What we need

We need to replace the PA system which is a lifeblood for the Dance project

Background

Konverse Academy was founded in 2014 by Elvire at age 15 with the idea of teaching Hip-Hop & Street dance to children. Since then the project has developed significantly into a dance academy which supports young people of all ages and delivers training to four groups each Friday:- Konverse Mini Kids Under 5’s Konverse Kids 5-9’s Konverse Juniors 10-13’s Konverse Elite 14-18’s We provide incredible opportunities to develop and promote their talent but also to invest in other young people. This past year the group participate in the following activities:-

Dance Festivals – i.e. Dagfest Major Events – i.e. Wembley arena supporting Matt Redman Faith based Worship events i.e. regularly at the Salvation Army Delivered Creative arts days in Maidstone and Chatham Performed at Competitions - Boroughs united and National Street dance championships

Showcase - At our end of year showcase we hold a big event at The Ripple Hall Community Centre to perform what they have been learning the past year also adding another crew – Konverse Kidz (Under 9’s). The show sold out at 300 attendees.

Outcomes

Our vision is very broad in what we aim to accomplish for the young people of our community. The following is a summary of the Outcomes which are central to our vision:-

1. Creating an opportunity for young people to express themselves through the art format of dance

2. Offering employment opportunities to young people in leadership at the same time as earning a small income

3. An outlet for teaching Specialist Dance

4. Bringing Value to young people through development of:-

a. Healthy lifestyle

b. Self-confidence,

c. social skills

d. Dance Proficiency

e. Creation of an Inter cultural unity

f. Opportunity to enter a competition environment

g. A safe space to bring young people off the street

h. Family engagement

5. Creating an inter- age activity/program

6. Creates an opportunity where young people can network with other dance groups

Employment

Konverse Academy is rapidly growing and now currently employs Five young people to run the project