Vitendo 4 Africa

JOIN THE POWER WOMEN DINNER ON AUG 2ND.

Empowering immigrant women is vital to building resilient families and a thriving society. By supporting their social, economic, and educational advancement, we can unlock their full potential and create a ripple effect of positive change. When immigrant women are empowered, they can:

- Break cycles of poverty and inequality
- Foster healthier and more stable families
- Contribute their unique perspectives and skills to the workforce
- Enrich their communities through cultural diversity and exchange

JOIN OTHER IMMIGRANT WOMEN ON FRIDAY AUG2nd as we continue to uplift and celebrate immigrant women, recognizing their strength and resilience as a cornerstone of a more inclusive and prosperous society.
Register here
https://www.flipcause.com/secure/event_step2/MTcyNDgw/193043

My Events Coordinator Betty Phiri Chibwe Faiza's Kitchen-Authentic Swahili Cuisine Gitzell Fairtrade International Mayor Tishaura O. Jones Sally Gacheru Zellipah Githui Muthoni Musangali St. Mary’s Complete Home Care LLC

Savoring the authentic flavors of Kenya at Faiza's Kitchen-Authentic Swahili Cuisine Pop-up Dinner! 🍴👌 Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like crispy Kenyan Fried Fish, comforting Ugali, and fresh vegetables, perfectly paired with the aromatic Mutton Pilau and crunchy Samosas. Don't miss out!

Visit them on Tuesdays at 4200 Bonfils Dr., Bridgeton, MO 63044, or call (314) 556-3071 to pre-order your taste of Kenya.
African Chamber of Commerce, St. Louis

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Thanks to David Bowman for his excellent photos of the CON tournament and festival!
We are incredibly proud of our players and all participating teams for their exceptional discipline and professionalism. Your dedication and sportsmanship have truly set a high standard and exemplify the spirit of our community.
Soccer is more than just a game; it's a powerful tool for improving mental health and fostering community integration. Playing soccer reduces stress, boosts self-esteem, and promotes physical well-being. Additionally, it brings people together, breaking down barriers and building strong, inclusive communities. Let's celebrate the positive impact of soccer on our minds and our connections with each other.
Thank you John Ritland for your great leadership with the Cup of Nations soccer tournament program.

We are delighted to invite you to the African Women Empowerment Dinner on Friday, August swsss2nd, 2024, at 6:00 PM.

The event will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Louis-Chesterfield, located at 16625 Swingley Ridge Rd., Chesterfield, MO 63017.

This special evening is dedicated to promoting immigrant women entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders in the St. Louis region. We aim to celebrate their achievements, share insights, and foster a supportive community that encourages growth and success.

The individual ticket is $100 and $1000 for a table of 10 guests. Payment can be made online or mailed to Vitendo 4 Africa 7220. N. Lindbergh Blvd, Suite 270. Hazelwood, MO 63042.

Your presence would greatly contribute to the evening, and we look forward to celebrating with you.

For more information call:
Faiza at 314 817 6969
V4A office 314-252-0488

The Multicultural Night at International Institute St. Louis yesterday was epic. The V4A African Performing Arts took the stage with the wonderful African dance and drumming.
Multiculturalism is the recognition and support of the presence of distinct cultural or ethnic groups within a society.

Multicultural societies have enormous advantages, from cultural awareness to economic prosperity, creativity to critical thinking.

Through events like Multicultural Night, Festival of Nations, and Passport Night, we are fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity, making our region a vibrant and welcoming hub for individuals from around the world.

This morning, our high school students embarked on an exciting adventure at Maryville University one-week coding camp! This fantastic opportunity allows them to:

- Develop new skills in technology and coding
- Experience college life and campus culture
- Connect with like-minded peers and make new friends

We wish them a fun, engaging, and enriching experience, and look forward to seeing the amazing things they'll achieve.
Thank you to Maryville University for this great opportunity.

What a great experience with wonderful kids at 2024 Cup of Nations STL soccer tournament.
Our kids had a great opportunity to test their soccer skills and meet new friends.
Congratulations to the VIKA team on an outstanding performance today! The 2024 STL Cup of Nations soccer tournament was a resounding success, thanks to the incredible efforts of the three teams representing the African Immigrant community: AIBEX, VIKA, and Thunder.

Special recognition goes to the dedicated group coordinators - Mr. Ephraim from Ethiopia, Junior from Congo, and James from Kenya - for their selfless commitment and exceptional leadership, which has made a significant impact on the lives of our young immigrant players.

Cup of Nations STL is Committed to highlight and celebrate diversity by bringing communities together through soccer.

Congratulations to the latest group of individuals in the immigrant community who became certified adult mental health first aiders today!

