We are proud to collaborate with Lamine Sonko, an interdisciplinary artist, composer, cultural educator and researcher, who brings a rich cultural heritage and deep knowledge of African music and traditions to our childcare center. Lamine is a descendant of the Sing Sing clan and the Korings of Kaabu, and a member of the Serer, Wolof, and Mandinko communities in Senegal. His work is grounded in his cultural role as a *guewel* (or griot), a custodian of oral history and music, who has spent his life learning and sharing embodied cultural knowledge through sacred rituals and ceremonies.
Lamine’s practice explores African epistemologies—ways of knowing—and how they can enrich our understanding of ourselves and the world through the arts. As the director of the 13.12 project, he promotes intercultural learning, bridging traditional African creative practices with Western pedagogies. His work spans various art forms, from theatre to film, and includes award-winning compositions, such as his contribution to the Grammy-winning album ‘Winds of Samsara.’
At Jacobs Early Learning Centre, Lamine’s ‘Journey to Africa’ incursion provides children with a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture, music, and stories of Africa, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
