Raoul Ombang's Family Funeral

Koffi “Raoul” Ombang, is our beloved drum and dance teacher for African Dance Vermont that holds weekly classes at the Brattleboro Stone Church.  Very sadly, Raoul lost his younger brother, Songolo Tresor, a dancer and singer from Salapoumbe, Cameroon, who dedicated his life to learning and sharing the cultural traditions of his people, and the wisdom and joy that it imparts. Last January he died at the age of 29 to what doctors say was malaria. Songolo had been a member of the Singo Dance Troupe since 2006 along with Raoul. Singo was founded by their close friend, Georgette Adjie who also teaches African dance in Brattleboro  Raoul and Georgette are special members of the Brattleboro community, sharing with us their culture, rooted in ancient traditions, in the African drum and dance classes on Wednesdays at the Stone Church. They also gift the greater community by traveling the world performing and teaching.  

Both Raoul and Georgette have been suffering many deaths among family and friends this past year, and are grieving immensely. In addition to the losses, there are financial pressures that add great stress. In the Cameroonian culture the funeral is held a year after the death and Raoul’s family now needs $1,000 more than what he has already sent them to have a proper funeral for Songolo. The money needs to be gathered by December 19th.

Please find it in your heart to give whatever amount you are able, to help lift a little of the weight they are carrying and for them to feel our gratitude and support.