We are thrilled to see the growing number of immigrant community members who are now equipped with the skills and knowledge to support mental health and well-being.
They are a valuable resource, helping to build a more supportive and resilient community for all.

Adult Mental Health First Aid (AMHFA) is a training program that teaches individuals how to identify and respond to mental health issues and crises.

By becoming certified AMHFAiders, individuals can provide support and assistance to adults experiencing mental health challenges, just like traditional first aid is provided for physical emergencies.
Thank you PreventEd , Mental Health First Aid Missouri , Saint Louis Mental Health Board St. Louis County Children's Service Fund

Looking forward to the 2024 Cup of Nations STL soccer tournament today. Cup of Nations STL is Committed to highlight and celebrate diversity by bringing communities together through soccer.
John Ritland

When adults struggle with depression, its impact ripples out to those around them.

Join us tomorrow at 10 am for a vital conversation on adult mental health first aid. Together, let's explore ways to support each other's well-being and create a more compassionate community.

Address is 220 N. Lindbergh Blvd, Hazelwood MO 63042

Mental Health First Aid training at SLU Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance-use challenges. Just as CPR help...

Missouri - Senegal Sister Cities invites you to join them for a Ndebele-themed Paint & Sip as they continue to mark 30 years as the only African City sister in the city of St. Louis, celebrating cultures of the African diaspora.
Space and Traditional supplies are limited, so reserve your spot today!
Date: Saturday, July 27
Time: 3 PM to 5 PM
Location: Zuka Art Guild, 14th Street Artist Community
Address: 2701 N 14th Street, St. Louis, MO 63106
Event Highlights:
• Featuring the art of the Ndebele people
• Enjoy wines from South Africa and non-alcoholic beverages
• Learn to paint in the Ndebele style
• Guided by Missouri artists who trained with renowned Ndebele artist Esther Mahlangu
Artists: Adelia Parker-Castro, Clayvon Ambrose Wesley, Lois Daniels Ingrum, Najjar Abdul Musawwir, Rosa Johnson, and Ron Young
See more details on the flyer and register here https://ow.ly/n1yK50SBBhh

Congratulations to the newest Teen Mental Health First Aiders in our immigrant community!

We are beyond proud of each and every one of you for taking this crucial step in supporting the mental wellness of your peers and community. Your dedication to creating a safe and supportive environment is truly inspiring.

As Teen Mental Health First Aiders, you have gained the skills and knowledge to:

- Identify signs and symptoms of mental health challenges
- Provide initial support and guidance
- Connect individuals with professional help

We wish you all the best as you embark on this important journey. Your contributions will make a significant difference in the lives of those around you. Keep shining and supporting one another!


Mental Health First Aid Missouri
St. Louis County Children's Service Fund
Mental Health First Aid USA
Saint Louis Mental Health Board

Vitendo 4 Africa Vitendo4Africa is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to welcome, connect and empower healthier

Creativity and Self-Care: The Power of Arts for Kids' Mental Health
V4A provide Arts and Dance Therapy program for immigrant and refugee kids in Hazelwood location for the St. Louis County residents and in Dutchtown for residents in St. Louis city. This program has become very popular and with great outcomes.
The arts offer a unique outlet for kids to express themselves, explore their emotions, and cultivate mental well-being. Engaging in creative activities like drawing, painting, music, dance, or drama can have a profound impact on children's mental health.

Benefits of arts for kids' mental health:

- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Fosters self-expression and communication
- Builds confidence and self-esteem
- Encourages empathy and understanding
- Develops problem-solving skills
- Provides a healthy distraction from negative thoughts

By incorporating arts into their daily lives, kids can develop essential tools for managing their emotions, building resilience, and nurturing their mental health.

Let's encourage our kids to explore their creativity and watch them thrive!

Thank you to all our partners St. Louis County Children's Service Fund Saint Louis Mental Health Board , Glimmers of Hope, Mental Health First Aid Missouri and the immigrant community.

July 15th marked World Youth Skills Day 2024, an initiative started by UNESCO-UNEVOC nine years ago to champion the youth changing the world through skills.

Multicultural societies have enormous advantages, from cultural awareness to economic prosperity, creativity to critical thinking.

With the significant increase in refugee arrivals to St. Louis we have welcomed people from over 23 countries and speaking nearly 50 different languages in the last six months. This is a very multicultural St. Louis in the making.

We are also welcoming the highest number of Africans ever to St. Louis. They bring a distinct culture that is rich and largely undiscovered. The African culture also significantly intersects with the African American Culture, with and specifically braiding being the glue that binds them.

It is for this reason that we are hosting “Threads of Unity” offering the St. Louis community an opportunity to learn more about the African culture. Join us!

