Why I taught the arts?

When I was a little girl, I wanted to pursue a career in the arts. I choose the arts as a vehicle and outlet for me to express myself through using the arts. If it was not for the love of the arts and I had the opportunity to teach visual arts, literary arts, and dance throughout my community in the past. It gave me the opportunity to express myself as it is related to bullying and culture, especially to minority race.

I taught various art forms such as collage design, abstract painting, drawing, poetry, and dance to children, youth and dance.

SELECTED PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES

ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018. Plan and present visual arts classes for students of varying backgrounds and abilities , create a safe, structured, and positive environment for each student; and prepare and disseminate a weekly report for the Program Manager, Justin Love.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed and co-managed select classrooms; provided instructions according to prepared lesson plans; ensure classroom environment that promoted active learning while working with students to reinforce learning objectives as defined by the school; and performed other assigned duties.

AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Roda Movements, Takoma Park, M.D.. 2015 - 2015. Taught a group of young children ages 7 - 9. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical context for each dance with a 1/2 hour warm-up, and energetic dance movements. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical within the context for each dance.

WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. M.O.M.I.E.S TLC and YWDEP, Washington, DC. SUMMER 2015 Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. Provided West African dance instruction to a group of students for a Summer Camp program such as M.O.M.I.E.S. TLC and Y.W.D.E.P. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical context for each dance with a 1/2 hour warm-up, and energetic dance movements. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical within the context for each dance. Also provided instruction for students at several other organizations including Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. (July 3, 2013 - July 17, 2013) Hyde Addison Elementary School (May 18, 2013)

SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. August 2013. Provided dance instruction to students grades 9 -12 in the absence of the studio teacher for the World Intensive Summer Camp.

SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. 2013 - 2015. Provided dance instruction to children and adults in the absence of the studio teacher. Taught Samba Fusion - All Levels and Afro Beats - All Levels.

AFROBEAT, a dance class that includes a fusion of modern and African upbeat combinations to Nigerian music, inspired by FELA! the musical.

Samba Fusion, a dance workout that brings the benefits of basic samba/axe drills and steps to tone muscles.

SUMMER ACADEMY CAMP PART- TIME ELECTIVE ART TEACHER. Higher Achievement, Washington, DC - Metro. July 1, 2013 - August 1, 2013 (Center City PCS - Capitol Hill Campus); and 2003-2004 (Bruce Monroe Elementary School). Created and implemented a visual arts lesson plan for summer program, specific to 5th - 8th grade students of varying backgrounds and abilities. Students gained knowledge and dexterity in specific forms of visual arts, including abstract painting.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. December 2013 - 2014. Managed and co-managed select classrooms; provided instructions according to prepared lesson plans; ensure classroom environment that promoted active learning while working with students to reinforce learning objectives as defined by the school; and performed other assigned duties.

AFFILIATED TEACHING ARTIST. Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT), Washington, DC. October 2012 - May 2013.Planned and presented visual arts classes for first and second grade students of varying backgrounds and abilities , integrating literacy fundamentals within the context of the classroom instruction; created a safe, structured, and positive environment for each student; established my own classroom rules for each student to follow; and prepared and disseminated a weekly report for the Program Manager, Laurie Ascoli.

SUBSTITUTE AFRICAN DANCE PRE - PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR. The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW), Washington, D.C. 2010 - 2012.Provided West African Dance Classes for the Pre-Professional Program targeted for ages 12-21 on Wednesdays.

PAST VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS

Kuumba Arts and Crafts Program (1995-1998). D.C. Department of Recreation (Emery Recreation Center, Parkview Recreation Center, Hamilton Recreation Center and Upshur Recreation Center) from 1997 - 1998 and A - T Seban Mesut (1995- 1998). Sponsored by Ms. Afrika Abney and funded by the D.C. Commission of the Arts, Arts Education Grant Program

Kuumba Expressions Visual Art Workshops (2015 and 2016).Culture Coffee on January 31, 2015 and Potter's House on May 16, 2016 and May 23, 2016. Sponsored by Culture Coffee, Potter's House and Esther Productions, Inc Art Enablers.

SELECTED LITERARY WORKSHOP

Enhancing Our Imaginations funded by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. Takoma Park Library, Washington, DC. 2003

COMMUNITY CAREER DAY VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS

2016. Eliot (invited by Ms. Ophelia Morgan).

1996. Calvin Coolidge High School (invited by Ms. Angela Cook)

COMMUNITY CAREER DAY DANCE WORKSHOP

2016. Roots Public Charter School

When do you feel the most courageous?

Each day, I find myself embodying a profound sense of courage that shapes my actions and decisions. Over the span of more than thirty years, I have encountered a multitude of situations that demanded bravery, often pushing me to tap into my inner strength. These experiences have not only tested my limits but have also reinforced the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Reflecting on the past three decades, I can recall countless moments where I was compelled to summon this vital quality. Whether it was standing up for my beliefs or making difficult choices, each instance has contributed to a deeper understanding of what it means to be truly courageous. As I continue to embrace this journey, I recognize that courage is not merely the absence of fear but rather the determination to act despite it. The lessons learned from my experiences have shaped my character and instilled a sense of confidence that propels me forward. With every challenge I face, I am reminded that...

