The Beauty of Our African Roots event, hosted by AYDEPI in June 2024, was a remarkable celebration of culture and community. Youth, parents, partners, and friends gathered to honor Africa’s rich traditions through vibrant music, captivating dance, stunning art, and powerful storytelling. Special guests included Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Council Members, and other community leaders, who joined in celebrating the spirit of unity and pride. The event showcased the beauty of African heritage while fostering connections among diverse groups. Guests were inspired by cultural performances led by diverse students representing their cultures, as well as educational displays and heartfelt speeches emphasizing the importance of preserving and sharing these traditions.

Among the five teams competing in cultural dances, Angola won the title, South Sudan placed second, and Kenya (Kikuyu) came third. “We hope to have another exciting cultural event next year,” said Ashley Stephen, Office Administrator. This was the third annual event, and the youth are hopeful to raise funds to host the fourth event in June or July 2025.

The Bridge to Harmony: Young Kings Mentorship Program, led by Coach Anthony Curtis, Executive Director of the Black Equality Coalition, has made a significant impact on 50 boys in South King County. Focusing on self-regulation, violence prevention, and emotional resilience, the program aimed to address conflicts and reduce risky behaviors. With Coach Curtis’s leadership, participants engaged in one-on-one coaching, group mentorship, and hands-on workshops that helped them identify emotional triggers and learn conflict resolution strategies. Over 90% of the youth demonstrated positive behavioral changes, including improved anger management and reduced violence. Success stories include youth reconnecting with school, avoiding negative influences, and becoming role models in their communities. Through stipends, refreshments, and a supportive environment, Bridge to Harmony provided both practical tools and life-changing values. The program continues to empower youth to lead positive, impactful lives, and its success is a testament to Coach Curtis’s dedication and vision.

Aydepi’s Young Mentors played a crucial role in supporting their peers with FAFSA and WASFA applications, helping underrepresented and low-income students navigate the often complex financial aid process. These mentors, trained to understand the intricacies of both FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid), provided personalized assistance to students in South King County, Spokane, and Whitman. They conducted one-on-one counseling sessions, answered questions, and clarified eligibility requirements. Additionally, they led workshops and educational seminars, explaining the differences between FAFSA and WASFA and guiding students through the application steps. Their outreach extended beyond individual meetings, with mentors creating and sharing video content and materials in multiple languages, including French, Swahili, Lingala, and Arabic, to ensure accessibility for diverse communities. Through this initiative, Aydepi’s Young Mentors empowered their peers with the knowledge and confidence needed to successfully apply for financial aid and pursue higher education opportunities.