If you have ever wondered why there are so few African American ballerinas, then you have never had an aspiring ballerina for a daughter.  The cost of training and supplies necessary to become a professional ballet dancer are quite discouraging.  To become a successful ballerina requires hard work and determination on the part of the aspiring dance student and extreme financial sacrifice from her family.

 

For the past three years, our daughter Njema has been able to attend summer training intensives through the generous support of family and friends.  While we are extremely grateful that family and friends have been so kindhearted to provide financial donations, our preference is to not rely on handouts.  We are asking that you show your support for the arts by purchasing a shirt or sweatshirt and telling your friends to do the same. 

 

Each shirt purchased will bring Njema closer to being able to attend the Summer Dance Company in Atlanta, GA.  This 7-week program includes private coaching, partnering with professional dancers, strength training, solo performance opportunities, and courses in nutrition, injury prevention, audition preparation, and resume building.  The tuition cost for this experience is $4800—that does not include the cost of supplies.  If we can sell 300 t-shirts we can cover most of the expenses.  (With a few sweatshirt sales in the mix, we’ll do even better.)

 

Thank you for supporting Njema’s dream.  And thank you for supporting the arts.