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ABOUT Kumani youth program

 Kumani Youth Program is a 501c3 not-for-profit art based youth program aimed at nurturing a child’s development through traditional and non-traditional arts integrated teaching methods.  Our intent is to create a trauma informed environment that encourages healing, free expression, social tolerance, and academic excellence.

Our  purpose is  to provide children, families & communities with a unique experience in Performance and Visual Art that integrates Global Studies, Academic Enrichment, Restorative Justice, and STEAM. Kumani has developed and implemented a multicultural, multi-media art-based curriculum to achieve this goal. 

Education:

The creators of  Kumani Youth Program Inc. come from a diverse background.  Jude Laude has been an educator for over 20 years, and is an elected board member of  District 202 Evanston school board. He has also been the president of Chicago’s premiere Afro-Haitian dance ensemble, Tamboula Ethnic Dance Company.  Kimberly Mahal Laude has over 20 years of experience in art and education with children. She is also the founder and creator of Kuumba Youth Program, a global studies art program. She has used the Kumani curriculum in several art programs which she has conducted through various institutions and organizations.  She is also the costume director for Tamboula and part of the artistic staff for Pintig, a Filipino-American Cultural Theater Group. 

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