Brown Resilience

Brown Resilience. Digital art created on canvas. October 6, 2024. Afrika Abney According to my research, “ the color brown represents resilience encapsulating qualities such as bravery, perseverance, and hopefulness.”

East of the Anacostia River

““East of the River” was simply a geographical description without particular significance. But, it later became how some describe the neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River — often with a negative connotation. During the 1930s and 1940s, land development of the area continued alongside increased racial diversification of the region. At the end of World War II, white flight into suburban Maryland and Virginia resulted in a majority-Black Anacostia. The Anacostia River watershed in the District of Columbia and Maryland is home to more than 800,000 people, 43 species of fish and some 200 species of birds. The watershed has been heavily urbanized over time, losing 6,500 acres of wetlands and 70% of its forest cover. Over the past four centuries the Anacostia has been given many names: the Eastern Branch of the Potomac, the other national river, the dirtiest river in the nation, the forgotten river.” I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals and famil...

Warmth of the Season

Warmth of the Season. Digital art created on canvas. December 12, 2024. Afrika Abney I found various instrumental Christmas music on Youtube and television that creates a sense of warmth.

Ideal Conversations

Ideal Conversations. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney The vibrant yellow hues used in this artwork evoke feelings of warmth, happiness, and creativity. The monochromatic color scheme adds a sense of unity and harmony to the piece. The artist's choice of yellow as the dominant color in this painting is no coincidence. Yellow is often associated with feelings of joy, optimism, and enlightenment. This yellow painting with a yellow background is not just a piece of art, but a symbol of hope and happiness. The use of vibrant yellow hues and the monochromatic color scheme create a sense of unity and harmony. Committed to fostering community engagement through the arts, I excel in facilitating discussions around art, dance, and poetry. My work not only showcases creativity but also serves as a platform for meaningful conversations that enrich the cultural fabric of the community. An ideal conversation at work can be effective and meaningful, and can help you le...

Inaccurate information and Past professional experiences

I was 6 years old when the above photo was taken of me. At that time in 1982, I was a student at NationHouse. I have thrown the clothes away years later. Since many people obviously have inaccurate information and are under the impression that I am hiring people. Let me take a moment to offer some brief insight on my past professional experiences. Since my employment with Jubilee Enterprises in 2021, I have not engaged in any hiring activities. My last experience in recruiting was in 2016, when I facilitated a series of visual art workshops that took place in 2016, which were focused on skill development rather than recruitment. I urge those who may be attempting to tarnish my reputation or undermine my future prospects to reconsider their actions. Spreading inaccurate information is neither constructive nor justified, and it only serves to create unnecessary confusion and harm. It is essential to maintain a professional environment where facts are respected and communicated accuratel...

Full Moon Essence

Full Moon Essence. Digital art created on canvas. October 19, 2024. Afrika Abney Where did you read that my digital abstract is about relationships or dates? Nowhere, when I create my digital abstract painting, I have composed something about the abstract digital painting. If I did not add anything, then, you should use logic to conclude what it is about. Full Moon Essence composed of shades of yellow and blue.

MIDNIGHTROSE: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose features Mr. Kenneth Carroll, Ms. Elizabeth Bruce and Ms.Sasa Aakil

“MidnightRose serves as a vibrant platform that highlights the diverse voices of multigenerational and multicultural writers from the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond. This initiative is brought to life by Esther Productions Inc., in collaboration with The Institute for African American Writing and The Black Student Fund. The series aims to celebrate the literary talents within the community, showcasing a variety of poetic and prose works that reflect the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that define the region. Attendees of MidnightRose can expect to engage with a dynamic array of award-winning poets and authors, each bringing their unique narratives and artistic expressions to the forefront. The event not only serves as a performance space but also as a gathering that fosters dialogue and connection among writers and audiences alike. By immersing oneself in the powerful words and stories shared during the series, participants are invited to explore themes o...

Vibrant Visions of Faith

Vibrant Visions of Faith. Digital art created on canvas. November 26, 2024. Afrika Abney With the principle of faith, I am fortunate that I graduated from Bell Multicultural High School in 1993 because I felt alone, depressed, traumatized, isolated and discriminated against every time that I stepped inside the school from 1991 - 1993. The colors gold and shades of yellow are deliberately selected to depict optimism, while black represents faith.

Social Media Marketing

Since 2009, I have been immersed in the realm of social media marketing, dedicating my efforts to providing comprehensive services in this dynamic field. Throughout the years, I have refined my expertise and cultivated a profound understanding of diverse social media platforms. This journey has empowered me to devise effective marketing strategies that are specifically tailored to address the distinct requirements of my clients. My extensive background in social media has equipped me with the ability to anticipate industry trends and adapt to the continuously changing digital landscape. At present, I am excited to promote an upcoming event titled MidnightRose: A Reading Series of Poetry & Prose, scheduled for September 14, 2024, at the Tenley Library. This captivating event is set to take place from 2 PM to 4 PM, offering attendees an opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of literature. For those seeking additional details or having any questions, I encourage ...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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