Cultural bridging

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“Cultural bridging in the workplace can help create a cognitive connection between people from different cultures, allowing them to understand each other's similarities and differences. This can lead to productive dialogue and learning.

Here are some ways to bridge cultural gaps in the workplace:

Develop cultural awareness: Take time to learn about your colleagues' and business partners' cultural backgrounds.

Recognize differences: Acknowledge cultural and individual differences, as well as your own behaviors.

Be respectful: Show respect and speak clearly.

Adapt communication styles: Consider how your communication style might differ from others.

Build relationships: Involve the whole group and seek feedback.

Be transparent: Clarify things and ask for clarification when needed.

Use technology wisely: Consider how technology can be used to help.”

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Passionate and dedicated arts professional with deep roots in Washington, D.C. since the 1980s, focused on enriching community culture through innovative art initiatives and impactful exhibitions. Proven track record in curating memorable artistic experiences and leading community-driven projects that inspire and uplift. Recognized with multiple awards and grants from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities for significant contributions to the arts. Demonstrated expertise in strategic analysis, client relationship management, and innovative strategy development. Notable accomplishments include successful grant proposals, management of popular arts events and festivals, and featured artwork on promotional materials. Experienced in various educational roles and program administration, with a commitment to using creativity to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding within diverse communities.

Selected Key Skills:

Strategic analysis
Innovative strategy development
Client relationship management

Selected Accomplishments:

Art featured on brochure and book cover

Successful grant proposal writing

Management of popular arts events and festivals

Multiple grants from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities

Nominated for various awards in the arts industry

Selected Professional Experiences:

Program Administration, Washington, DC. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers and Esther Productions, Inc

Responsible for hosting, setting up tables, clean up, interior decorating, stage designing, and recruiting participants. Sounds of Hope at Potter's House (2012), The Gift (October 2015; October 2016, and October 21, 2017); Building Family in the 21st Century (June 2016); Painting Your Future Bright: A Sip and Paint for Girls Ages 13 - 17 (March 16, 2019); and PaintSpiration: An Interactive Workshop designed for girls ages 13 through 17 (May 4, 2019).

Arts Specialist, Washington, DC. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC. 2018

Designed and taught visual arts classes, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.
Prepared and distributed weekly progress reports to ensure clear communication with the Program Manager.
Developed tailored lesson plans for diverse skill levels, fostering a positive learning environment.

Substitute Teacher, Washington, DC. DC International School. 2016 - 2017

Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans.

Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans, fostering a productive environment.
Adapted quickly to diverse environments, maintaining student engagement and continuity of learning.
Substituted for the Spanish Art Teacher, ensuring seamless delivery of curriculum and learning objectives.
Reinforced learning objectives, promoting a positive and productive classroom atmosphere.

After School Program Teacher, Washington, DC. JEAP. 2015

Organized engaging activities, prepared materials, and assisted students with assignments, enhancing learning.
Reported to management, ensuring clear communication and smooth operations within the program.
Helped students with assignments, leading to improved academic performance and confidence.
Collaborated with the team to create a supportive learning environment, fostering student development.

African Dance Instructor, Washington, DC. Roda Movements. Takoma Park, M.D.. February 2015 - February 2015.

Taught West African dances to a group of young children aged 7-9. Integrated historical context into lessons, conducted warm-up sessions, developed energetic dance routines, and achieved measurable improvement in students' dance techniques and cultural knowledge.

Education:

Corcoran School of the Arts - 1997

Bell Multicultural High School - 1993

Self-Value Inspiration

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Knowledge and ideas

“Knowledge at work is the knowledge, skills, and experiences that employees have that help them solve problems, make decisions, and be creative. It can also refer to the process of sharing and storing that knowledge within an organization.” “Ideas at work builds on the belief that people are special, can best unleash their creative and problem solving potential when they have purpose and autonomy, and work together in a culture of continuous improvement and learning. With a good dose of competence, energy and fun.” Quote found on the Internet As a consultant, the knowledge and ideas I share are rooted in my comprehensive background and experiences within the consulting industry. This foundation allows me to provide valuable perspectives that are informed by real-world applications and challenges faced by organizations. My approach is not merely theoretical; it is shaped by practical insights gained through years of working with diverse clients across various sectors....

The complexities of identity

“The complexities of identity are integrating one's past, present, and future into a cohesive, unified sense of self is a complex task that begins in adolescence and continues for a lifetime. Identity in the workplace can be complex and have significant implications for workplace culture. Here are some ways identity can impact the workplace: Intersectionality A person's identity can be a combination of overlapping identities, such as race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, age, religion, and regional background. This can lead to a disconnect between how a person views themselves and how others view them. For example, someone may experience both privilege and oppression, or multiple forms of disadvantage. Unconscious bias Leaders bring their own worldviews, shaped by their identities, into the workplace, which can reflect their values and beliefs in the corporate culture.” The complexities of identity. Digital art created on canvas. August 9, 2024. Afr...

