NationHouse

NationHouse Positive Action Center, private African - American school originally located at 770 Park Rd NW in Washington, D.C. I had the opportunity to attend this school from 1978 - 1991. Some of my dance teachers while I was a student at NationHouse include Mama Afia Nson Bonsu and Makini N.

NationHouse Anniversary, 1980s. Washington, DC

While, Ms. Afrika Abney was a middle school student at NationHouse, she had the opportunity to provide services. Ms. Abney gave away this dance outfit many years ago.

"Mama Afia Nson, art had always been somewhat of a family tradition and the driving force for every venture in her personal and professional life. Afia Nson Bonsu was born 1956 in Trenton, New Jersey. She relocated to the District of Columbia to transfer to Howard University from Mercer County College Fine Arts program after a 2-year hiatus. She created for academia, she created as an outlet, and she created as a means of income; selling jewelry and crafts at various festivals and art events. A mother of 2 sons, and a full time student, her determination, hard work, dedication and vision were recognized with a spot on the dean’s list. In 1978 upon arriving in the District, Afia began dancing with Wose' Dance Company under the direction of Aiedoo Holmes followed by Memory of African Dance Company under the direction of Djimo Kouyate until 2005.

She also performed briefly with Nation Liberation Arts Ensemble. Over the course of 30 years Afia Nson Bonsu has painted backdrops, constructed dance costumes, created approximately 150 pieces of wearable art, produced graphic tee designs for organizations and individuals, illustrated album covers, book covers and four children's books. She taught, created lesson plans, and directed pre-school through high school from 1978 through 2010.

In 1993 Afia produced a poster art coloring collection called 'Nationkolors'. She has produced artwork, textile and dance instruction for a youth summer program from 1979-1998. She served as an art, step and dance instructor for elementary students in the Washington DC metropolitan area from 1998- 2006. She is the official creator of the dance/step team 'Taratibu', founded in 1979; a program that has served the community, and contributed greatly to the art of step along the east coast.

She has conducted professional development sessions for educators, sewing workshops, and even life coaching sessions. In addition to her many partnerships with various organizations and her amazing work as a private seamstress, Afia also serves as assistant costume designer for select Caribbean carnival bands in Antigua, constructing wearable masks and headpieces. Afia has devoted every aspect of her life to her children. Though she has birthed 4, she has and continues to raise, inspire and influence children across communities. “Now that [her] children are grown”, Ms. Bonsu is actively reestablishing her art career. She currently manages and facilitates an acclaimed homeschool academy for infants and toddlers using art to produce original learning supplies. Her company, Rhythm-N-Flow LLC, has been in operation since 2011and shall be releasing the long-awaited and highly requested curriculum to be accompanied by earning supplies inspired by her original artwork. Afia Nson Bonsu has committed her life to serving others through her talents and creations."

"Makini Niliwambieni a.k.a. Mama Makin grew up in Trenton, NJ, where she began to study and perform African styles of dance as part of a revival in interests in African cultures that grew alongside the civil rights movement. In 1989 she moved to Washington, D.C., where she continues to choreograph, teach, and perform African styles of dance."

DANCE PERFORMANCES AT NATIONHOUSE

February 1, 1997. NationHouse, Washington, DC

August 16, 2009. NationHouse, Washington, DC with Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

August 14, 2011. NationHouse, Washington, DC with Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

Memory of African Culture - Baba Djimo

When Baba Djimo created Memory of African Culture, " a cultural arts and education organization based in Washington, D.C. since 1983", I was 7 years old and a student at NationHouse. "Baba Djimo Kouyate, a jali, oral historian and 149th generation of the Kouyate family of jali, historians and musicians, died in Washington, DC, on August 1. He was 57. An outstanding musician and singer as well as a warm and generous individual, Kouyate introduced many people to the regal beauty of the music and histories maintained by the jalis of west Africa. Since moving to Washington, DC, in 1983, he co-founded and directed Memory of African Culture, Inc., a cultural arts and education organization. Kouyate led Mamaya African Jazz ensemble and served as an Adjunct Lecturer of African Music and Ethnomusicology at the University of Maryland. He performed at festivals and events throughout the U.S. and toured with the National Council for Traditional Arts’ “Echoes of Africa” tour. In his...

Misinformation and Inaccuracies

Quote found on the Internet In a time characterized by misinformation and inaccuracies, it is crucial to clarify my professional offerings. Since 2016, I have not engaged in providing any dance performance services. Additionally, I have not conducted any dance classes since I was last hired as a professional dance consultant. Ensuring that you have the correct information is of utmost importance, as it helps maintain transparency and trust in my professional endeavors. I encourage you to take a moment to explore the content I have shared on my blog, which I established in June 2024. This platform serves as a repository of accurate information regarding my current activities and insights into the dance industry. By reviewing my posts, you will gain a clearer understanding of my professional journey and the reasons behind my current focus. Thank you for your attention to this matter. It is essential for me to communicate clearly and effectively with my audience, especia...

