Seychellois living in France celebrate National Day in Paris |27 June 2015

Seychellois living in France gathered in Paris last weekend for an advance celebration of Seychelles’ first National Day celebrations on June 29, also the day of our Independence.

The event was organised by the Association Aldabra, which groups Seychellois living in France. Also present at the celebrations was Seychelles’ ambassador to France, Bernard Shamlaye.

Association Aldabra was created on March 14, 2015 by three Seychellois to promote the Seychellois culture in France through various activities.

They are Richard Gertrude as chairman and founder; Rita Romain Richez (secretary, public relations and treasurer) and Johana Collet, project coordinator.

The national day celebrations was the first event organised by the association. It was also aimed at promoting the first Seychellois association in France. There was a dinner dance in Paris where local dishes cooked by Seychellois themselves were on offer. Samoosas, chilli cakes, octopus salad, pickle, stew were some of the delicacies featured on the menu. Dessert was composed of banana and coconut cakes.

Traditional music and songs such as the moutya, kanmtole, sega accompanied by well known international ones, highlighted the evening.

Other events are planned by the association all with the aim of promoting Seychelles in France. It is getting the support of partners and sponsors like the Seychelles Tourism Board, Potpourri, Sipay, Coral Models, Radyo Sesel, Kaz Kreol, Quatre Epices, among others.

Aldabra Association is based at 26, Rue des Bougimonts, 78130, Les Mureaux, France. It can be contacted on email asso.aldabra@gmail.com and telephone 0614902458.

The accompanying photographs show highlights of the celebrations.

Compiled by Marylene Julie