ADAKU - WESTAFRICAN CUISINE PRESENTS
UNFORTUNATLY POSTPONED TO SUMMER 24
DUE TO VISA REJECTION
UCHE
EXPERIENCE
20.09-06.10.23
VOL. 1
HOSTING
CHEF IKENNA AKWUEBUE (NGA)
FRANK OSEI AKA MUUD SWINGZ (GHA)
KESHIA LECONTE (SEN)
UCHE - in reference to the meaning of the Igbo word “Akọ n’ Uche” - the Senses, is a Sensory Culinary Journey, delving into the rich flavors and sensations of the modern West Africa. This immersive experience introduces the essence of the senses through food, while being accompanied by the musical talents of Muud Swingz, besed in Ghana. Set amidst the artistry of Keshia Leconte, whose origins trace to Senegal and France, the evening unfolds with an Afro-Avant Garde Tasting Menu curated by Chef Ikenna Akwuebue, from Nigeria, currently based in Ghana and a Drink Pairing of Alexandre Werren rooted in Benin, Togo and Switzerland.
ALLERGIES & DIET RESTRICTIONS: Let us know in advance if you have allergies (gluten & lactose) or dietary preferences (vegetarian, vegan) due to the prominence of meat and fish in West African cuisine. We'll try to find a suitable solution if meat or fish isn't an option.
COSTS: 165 CHF including five course menu, drink pairing, artist fee & association membership fee. Payment in cash & via TWINT.
To participate at the experience, you must be a member of the association Adaku – Westafrican Cuisine
LOCATION: We will reveal the exact Location in your booking confirmation.
Contributors to the UCHE experience include the talented lineup:Calvin Kweku Ayivie, Azu Baur, Io Baur, Naomi Adaku Biaduo, Beni Schmitz-Hübsch, David Hofmann, Nehima Ehigie,
Patrice el Dada, Alexandre Werren, Píkqó Walker da Silva, Raban Jacoby
CHEF IKENNA AKWUEBUE (NGA)
Chef Ikenna Akwuebue is an International Chef and Food Developer who’s true passion lies in showcasing the rich diverse edible culture of west Africa and its diaspora. Having grown up with Nigerian heritage and extensively traveled throughout West Africa during his formative years, Ike’s perspective on food and culture has been greatly influenced.
His formative years as a young chef started at Reddish Chronicles Lagos, Nigeria where he horned his culinary skills.
He is currently based in Accra Ghana where he consults for notable establishments like “Meet Me There “ and works as an culinary instructor at the School of culinary Arts Ghana. He also serves as an advisory for the Ghana Food Movement a sustainable food system intiative.
Chef Ikenna recently featured at the prestigious bbq festival in São Paulo CHURRASCADA”.Through his various roles, Ike continues to inspire and educate others about the culinary treasures of West Africa, fostering a deep appreciation for the region's gastronomic heritage.
MUUD SWINGZ (GHA)
Frank Osei, well known as Muud Swingz, is a Ghanaian born & based multidisciplinary creative artist, DJ & events curator. His uniquely diverse taste & style has quickly earned him recognition in the fast growing DJ culture in Accra, Ghana.
As an arts & cultural advocate with 6+ years experience in the creative subcultures of music, arts & entertainment, he brings a unique vision & style to his works. Through various art forms, he is constantly exploring new ways to express, connect & inspire people. Always striving to create immersive & unforgettable experiences through the power of music, arts & community.
Muud Swingz is also co-founder of community focused design collective, THE WEIRD CULT.Under this community, he has produced several pop-ups, workshops, collaborative events & interactive sessions, through which he influences & push new perspectives in Accra’s creative scene. He had collaborations with a number of music artistes & creatives brands in Ghana including Amaarae, Darkovibes, Joey B, Pure Akan, Ria Boss, Nana Danso (formerly ArtsoulKojo), The Slum studio, Afrodistrict collective, Allmycousins, Surf Ghana, Palm Moments and many more. He is also a resident on Oroko radio (Accra) & Theresnosignal radio (UK).
KESHIA LECONTE (SEN & FR)
Until the age of eight, Keshia Leconte lived in Dakar, Senegal, and then moved to Paris. She studied Visual Arts at the Panthéon Sorbonne. Her passion is influenced by her family: her father owned a Dakar art gallery, her mother worked with weavers, and her grandmother shared a love for sewing.
In 2018, Keshia made her debut at the Dakar Biennale, displaying paintings of whimsical characters with exaggerated features and clever, occasionally daring words.
Currently, Keshia Leconte is based in Zurich and is studying Textile Design in Lucerne.
ALEXANDRE WERREN (BEN & TGO & CH)
Alexandre Werren has roots in Togo, Benin, and Switzerland, while he grew up in Malaysia, France, and Switzerland. His nine-year bartending journey began in Manchester, where he spent four years honing his skills. His talent shone on a national stage when he secured a top-10 spot in the UK at a Rémy Martin cocktail competition.
In Zürich, he worked at Dante for four years, where he also contributed to the creation of the seasonal cocktail menu. Today, Alexandre's unique blend of cultural influences, refined in Manchester, elevated by competition success, and polished at Dante, continues to captivate the cocktail world and makes him the perfect match for crafting UCHE's Drink Pairing.