Children are our future...

"Teaching the kids about my art in this country, for me, is like being the bridge that connects two towns separated by a treacherous river.

In this world, each human being who has gained knowledge throughout their life should also give back to life. Children are our future and to teach them about my culture involves more than the dance steps, drum rhythms and body movements that I share with them. It's an opportunity for me to educate them about another culture that is integrated in the world. Today, through me, the kids can see what happens in my village and country. So, for me, to be standing in front of the children, I feel like the bridge between two towns. Sharing my knowledge with them is like watering the garden for its survival. It's a way to immortalize this culture because the human being can pass away, but the traditions remain alive through the voice of others."
- Biboti Ouikahilo

An example of a dance and drum program for children would include a 1-hour dance class followed by a 45-minute drum class. The instructor would share with the children the dance and drum story, including the

• Different names
• Origin
• Meaning
• When and why
• How the drums are made

The parents can also be involved by participating with their child in the dance or drum classes. Each class is presented as an open forum where the children and adults are able to ask the instructor questions about Africa and its traditions.

"Teaching the children about my art provides them with a multicultural experience that they can share in the future."