==:: Watoto De Afrika ::==

Reflecting the love that all children have for performing arts activities and the rich and historical musical culture of African American people, the Watoto De' Afrika (Swahili for "children of Africa") performing arts program was formed.

The program uses a variety of Afro-centric performing arts and literary styles, including blues, jazz, gospel, Negro spiritual, contemporary Afro-centric movement, and Black poetic composition and expression, to introduce students to the historical exeriences of their ancestors. Watoto program youth have their unique experience of singing, dancing and performing their way through history, an approach that improves their self image and teaches them to appreciate their cultural heritage. To date, more than 3,000 children have had their lives positively impacted by the Watoto programs.

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR
Donald O'Conner
Donald O'Conner has over 26 years teaching experience which includes youth 3 to 27 years of age. He holds a BA in Music Education from Langston University, Masters of Divinity from Vanderbilt University and a Certificate of Completion in Non-Profit Management from Fundraising School at the University of Indiana. Under his leadership, the Watoto program has expanded it's reach to include students in 11 cities. In addition to his academic credibility, Mr. O'Conner has an impressive music resume, which includes collaborations with such artists as Chaka Khan, Marvin Gaye and Earth, Wind and Fire. His extensive travel research and study in the area of Black music history and Afro Musicology (music influenced by African culture) has afforded him the opportunity to appear as a part of BBC's most recent documentary "The Story of Gospel Music". His message is clear and simple: education is the only way out of their circumstances.

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