Skip to main content

Cultural bridging

 Quote found on the Internet


“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.”


Quote found on the Internet 


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




Popular posts from this blog

Warmth of Experience

    “The intentional incorporation of orange-red in illustrating life experiences can significantly enrich the narrative journey, creating a vibrant canvas that accentuates both personal and professional achievements. This particular hue, with its energetic and warm qualities, invites contemplation and conversation, allowing for a more profound grasp of the various experiences that shape our lives. By using such a striking color, the storytelling becomes not just a recounting of events but an immersive exploration of emotions and insights.  My own journey has been marked by a series of impactful experiences, including the persistent challenges posed by racism and discrimination, as well as the significant milestones of graduating from both high school and college. Each of these moments has contributed to my personal growth and understanding of the world around me. The struggles I faced with prejudice have not only shaped my identity but have also fueled my determination t...

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. 

Twilight Illumination

  Twilight Illumination.Digital art created on canvas. December 4, 2024. Afrika Abney 

Christmas Classics

  Christmas Classics. Digital art created on canvas. December 10, 2024. Afrika Abney  I have been watching numerous Christmas movies on television. Some of them include The Christmas Calendar, Christmas Challenge, Love on a retreat, Christmas Dance, A Holiday for Love, Naughty or Nice (2012), Christmas Venue, Husband for Christmas, A Christmas Proposal, Debbie Macomber's Trading Christmas, A Merry Single Christmas (2022) and Merry Kissmass (2015). 

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...

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.”

Commitment and directions

  My attention is not directed towards any previous years, as they are behind me. I possess a comprehensive understanding of my professional background and experiences. Currently, my primary focus lies in developing my branding blog, creating digital art, and delivering exceptional services to my client.  It is essential to clarify that any misconceptions or technical errors regarding my current status should be addressed promptly. As of today, August 17, 2024, I am fully engaged in my own endeavors. My commitment to my work is unwavering, and I strive to maintain a clear vision for my future initiatives. I am dedicated to branding and digital art. My professional journey is characterized by a forward-thinking mindset, allowing me to concentrate on the present and future opportunities. By prioritizing my client needs and enhancing my creative output, I aim to establish a strong presence in my field.

DC Native with hands on experience

Quote found on the Internet Quote found on the Internet Washington, D.C. Native with hands-on experience in curation and exhibition management. Invited by Principal Ms. Maria Tukeva to participate in a school assembly, showcasing commitment to the arts from an early age. Exhibited works at notable venues such as the New Harlem Gallery and Wisteria ArtSpace, while actively participating in the Congressional Art Competition under Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton. Served as an Art Curator at New Harlem Gallery, where I successfully organized and installed diverse exhibitions, significantly boosting visitor engagement and promoting emerging artists. Proven ability to create compelling narratives through meticulous planning and collaboration with artists. Holds a High School Diploma from Bell Multicultural High School, demonstrating a solid foundation in artistic endeavors. January 1992 - Invited to be apart of a school assembly by Principal Ms. Maria Tukeva 1992 - 1993 - Exhibited at ...

Esther Productions Inc., in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing presents two authors Sharon Bell Mathis and Brian Gilmore

   Esther Productions Inc., in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing presents two authors Sharon Bell Mathis and Brian Gilmore on Mar 16, 2024 from 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM at 3660 Alabama Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020, USA. "Sharon Bell Mathis (born 1937) is an American librarian and author who has written books mainly for children and young adults. Mathis was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She started writing at an early age, and her love of reading was fostered by her parents. Her mother, a poet, encouraged her to write. In 1958, she earned a degree in Sociology from Morgan State College and, in 1975, went on to earn a master's in Library Science from the Catholic University of America. Mathis has written many books for children and young adults, and has received many accolades in her career. Her book Ray Charles, a nonfiction biography of Ray Charles, received the Coretta Scott King Award. The Hundred Penny Box received a Newber...

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.