OUR PROGRAMS
SOIREE CULTUREL
“Our diversity is the beauty and the strength of our communities.” - Salemu D. Alimasi
“Times change. Values don’t.” - Thomas Claiborne
“When an elderly person dies, a library burns down.” - Amadou Hampâté Bâ
Join our DRC Heritage Month 2024. Post to be added
We are tasked with preserving and transmitting the values of our culture. Congo and Africa possess riches, values, and historical accounts greater than any monument or history book. The culture and heritage of Congo and Africa are safeguarded by our elders, who are the living repositories of our community's knowledge. Our sociology, history, pharmacopoeia, meteorology, science, hunting, fishing, and way of life are all preserved by these traditionalists. Sadly, as these elders age, there is no plan for succession. It's imperative that we prevent the loss of our culture with their passing. The death of an elder is tantamount to the destruction of our cultural wealth. No institution or wealth can replace our precious culture if it is lost due to neglect.
Therefore, on behalf of the D.R. Congo and in the name of science and culture, we advocate for the urgent safeguarding of oral traditions as monuments of Congolese and African culture and values.
The Soirée Culturelle program is dedicated to recording and documenting the oral histories of community elders to preserve our culture, traditions, and guide future generations. The Soirée Culturelle program serves as a bridge between generations, uniting us toward a common goal of preserving, protecting, and transmitting the values of our culture. It's a platform where we come together for integration into the new community, striving for a better future and quality of life.
FUNDS CENTER
Mobilize Funds for Community-Based Organizations
We work to gather financial resources to support grassroots organizations that are making a difference in their communities.
Recruit Funds for Community-Based Initiatives
Our mission is to source and secure funding for innovative projects that aim to improve local communities.
Coach and Guide for Significant Initiatives
We provide expert coaching and guidance to ensure the success and sustainability of important community-driven initiatives.
Generation Ville
Under the umbrella of Generation Ville, we offer two significant initiatives:
Ambassador Program
Deeply connected to our cultural heritage, this program aims for youth to build bridges between schools, students, and the community. We offer diverse support to youth, addressing emotional, physical, and technological needs. Additionally, we actively promote young talent from around the world through various artistic endeavors.
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Safe After-School Environment: Creating a supportive space for students after school
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Leadership Development: Cultivating leaders from all educational levels: elementary, middle school, high school, college, and university.
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Empowerment: Providing emotional, physical, and material support, including technology training in Microsoft Office and internet skills.
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Community Connection: Bridging the gap between parents, students, and schools to strengthen community ties
Youth Art Festival
The Youth Art Festival is an annual event held worldwide, providing a unique leadership and advocacy opportunity for young people. This program is designed for youth across the globe and ages, recognizing that talent knows no borders. We aim to offer a platform for young people to share their stories through art and to speak for themselves. Every story is best told by its owner, and we are here to ensure these voices are heard. We promote young talents.
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Leadership and Advocacy: Offering a platform for young people to share their stories through art and to speak for themselves
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Promoting Young Talents: Showcasing various artistic disciplines such as visionary art, poetry, culinary arts, music and dance, public speaking, fashion and design, and video and photography
The Climate Change Taskforce.
The Climate Change program initiated by CO_AFRO Community Center in Nakivale Refugee Camp is a proactive response to the environmental challenges posed by climate change. This program aims to support local refugee camp organizations in combating climate change through tree planting initiatives and environmental stewardship.
Why We Do This:
We believe in the strength of unity and the power of diversity to light up the future of our community. Join us in making a difference and empowering the next generation.
Pioneer Heights
"Pioneer Heights" is an initiative led by the CO_AFRO Community Center aimed at empowering young refugee and immigrant entrepreneur entrepreneurs to achieve their full potential. Through this program, we mobilize resources and recruit funds to provide crucial support and guidance as they embark on their journey to success. By offering mentorship, access to educational resources, job training, and other essential services, we aim to uplift and empower the next generation of leaders in our community.
Pioneer Heights goes beyond offering temporary assistance; it's about equipping these individuals with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive and make positive contributions to society. Through this initiative, we envision a future where every young refugee and immigrant entrepreneur has the support and resources necessary to turn their dreams into reality and create lasting change in their communities.