Twilight Serenity

Twilight Serenity. Digital art created on canvas. August 14, 2024. Afrika Abney Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this stunning painting, where a captivating blue and pink sky unfolds before your eyes. Each stroke of the virtual brush has been meticulously crafted to bring the heavens to life, showcasing a harmonious blend of soft blues and gentle pinks that evoke a sense of calm and serenity. The clouds, delicately painted, float gracefully across the canvas. The soothing palette of colors in this painting creates an atmosphere that is both inviting and reflective. The gentle transition from the cool blues to the warm pinks captures the essence of a peaceful evening sky, where the sun bids farewell and the stars prepare to emerge.

Scarlet Symphony

Scarlet Symphony. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney This abstract painting showcases a dynamic interplay of red and orange hues, masterfully blended to evoke a sense of warmth and vitality. The vibrant colors dance across the canvas, drawing the viewer into a world where passion and creativity reign supreme. Each brushstroke seems to pulse with energy, inviting you to explore the depths of the composition and discover the emotions that lie within. The title "Scarlet Symphony" perfectly encapsulates the essence of this artwork, suggesting a harmonious orchestration of colors that resonate with the viewer. The bold reds symbolize strength and determination, while the fiery oranges add a layer of enthusiasm and joy. “Enthusiasm and joy in the workplace can lead to positive outcomes for individuals, teams, and organizations. Positive emotions like enthusiasm and joy can improve work performance and help employees feel deeply engaged in their work. Enthusiasm can...

Results-driven grant writer

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Results-driven grant writer with a strong track record of securing funding for arts initiatives. Since beginning my grant writing journey as a college student in 1995, I successfully obtained the prestigious D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities’ Arts Education Grant for the Kuumba Arts and Crafts Program and the Young Artist Grant for Enhancing Our Imaginations in 2003. Adept at crafting compelling proposals and engaging in strategic outreach, I excel in collaborating with stakeholders to maximize the impact of funded workshops. Passionate about advancing arts education and nurturing creativity through effective funding solutions. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Grant Writer. Kuumba Arts and Crafts Program funded by D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities. 1995 – 1998. Successfully applied for and wrote grant proposals for the Arts Education Grant Program, resulting in significant funding for the Kuumba Arts and Crafts Program. - Engaged with com...

Multiple Projects

Spectrum Serenity. Digital art created on canvas. August 12, 2024. Afrika Abney As a self-employed consultant and independent contractor, I find myself juggling various projects that serve as my primary source of income. Each endeavor I undertake not only showcases my skills and expertise but also acts as a vital channel through which I can secure paid work. This dynamic environment allows me to explore diverse opportunities while honing my craft in different areas. The nature of my work as an independent contractor means that I am constantly engaged in multiple projects simultaneously. These projects are not just tasks to complete; they are essential vehicles that facilitate my earning potential. By navigating through various assignments, I can adapt to the ever-changing demands of the market, ensuring that I remain competitive and relevant in my field. Embracing the role of a s...

The act of blogging

Blogging has been a crucial part of my career journey since I started as a consultant at 15. I realized the importance of sharing my insights with a wider audience, leading me to start my own blog in 2017. The act of blogging has significantly enriched my professional life and through this platform, I have the opportunity to explore various subjects related to consulting, while also receiving feedback and engaging in dialogue with my readers. This interaction not only enhances my understanding of the topics I cover but also inspires me to continue evolving as a consultant and a writer, ensuring that my contributions remain relevant and impactful.

Skyward Harmony

Skyward Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. August 15, 2024. Afrika Abney Looking out from my window, I was greeted by clouds drifting lazily across the sky, while a solitary bird soared gracefully above. The scene sparked a wave of inspiration within me, prompting me to reach for my digital palette. I carefully chose a variety of blue hues, blending them with soft whites to capture the essence of the sky and the fleeting beauty of the bird in flight. With each stroke of my virtual brush, I began to translate the atmospheric beauty before me onto my digital canvas. The cool blues danced harmoniously with the gentle whites, creating a sense of depth and movement that mirrored the clouds and the bird's elegant trajectory.

Mr. David C. Miller presenter

Esther Productions Inc., The Black Student Fund and Tenley-Friendship Library present a special edition of MIDNIGHTROSE: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose on Feb. 8, 2025 from 11 am to 1pm for the entire family. For further questions, please send them to midnightrosereadingseries@gmail.com . https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/special-black-history-month-midnightrose-a-reading-series-of-poetry-and-prose-focusing-on-childrens-literature "Baltimore native, David C. Miller, has received international acclaim for Dare to Be King: What If the Prince Lives . A Survival Workbook for African American Males, a thought-provoking, 52-week curriculum teaching adolescent males how to survive and thrive in toxic environments. Miller is a Ph.D. Candidate in the School of Social Work at Morgan State University with a primary concentration on Black Fatherhood. Miller has written several children’s books, including Chef Toussaint , Khalil’s Way , Brooklyn’s Finest: The Greene Fa...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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