HOW WE STARTED



Kuumba Fest began in 1989 as an off shoot of Shule Ya Busura Na Umoja (SYBU) - swahili for the School of Foresight and Unity. This cultural art and heritage program was designed to teach young people about African American heritage , history and culture. The program used Edutainment as a means of reaching youth who didn't respond to traditional intervention and support methods.

In 1993,the celebration of the work with the youth and families begin to grow from a one night 10 youth and families to a 4 day celebration of youth and family empowerment. The power of the arts had proven itself as a viable tool in bringing about change. Dajahn A Blevins and Pamela Riely the Urban Warriors, were invited to house the annual celebration at the San Diego Repertory Theatre. It began in Horace Mann, Offarell, Gomphers and SCPA, Community Actors Theater MLK Park and Jackie Robinson YMCA. The leadership of the San Diego Repertory Theater gave the celebration a home.



Kuumba Fest has grown into San Diego's premier Black History Month celebration. A night of positive images, a day of positive challenges, and an evening of spiritual celebrations.The night of positive images consist of art and exotic cultural items in the African Market place beautiful foods sights and sounds. A parade of history, a Royal Court with strong warriors and beautiful princesses creating a backdrop for honoring community role models and providing drama, music dance and enlightenment. A day of Challenges created for the youth who are the heart and foundation of the celebration. Educational Workshops, African Market place,Youth play, speech competition, town hall meeting, Hip Hop dance showcase and battle. Poetry slams, and also Late Night Live - Atribute to the Apollo Theatre. The evening of spiritual celebrations consist of the African market place, entertainment. A Taste of Soul features top caterers and procurers of cuisine and cultural food.





\

Peace be upon you


Home