Batoto Yetu (Swahili for “Our Children”) has been dedicated to fostering the healthy creative and social development of children through the expressive medium of dance for over 20 years. We bring traditional African dance and culture to underserved youth, cultivating self-awareness and self-esteem through the performing arts.

Our History
In 1990, while teaching African dance to adults at the National Black Theater, internationally acclaimed dancer and choreographer Júlio T. Leitão noticed children routinely watching from the sidelines. In their enthusiastic faces, Julio realized the allure of African dance and the rhythm of the drums was a compelling force — one that could motivate children in their formative years. One week later, Batoto Yetu made its modest start with seven children in a playground in Harlem. Within one month, donning self-made costumes, the group performed on Staff Day at the United Nations, receiving a standing ovation. A fixture in Harlem, Batoto Yetu incorporated as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization in December of 1991 and has since grown to serve thousands of New York City children. Through the performing arts, Batoto Yetu has witnessed the transformation of shy and withdrawn children into assertive leaders and conscientious young adults.