Meet Desta, the dance team preserving East African culture at Yale

Desta, founded in 2022, is the only Ethiopian and Eritrean dance group at Yale University. Led by choreographer Meti Negewo, the group focuses on preserving East African culture through traditional dance. While centered on Ethiopian and Eritrean heritage, the repertoire also integrates influences from Somali and Sudanese traditions. The group maintains an inclusive philosophy, welcoming students who have no prior dance experience to join and learn. This initiative serves as a cultural hub for East African students on the Yale campus.