Jean Assamoa

Jean Assamoa is the founder of Akwaba Fashion Elegance and Akwaba Cultural Exchange which is commonly used word(Akwaba) of the Akan people in Ivory Coast and Ghana of West Africa, meaning “Welcome”, the way of accepting people or visitors, saying that our doors are open for them. In a sense, Akwaba reflects the philosophy of this organization whose goal is to raise awareness of West Africa’s rich histories of dance and music, storytelling, African fashion and to bring people together through the common appreciation of Africa’s cultural resources.

Jean Assamoa is a professional dancer, comedian, musician, actor, fashion promoter, models trainer, instructor and choreographer from Abidjan, Ivory Coast of West Africa. In addition to founding Akwaba Cultural Exchange in Canada, he was co-founder and Artistic Director of Mask Dance Company. Inc., established in New York City from 1995 to 2001.

He was also the Founder and Artistic Director of Nzassa Company,Inc. in Ivory Coast and later established in New York City since 2002. Jean Assamoa has been teaching and performing for over 17 years in Africa, Europe, USA with a variety of New York City and USA based cultural Centers, Public and High Schools, Colleges, Universities, Community Organizations, Public Libraries and festivals, and since July 2008 in Canada(Ontario). He has won deux different Awards in New York City(2003 & 2005)include more than 50 certificats of recognitions and has dedicated himself to the promotion of cultural literacy by sharing his ancestral legacy worldwide. Using the colorful, intriguing and arresting traditional dance and music of Ivory Coast in many of his teaching and performances. He gives audiences a rare opportunity to witness authentic ritual theatre. He has help countless students reach fitness and self-expression goals through the wonderful release of African movements. He is deeply steeped in his African heritage and loves to share its wealth with all his students.

For more infos: www.akwabacultural.com.