Abdul Samassa is the manager of the newly contemporary West Africa Drum and Dance ensemble, founded by Ismael “Bonfils” Kouyate. He has been collaborating with schools, theaters, community centers, and participated in many celebration to bring the rich history of West Africa through funk music and dance.
Ballet Waramba is dedicated to share the West African cultures through performing arts and storytelling with live dance accompanied by traditional instruments.
“At Ballet Waramba, we believe in providing the community with a series of state-of-the-art shows and performances that truly make an impact. We have produced and hosted a wide range of performances and have an outstanding group of performers that really bring each of our productions to life. Come see what we are all about, and start your transformative experience with us today!
Ballet Waramba was founded by performer, dancer, and singer Ismael “Bonfils” Kouyate. He is the Lead Performing Artist and Choreographer.
Ismael Kouyate was born in Guinea, West Africa to a long line of ‘Griots’, the oral historians that preserve the history and culture of Africa through songs, stories, music and dance. He began dancing professionally at the age of 12, when he was recruited by Les Percussions de Guinee’ to perform in their international tour, which included Europe and Asia. Upon his return in 2004, he joined Ballets Africains, the National Dance Company of Guinea, for their 50th Anniversary Tour of the US, Jubilee!. From his performances on this tour, he was contracted by the team of Fela! to serve as a Master Choreographer for the production. His talent and skills landed him a principle role in the play, if you’ve ever seen it, Fela says, “Hey Ismaela” and he begins a full litany of movement, dance and spirit that sends audiences to their feet nightly.
Ismael toured with Fela! from its humble off-Broadway roots in 2008 through its final international tours. He is the subject of a CNN special on Africa in America where his class of over 100 people ecstatically learned and modeled his movements, while speaking of their excitement to study from this legend of Guinea, many of whom had heard of him in their travels abroad. He has also been in the studio with Beyonce, adding his amazing vocals to her current hit, “Grown Woman”, the single that is featured on her Pepsi commercial.
Ismael is available as an individual performer or with his band, Waraba or his West African Dance Company, African Soul International. He is currently completing his own production about the life of King Sundiata Keita, the ruler of the Malian Empire. This story of trial and triumph will inspire people through its messages and amaze them with its vibrant choreography.”
Van FC
Van FC, a committed soccer camp, is committed to develop young athletes into professional players. Van FC offers the best possible training and growth possibilities for its players. The camp is committed to fostering a complete atmosphere that addresses the mental, technical, tactical, and physical aspects of soccer. The camp is ran by seasoned coach, Van, who devoted over 20 years of his life in training young adults at no cost, and helps dozens of them to earn contracts in professional teams.
Van FC’s training schedule is both demanding and up to date with the most recent developments in soccer teaching. Young players receive individualized attention through a planned curriculum that focuses on developing their skills, increasing their level of fitness, and comprehending the subtle strategic aspects of the game.
Van FC places a strong emphasis on character development and education in addition to physical training. The camp ensures that athletes maintain a balance between their studies and sports. Players can demonstrate their skill and obtain vital match experience by regularly competing in leagues and tournaments that offer practical exposure. Van FC strives to develop well-rounded people who can succeed on and off the field, not just talented soccer players. The team cultivates a culture of excellence and a supportive community.
You can reach out to Abdul Samassa via email at abdul@thecisionspan.com for more information or if you would like to donate to this cause.
MaiSam
MaiSam’s first initial school supplies donation took place on September 2023. We were able to provide school supplies to 20 students in Bancoumana, Mali. The extreme poverty that makes it impossible for children in rural communities to get basic resources like school materials makes the MaiSam Foundation indispensable in helping them overcome their educational challenges. MaiSam's initiatives are greatly required, especially considering that Mali is among the least literate countries in the world. By donating school supplies to these children, MaiSam not only enhances their educational experience but also plays a significant role in breaking the cycle of poverty. Access to high quality of education is crucial for empowering individuals and communities to work for better living conditions and financial security.
Donating school supplies via the MaiSam Foundation has a number of benefits. Initially, it directly affects students' academic performance by giving them access to resources like learning materials, textbooks, and stationery. This support enhances their academic achievement and increases their ability to actively participate in the learning process. Second, MaiSam relieves families of the financial burden of purchasing these items by freeing up funds for other essentials like food and healthcare. This comprehensive approach promotes not only academic success but also the overall well-being of students and their families.
Furthermore, the MaiSam Foundation would like to add more services than just school supplies. We would like to ensure that students have access to clothing and lunch money, which would address broader socioeconomic challenges that affect school attendance. When academic achievement is consistently supported, a culture of learning is fostered within communities and academic excellence is further encouraged. Ultimately, these initiatives contribute to the formation of a more knowledgeable and resilient citizenry in Mali by opening doors for future expansion and sustainable development. The MaiSam Foundation is a prime illustration of how targeted interventions and community involvement may spur positive change in the lives of people who are most in need through strategic philanthropy. You can email abdul@thecisionspan.com for more information or if you would like to donate.
