Building Global Bridges for Youth

Coping with the challenges that face biracial, divorced and adoptive families, especially for single parents, requires strength, perspective and social tools. Single parents often feel guilty for perceived shortcomings such as depriving the children of a two-parent household and its perceived ability to provide more personal attention and quality of care. Single parents act as role models by exhibiting ethical behavior for their children, negotiating life challenges, handling emergencies, and teaching their children to thrive in their individual role in a complex society.

Often children are confronted with identity and emotional crises, abandonment and trust issues, and ultimately the lack of belonging in communities in which they find themselves.

In this circle gathering, I apply the knowledge and wisdom from my indigenous and personal experiences to empower, encourage and uplift the human spirit. Individuals will learn power drumming with the goal of achieving a positive attitude toward life. As we drum and tell our stories, they learn how to channel their energies in a positive way, develop good social and leadership skills, and relate to each other in a cooperative and respectful way.

Here are some skills we consider:

- Discovering identity and self-worth

- Truth telling

- Vision and insights

- Power, purpose and freedom 

- Respect, responsibility and maturity

Any interested biracial and or adoptive parents or social agencies are welcome to coordinate and promote this program. Circle meetings are scheduled upon request and customized for the participants.

Onye Onyemaechi was born to parents from two different tribes in southeast Nigeria. He came to the United States as a teenager, living in a Catholic monastery; he became a star athlete and successful student. Onye earned a BA degree in Fine Art and an MBA in International Business all while sharing and promoting African music and traditional wisdom. After great difficulties with the immigration system he became a U.S. citizen and made a long career as an educator and mentor throughout the U. S. and Europe. He has taught for schools, universities, conferences, museums, libraries, hospitals, correctional agencies and corporations. He is the father of biracial daughter and son.