Alafia Kids!

Alafia Kids will be a vibrant addition to the Alafia Afro-Cuban Dance Festival, offering 50 children aged 6-11 a unique opportunity to engage with Afro-Cuban culture through a three-day immersive program. Combining dance, music, crafts, and storytelling, the workshops will culminate in an outdoor showcase for families and the public, celebrating the children’s learning and achievements.

A core focus is the exploration of Orisha stories from the Lucumi/Regla de Ocha faith, passed down through generations. These stories, originating from the Yoruba people, represent resilience and the preservation of cultural identity through religious syncretism. The program will also develop the children’s concentration, physical and mental health, teamwork, and creativity while introducing them to Afro-Cuban traditions and the Spanish language.

Led by Luanda Pau and Yma de Almeida, with music instruction from award-winning musician Hammadi Valdez, Alafia Kids ensures a comprehensive cultural experience. Supported by volunteers, the program promises to deepen the children’s appreciation for Afro-Cuban culture and contribute to the Black History 365 calendar.