ABOUT
Founded in 2011 by international artist Sonia Aimy, African Women Acting (AWA) is an incorporated non-profit organization. The organization aims to empower, promote and preserve African cultural arts of all modalities in Ontario. These include vocal and instrumental music, theatre, dance, visual arts, spoken word, story-telling and poetry.
In order to comprehensively achieve our goal, we ardently support female African artists and those of the diaspora and champion related issues. As we are a community of women, the agenda of addressing social activism for social issues such as sexism, discrimination, racism, homelessness, gender-based violence and mental health are some aimed at to eradicate. Through artistic expressions, AWA brings these issues to light and offers knowledge, support and solutions.
Although AWA prioritizes promoting female African artists, we strongly believe in inclusivity in the arts community. We encourage partnerships and collaborations with artists of all genders, ethnicities and religious or spiritual beliefs.
Mission
Showcase, nurture and support African arts and artists of African heritage while advocating women’s issues.
Vision
To create opportunities such as artistic and educational workshops and events which promote artistic expression, inclusiveness and community engagement. Ultimately, we want to create an indelible positive impact on African arts and social issues in Ontario.
Mandate
With its convenient locations in downtown Toronto and St. Catharine’s, AWA collaborates with various artists and art organizations to service, educate, innovate, and provide free and affordable art programs and events to under-served communities.