FRANCIS ODHIAMBO

KENYA. 24

Project: ChezaCheza
Pronouns: He/Him

Co-founded in 2018 by Francis Odhiambo and Cherelle Druppers, ChezaCheza delivers Social-Emotional Learning through the transformative power of dance in community-led dance programs to at-risk children in Kenya. Through SEL, mindfulness meditation, and dance movement therapy, children learn to process and communicate feelings in an emotionally supportive environment where they can connect with peers and caring mentors. 

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In what ways does the ChezaCheza project embody intersectionality? 

We understand that within the community we serve, there are those who need additional support. For this reason we have started the GIRLS! program to strengthen girls’ coping skills to create more equitable gender norms and reduce sexual and gender-based violence. We also implement our programs in schools that work with Deaf children and children with learning disabilities. Every child deserves a safe space where they can feel free to express themselves through dance and music.

“Dance is part of African culture, reflects cultural values and thus creates a culturally appropriate way of learning.”

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