Huge thanks to the beautiful and talented Tracy, the newly crowned Miss Teen Missouri, for taking the time to inspire our young immigrant girls with her amazing story! Her journey as an immigrant is a testament to hard work, determination, and the pursuit of dreams. Our kids were so inspired by her words of encouragement and her shining example. Thank you, Tracy, for being a role model and a beacon of hope for our young people!

Kicking off teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) training for the immigrant youth.

teen Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an evidence-based course developed to teach teens in grades 9-12, or ages 14-18, how to assist and support a friend or classmate who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge — and get assistance from a trusted adult.
Thank you PreventEd and Mental Health First Aid Missouri for partnering with us.

Join us for chess game on Mondays at 4.30pm at our Hazelwood location. V4A chess club helps immigrant kids perfect their chess skills and make new friends.

Here are some benefits of playing chess for kids.
- Improved problem-solving skills
- Enhanced critical thinking
- Better analytical skills
- Improved memory and concentration
- Strategic thinking and planning
- Improved academic performance in reading and mathematics
- Boosts creativity
- Develops sportsmanship and integrity
- Teaches how to win with humility and lose with dignity
- Develops empathy and builds healthy social relationships

Thank you TheCollective for partnering with us to introduce yoga exercise to the African Immigrant community. Today V4A Healthy Living team led by Sally Gacheru and Solomon Muya hosted the first adult yoga class at St Ferdinand Park.
We are committed to provide a holistic approach when it comes to mental health our community.

Here are some ways yoga can benefit mental health.
1. Improved cognitive skills: Yoga has been shown to increase brain function and build connections between brain cells, which can improve learning, memory, attention and language.
2. Reduced stress: Exercise in general can boost your mood by reducing stress hormones and increasing endorphins, but yoga can also affect mood by increasing GABA, which can reduce anxiety.
3. Improved mood: Yoga has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and can be as effective as other treatments.
4. Reduced anxiety: Studies have shown that yoga can reduce anxiety by teaching breathing techniques.
5. Improved sleep: Yoga has been shown to improve sleep quality and efficiency, especially for older adults.
6. Increased self-awareness: Yoga encourages you to listen to your body and mind, which can increase your understanding of your thoughts and emotions.

Read more https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/yoga-for-better-mental-health

The next Healthy Living event be at Creve Coeur next month.

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2024 UMSL Bridge Program summer program! We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone achievement.

The UMSL Bridge Program has been a beacon of hope for many immigrant students, providing them with invaluable high school and college readiness skills. Moreover, the program has empowered immigrant parents to navigate the American education system, equipping them to support their children's academic journey.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the program sponsors- Kwame Charitable Foundation Ameren Missouri , The Boeing Company , University of Missouri-St. Louis - for their generous support. Their contributions have made it possible for many families to access this program free of charge, bridging the gap for those who cannot afford paid summer programs.

Special thanks to Dr. Peoples, the dedicated teachers, and staff for devoting their summer to shaping the minds of our future leaders. This program is a shining example of community collaboration and a testament to the power of collective impact. By investing in our youth, we are shaping the future of our region and our nation as a whole.

Congratulations once again to the graduating class of 2024 summer program!

As Frederick Douglass so aptly put it, 'It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.' This poignant quote highlights the importance of early childhood development.

The first decade of life, from birth to age 10, is the most critical period in shaping a child's future. During this window, young minds are most receptive to learning, growth, and development. By investing in their cognitive, emotional, and social well-being during these formative years, we set them on a path to becoming confident, capable, and resilient individuals.

With many challenges facing our communities today, we need to prioritize nurturing and supporting our children during this pivotal stage, laying the foundation for a lifetime of growth, success, and happiness.

If you are a Minority- or Women-Owned Business (MWBE) interested in becoming Certified to do business in the St. Louis region, please join us at the every Tuesday & Thursday at 1 p.m. for a “Digging Through the Weeds of Certification” training session.

Congratulations to our V4A high school mentee, Michelle Kuria for being featured on UMSL daily.

The 5-day program featured daily guest speakers and wrapped up with a field trip to watch Channel 5's noon broadcast live from the control booth.

Heading into her senior year at Hazelwood West High School, Michelle Kuria has thought about the idea of a possible career in marketing or public relations, so she was excited to sign up for the inaugural PR Pathways program offered in conjunction with the University of Missouri–St. Louis‘ Bridge Program in late June.

Michelle just concluded the BOLD@olin summer program at Olin Business School - WashU. The WashU BOLD@Olin program provides a platform for students to dive into a life-changing opportunity for learning, networking, and personal growth.

Read more

PR Pathways offers high school students an in-depth look into careers in public relations - UMSL Daily The 5-day program featured daily guest speakers and wrapped up with a field trip to watch Channel 5's noon broadcast live from the control booth.

We are happy to partner with Glimmers of Hope to provide art therapy classes for immigrant and refugee kids in St Louis.