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The Art of Confidence Foundation
The Art of Confidence (AOC) was established in 2011 as a performing arts alliance in Atlanta, GA. The Founders of the AOC, LéJon Payne, Shanequa Dasher, and Summer Blackmon, began their partnership as schoolteachers in the Atlanta Public School system. These three dynamic teachers shared a passion for education and the arts. They worked together closely to provide students in the Atlanta Public School system and Metro Atlanta cities with artistic opportunities to enhance their creative skills and build their confidence.
The Art of Confidence Foundation (AOC) was initially founded to provide members of the Atlanta community with opportunities to perform in major stage productions and express themselves creatively. Over time, AOC has grown into a non-profit organization that serves children in various communities across the United States and around the globe. Our mission now includes building and developing the voices of youth and young adults worldwide, empowering them to make a meaningful impact in their communities and aspire to the highest heights. We continue to support youth development both locally and globally through our Youth Movement Initiative, Dramatic Arts Programs, Global Outreach, and The Art of Financial Confidence for Families initiative.
Our Purpose
The Art of Confidence Foundation (AOC) aims to empower individuals to lead confidently, speak out with conviction, and inspire others to do the same. We are dedicated to nurturing the voices of youth and young adults, providing them with the tools and opportunities to express themselves, develop their leadership skills, and make a lasting impact in their communities. By fostering confidence and encouraging empowerment, we aim to create a ripple effect that transforms lives and builds a brighter future for all.
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We are committed to being a steadfast solution to our community’s challenges by providing essential resources to those in need. Our goal is to consistently address and resolve pressing issues within our community. By partnering with a network of organizations, we ensure that we meet the ongoing demands of individuals who require support, creating a stronger, more resilient community together.
In partnership with Dasher Creations, our Dramatic Arts program is where the collective efforts of The Art of Confidence are showcased. The goal of our program is to build confidence in each participant and enrolled student. We offer one-day workshops for schools as well as full year curriculums for after school programs. Each student engages in a multifaceted curriculum where they learn about both theatrical and commercial forms of acting.
They are able to present in front of peers, give and receive peer and director feedback, and have several opportunities to experience what industry auditions are like. As a culminating activity, our dramatic arts students are able to confidently perform in a major production on a professional stage complete with professional lighting, sound, and dancers from our Youth Movement program. Due to the recent pandemic, we have temporarily suspended all in-person classes and are offering a safe, virtual program with an action packed final digital production.
Services
At The Art of Confidence Foundation, we believe in the potential of every human being. We strive to provide our partners with tools and community support to unleash their independent will and achieve their dreams.
Empowering individuals around the globe.