Cultivating Cultural Awareness

Cultivating Cultural Awareness. Digital art created on canvas. August 5, 2024. Afrika Abney This stunning digital art piece, created on canvas, is a beautiful representation of cultivating cultural awareness. The painting features a mesmerizing swirl of yellow and black, evoking a sense of movement and energy. I captured the essence of cultural diversity and the beauty of different influences coming together. The bold colors and dynamic composition make this artwork a powerful statement about the importance of recognizing and respecting cultural differences. The painting is a thought-provoking piece that encourages viewers to embrace cultural awareness and celebrate diversity. The use of digital art on canvas adds a modern twist to the traditional medium, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of culture and the arts. The swirling pattern in yellow and black is reminiscent of traditional African motifs, paying homage to the rich cultural heritage of the continent. This artwork serves as ...

In the field of dance consulting, the concept of respect

Quote found on the Internet “In the field of dance consulting, the concept of respect plays a pivotal role in fostering a productive and harmonious environment. It encompasses not only the acknowledgment of each dancer's unique talents and contributions but also the appreciation of diverse perspectives and experiences within the dance community. By cultivating an atmosphere of mutual respect, dance consultants can effectively guide their clients, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued, which ultimately enhances the overall creative process. Furthermore, respect in dance consulting extends beyond interpersonal relationships; it also involves honoring the rich history and cultural significance of various dance forms. Consultants must be mindful of the traditions and values that inform the practices of different styles, ensuring that their recommendations are not only effective but also culturally sensitive. By integrating respect into every aspect of their work, dance ...

Conversations and Services

Quote found on the Internet I am unaware of the conversations taking place, but I have not visited Malcolm X Park since 2015 and do not plan to return. Additionally, I have not offered any dance performance services since 2016. Furthermore, I would like to clarify that my blog, which I established in June 2024, does not allow for comments. I encourage readers to thoroughly engage with each post to gain a comprehensive understanding of the content. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Happy Holidays

Happy Holidays. Digital art created on canvas. November 23, 2024. Afrika Abney The holiday season has always been a time for warmth and connection, a cherished opportunity to gather among friends and loved ones. It's a season marked by the sharing of genuine memories and meaningful conversations, where the focus shifts away from gossip, manipulation, and the mind games that can often threaten to sabotage relationships. Instead, the spirit of the holidays emphasizes kindness and understanding, Reflecting on my own experiences during this season, I recall vividly how I spent my time providing both pro bono and paid services at local churches, serving meals to those in need. Each plate I handed out wasn’t just food; it was a moment of connection, a shared smile, a fleeting yet impactful memory etched in time. Alongside this, I poured my creativity into making homemade cards and gifting my artwork, each piece handcrafted with love to spread joy in simple yet profound ways. Eac...

The dance movement emerged in Washington, DC in 1988

Quote found on the Internet “The dance movement that emerged in Washington, D.C. in 1988 was a significant cultural phenomenon that reflected the vibrant artistic landscape of the time. This period was marked by a fusion of various dance styles, including hip-hop, jazz, and contemporary forms, which collectively contributed to a dynamic and innovative scene. The movement not only showcased the talents of local dancers but also attracted attention from national and international audiences, establishing D.C. as a pivotal hub for dance and performance art. The 1988 dance movement in Washington, D.C. also played a crucial role in fostering community engagement and social change. Many performances addressed pressing social issues, using dance as a medium for expression and activism. This era not only celebrated artistic creativity but also served as a platform for dialogue and reflection on the cultural and political landscape of the time, leaving a lasting legacy that continues...

Dance Experiences

Dance experiences. Digital art created on canvas. August 4, 2024. Afrika Abney The painting symbolized the joy and energy that dance can bring to social gatherings, performances, and personal reflections. It serves as a metaphor for the multifaceted nature of dance, which encompasses storytelling, expression, and connection. Just as the heart conveys deep emotions, dance can narrate stories through movement, allowing performers to express their innermost thoughts and feelings. The fluidity of dance can evoke a range of emotions, from the tranquility of a slow interpretive piece to the exhilaration of a fast-paced routine. This artwork encapsulates the essence of these experiences, inviting viewers to reflect on their own connections to dance and the stories it can tell. Furthermore, the painting encourages a sense of community and social interaction, much like dance itself. Dance experiences often bring people together, fostering connections and shared moments that transcend language ...

Dance Organizations

In the past, I have successfully secured job opportunities by submitting a detailed curriculum vitae that highlighted my educational background, work experience, and various projects I have completed. My CV effectively showcased my skills, qualifications, and achievements, making it easier for potential employers to assess my suitability for the role. By providing a clear and comprehensive overview of my professional history, I was able to stand out among other candidates and secure interviews for positions that aligned with my qualifications and career goals. Crafting a well-organized and professional curriculum vitae has been instrumental in helping me secure employment opportunities and advance in my chosen field. Dedicated and results-driven professional with a strong track record in securing job opportunities through expertly crafted resumes that effectively highlight educational achievements, relevant work experience, and successful project completions. Proven ability to present...

Meetings with potential clients

Dynamic professional dance consultant has made numerous changes in providing services. I have not scheduled any meetings with any potential client since 2020. For inquiries regarding my services, please contact me at afrikaabneydanceconsult@gmail.com. “A potential client meeting is the first interaction between a business and a potential client. The purpose of the meeting is to establish a foundation for future collaboration by understanding the client's needs and presenting the company's offerings. A potential client might be reasonably defined as all those individuals or companies that might possibly become a client at some point. One often considers potential clients when marketing or advertising, and these individuals are owed no protection with respect to conflicts of interest.”

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