True Roots offers a variety of training opportunities to support organizations in maximizing the positive impact of their work. One such program is leadership training for teenage members of a Oaxacan folk dance company.
Under the guidance of director and founder Alejandro Díaz, the company grew rapidly to include 45 young dancers (ages 7 – 19), three volunteer and three paid teachers, as well as a Board of Directors that assists with fundraising.
Like any performing art, Mexican folk dance requires practice, persistence, discipline, and a strong sense of commitment. The Gubhixa Folk Dance group’s mission and vision includes not only sharing Oaxacan culture through dance, but also helping young company members develop values and self-management skills for life.
True Roots created a leadership training program for 10 of the Gubhixa teenage dancers. Through a series of workshops on participatory leadership and facilitation, communication, and team building, this select group of teenagers prepared themselves as the future leaders of the dance company. They were carefully chosen by the company director and teachers based on their positive attitudes and leadership potential.
True Roots’ Gubhixa leadership training program aims to develop a core group of young leaders who effectively communicate and promote team building in a planned and organized way, in order to ensure the long-term continuity of a highly competitive, professional, and resilient company.