April at Queen Ann Nzinga Center
Hello neighbor!
Welcome back to the Queen Ann Nzinga Center newsletter. Our team has been working hard to provide our Watoto (Swahili for “children”) with engaging material that helps them build self-confidence and learn collaboratively.
Women’s History
On April 6 we hosted our 16th Annual Exceptional Women’s Concert, which honors the tremendous contributions women have made to strengthen our community. Too often their service goes unnoticed, but not by our Watoto!
After interviewing this year’s honorees, Watoto participants got to work. They collaboratively created a skit to tell the stories of our Exceptional Women, sharing their impact with a wider audience. This is a wonderful opportunity for us to see our youth’s creative talents on display, while being inspired by the every-day actions of our friends and neighbors that make New Britain better for everyone.
We also listened to some beautiful musical performances from Nzinga’s Daughters. It was a joyous occasion, including lots of choreographed dancing on-stage and impromptu dance parties off-stage.
Kwanzaa in May
Now that curtains have closed on the Exceptional Women’s Concert, Watoto continue to meet and learn about the role models, practical skills, and creative tools they need to achieve their dreams. They’ll be able to share more about their goals and progress at our final event of the program cycle: Kwanzaa in May.
This event is an opportunity for us to all gather and celebrate the achievements of our youth. There will be food, games, music, and more! All activities are open to the public.
We invite you to join the festivities! Information below:
Saturday, May 10
1:00 - 3:30 PM
Center of Excellence
57 Fern Street, New Britain CT
Norton Park Concert
As the April Showers come down, we’re daydreaming about long, sunny days and outdoor concerts. Luckily, Nzinga’s Daughters will soon be curing our rainy-day-blues! They will be performing on Norton Park on June 26, 6:30-8pm. We hope you’ll join us for an evening of music and stories.
Juneteenth
Speaking of summer and outdoor concerts, it’s time to mark your calendars for our 3rd annual Juneteenth Celebration. Hosted in partnership with the Plainville Human Relations Community Collaborative, the event will feature local vendors and tasty treats, so arrive early to peruse the offerings. We’ll be featuring local speakers as well as music, dance, and poetry celebrating our ancestors and our freedom.
This event is open to everyone–we are a stronger community when we gather together and uplift each other. We hope to see you there! Information below:
June 19th
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Veteran’s Memorial Park
Plainville CT
Thank You
Thank you for your continued support of our mission. Our transformational programs, uplifting youth to their fullest potential, would not be possible without you!
