ìpọ̀sìn’s peace – Break the Algorithm

Rotterdam-based collective ìpọ̀sìn’s peace is set to bring an electrifying Afrofuturistic club night to Break the Algorithm, a multidisciplinary event co-organised by WORM and the Amarte Foundation on December 13. The night marks the culmination of their three-month residency, during which participants have refined and brought their creative ideas to fruition. Discover the vision behind this emerging collective, their creative journey, and what they have in store for this event and beyond.

What inspired the formation of ìpọ́sìn’s peace, and how did the collective come together?

There simply weren’t enough QTBIPOC spaces in Rotterdam, and that’s what april (our founder) initially wanted to create. Along the way, the rest of us joined, each bringing our own drive and passion to build something truly inclusive for our community.

The name “ìpọ́sìn” comes from Yoruba meaning “outcast.” How did reclaiming this word shape the mission and vision of your collective?

As a Nigerian and someone who’s always felt like an outcast, it made sense to combine the two. Reclaiming the word represents owning that identity and celebrating it. We’re also moving away from the dominance of the English language- it doesn’t have to be easily searchable or for everyone. This name is an ode to our culture. If you know, you know.

What role does Rotterdam play in shaping ìpọ́sìn’s peace? How does the city influence the kind of spaces you’re building?

Rotterdam is our home. We were born and raised here, so naturally, this is where we want to build our spaces. It’s a big city with a lot of QTBIPOC individuals, but not enough places where we feel truly seen or safe. That’s what we’re working to change.

Your club night concept at WORM is a significant part of your project. How do you see music and nightlife as a way to bring QTBIPOC individuals together in celebration and solidarity?

Music and dance are central to our culture—both Black and queer. It’s in our blood, in our heritage. We celebrate through rhythm, through movement. Clubbing and nightlife create a natural space for this, where the beats and genres the DJs play allow us to release and express. It’s automatic: we move, we connect, and we celebrate our existence.

What is Afrofuturism for you?

Afrofuturism is about how we see Black people in the future. It’s daring to imagine a different world—centering pan-Africanism, anti-colonialism, and intersectionality. It’s about creating worlds where Black people are thriving, free from the restraints of borders, (neo)colonialism and oppression.

Three things that make your collective feel like home are…

Safety, recognition, and creativity. 

Where would you like to perform next?

We’re looking to collaborate with more anarchist and radically Black spaces. Spaces that move against borders, where all intersections within Black queerness are welcomed and celebrated. 

Come & dance the night away with us on the 13th of December!

Follow ìpọ̀sìn’s peace on socials here.

Interview by Kacper Nożewski
Visuals by ìpọ̀sìn’s peace