A wave of creativity is sweeping through Nottingham’s schools, as Project Donkiloo Laa, a dynamic arts initiative, kicks off its first leg with workshops designed to inspire, educate, and empower children. Supported by funding from Arts Council England, this project blends the musical heritage of project co-founder, Pa Bobo Jobarteh, with modern artistic expressions, offering young participants the chance to explore music, dance, storytelling, and visual arts in unique and engaging ways.

A Journey Rooted in Culture and Creativity

Pa Bobo Jobarteh is a griot— a West African storyteller, historian, and musician— Jobarteh brings an extraordinary depth of tradition and knowledge to the project. His role in Project Donkiloo Laa focuses on rhythm and song, guiding children through the ancestral sounds of the kora and teaching them how music can be a powerful form of expression and communication.

Collaborating with Jobarteh is Jude, the creative director of BeatFeet, an organisation based in Nottingham, known for its vibrant, interactive arts experiences. Jude, who has long used drumming and movement as tools for education and empowerment, co-directs Project Donkiloo Laa with an emphasis on dance, rhythm, and the connection between body and sound.

Workshops That Inspire

Since its launch, Project Donkiloo Laa has been weaving its magic across several Nottingham schools. Children have the chance to immerse themselves in various creative disciplines:

Rhythm and Song Workshops
Dance and Movement
Storytelling
Visual Arts

A Creative Journey That Continues

Project Donkiloo laa’s workshops are not just a one-time event; they represent the beginning of a larger creative journey that will continue into February 2025. As the project expands, more schools across Nottingham will be involved, allowing even more children to discover their talents and deepen their understanding of different cultures through art.

The project is not only about the arts but also about nurturing connection, collaboration, and confidence in young people. By bringing together rhythm, movement, stories, and visual expression, Project Donkiloo offers children the opportunity to learn in an immersive, hands-on environment that celebrates diversity and creativity.

The Power of Arts Council England Support

Project Donkiloo wouldn’t be possible without the invaluable support of Arts Council England. Their funding ensures that these workshops can reach a wide range of children in Nottingham, providing access to the arts in schools that may not have the resources to offer such exciting and meaningful cultural experiences on their own. This project is a testament to the transformative power of the arts, helping to build a more vibrant, connected, and creative future for Nottingham’s young people.

Looking Ahead

As Project Donkiloo Laa progresses over the next few months, it will continue to build momentum, reaching more schools and inspiring more children. With the dedication of artists like Pa Bobo Jobarteh and Jude, and the support of passionate teachers and educators, this initiative is set to leave a lasting impact on the city’s cultural landscape.

In a time when the arts are more important than ever, Project Donkiloo Laa shines as a beacon of creativity, community, and cultural exchange. The children of Nottingham are not just participants in this journey—they are the creators, the storytellers, and the artists of the future.

Stay tuned for updates as Project Donkiloo Laa continues its journey, bringing joy, rhythm, and inspiration to the young minds of Nottingham!