Rhythmic Odyssey! "A Journey of Rejuvenation!"

My name is Obayana Ajanaku, I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing with a deep sense of enthusiasm and purpose, seeking your support for a unique and transformative opportunity that I believe will greatly benefit me as well as the young people I have had the privilege of teaching for the past two decades at Austin East High School, and Vine Middle School. This opportunity will also allow me to continue to expand Drum Up Guns Down which I'm the founder and Executive Director.

For the past twenty years, I have had the honor of serving as the West African drum teacher at Austin East High School and Vine Middle Magnet School within the Knox County School system, and community. During this time, I have witnessed the profound impact that this art form has on our students, not only in terms of their artistic growth but also in building their self-confidence, cultural awareness, and overall character. I'm also the founder and Executive Director of Drums Up Guns Down, a Knoxville, Tn based organization created to stop the cycle of gun violence in our community. Drums Up Guns Down uses drums and dance to help youth express themselves, and heal and deal with pass and present traumas.

My Truth!

Within the last 3 years, after the birth of Drums Up Guns Down I found myself working non-stop, after school programming, spring break programming, our seven weeks summer program. My passion and drive is to provide our youth with positive and safe programming year round within a safe environment. DUGD has been performing throughout Knoxville, and surrounding counties, and even neighboring states to advocate, spreading the word of stopping gun violence in our communities sharing a positive vibration and word.

I found myself in a position were my cup is beginning to empty, from teaching full time, during the day and after school doing the work with my boots on the ground. My motivation to push through, and show no affects of burn-out has always been the youth who's life I'm so passionate about impacting on a daily bases. Any sign of burnout I just stuff it in and keep pushing, and pushing.

I come before you with a request that stems from a desire to deepen my own knowledge and experience in West African drum traditions, with the ultimate goal of enriching the education and performance abilities of the young individuals I teach. I have have been approve for a leave of absence from Knox County Schools to regroup and embark on a sabbatical journey to tour the great kingdoms that have played a pivotal role in the development of West African drum, specifically Nigeria, Senegal, and Mail.

This sabbatical will provide me with a unique opportunity to refuel, refill, and rejuvenate while studying and researching.

This trip will allow me the opportunity to:

1. Immerse Myself in the Cultural Context: By visiting Nigeria, Senegal, and Mail, I will have the chance to truly understand the cultural roots and historical significance of West African drum and dance. I will also do document research on how indigenous drums contribute to mental health, and social interaction of the community, and spiritually. This firsthand experience will allow me to bring a deeper level of authenticity to my teaching.

2. Learn from Master Practitioners: I plan to study under renowned West African drummers and dancers, honing my skills and gaining insights to share with the youth, and community.

3. Collect Authentic Instruments and Attire: My journey will also involve procuring authentic instruments and attire, which will enhance the quality of our performances and provide our students with a richer cultural experience.

4. Document and Share the Journey: I intend to document my sabbatical through photographs, videos, interviews and written accounts, creating educational materials that can be used in our curriculum and shared with the wider community.

However, to embark on this transformative journey, I am in need of financial support. The costs associated with travel within the countries, accommodations, tuition for lessons and workshops, and the acquisition of authentic instruments and attire are substantial.

I kindly request your support and sponsorship for this sabbatical endeavor. Your generous contribution would not only enrich my own knowledge but would also enable me to elevate the quality of education and performance opportunities for the young people I teach.

I am more than willing to provide you with a detailed proposal outlining the budget and itinerary of my sabbatical, as well as a comprehensive plan for how I intend to integrate the knowledge and experiences gained into our educational programs upon my return.

Nigeria October 23 - November 19

Senegal November 22 - December 15

Mali: December 18 - January 6

Your support, in any capacity, would be greatly appreciated and would make a significant difference in not only in my life but the lives of our community. Together, we can continue to inspire, motivate and empower young individuals through the rich cultural heritage of West African drum and dance,

Thank you in advance,

Peace and Many Blessings,

Obayana "Oba" Ajanaku