Empowering Families and Creating Positive Connections within our Communities
SIMBA Boys Playgroup
The SIMBA Boys Playgroup employs culturally and linguistically responsive practices that represent his reality. Manhood Rites of Passage has been common practice in African tribes dating back thousands of years.
This project guides African American boys (aged 5-8) through a process of self-discovery with the aim of developing a healthy self-identity and comprehensive understanding of oneself - encompassing mind, body, and spirit. Experienced mentors facilitate positive interactions and role modeling sessions to enhance the efforts of home and school in supporting the children's growth and development.
Key Learning Domains:
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Emotional expression
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Cultural identity and pride
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Literacy and communication
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Peer relationship building
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Leadership readiness (ages 11–12)
SIMBA/NALA Playgroup
The SIMBA Boys and NALA Girls Playgroups are parallel rites-of-passage experiences for children ages 5–10, offered alongside the caregiver coaching sessions in WEF.
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Through culturally grounded storytelling, play-based learning, and group reflection, children build confidence, strengthen peer relationships, and explore their emotional and cultural identity.
Youth ages 11–12 who complete the program may return as Junior Facilitators, supporting younger participants, modeling leadership, and reinforcing their own development in the process.
Goals and Outcomes
Our seasoned facilitators/mentors will walk boys through 4 tracks of learning and being that focus on:
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Cultural identity and establishing a healthy self-image.
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Whole body activities to gain a deeper awareness of one’s whole self.
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Social emotional learning and how to navigate emotions.
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Self-industry and the ability to do.
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Boys Participating in SIMBA will:
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Gain higher level of confidence through interaction with loving black men.
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Increase kinesthetic, multisensory, and experiential learning.​
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Establish mantra of self-awareness.
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