Philosophy

BAKA is an ancient African word meaning enlightenment and is symbolized by the rising sun. Our goal is to provide the youth of east Oakland with a safe place to express themselves and to reach and enlightened state. We do this by providing our youth with educational assistance, training in leadership, social justice, and cultural awareness. We contribute a unique approach to working with youth - Capoeira - which was created as a tool for liberation by enslaved Africans in Brazil. Capoeira is a unique rights-of-passage which we use to instill a responsibility to the community, promote equality and diversity, cultivate creativity, and build self-esteem. BAKA concentrates on at-risk, low-income, youth of color. As we build young people, we will build our communities. What we give to our youth today, they will give to our communities and to the world tomorrow.

BAKA offers financial aid for low-income youth who wish to enroll in our program. Monthly fees for membership in the BAKA program are 40 dollars, but there are 1/2 scholarships (20 dollars/month) and full scholarships (free of charge) available for families in need. For more information e-mail bakaarts@yahoo.com

Training: lessons in capoeira techniques, history, music, maculele, and samba de roda

After School Program: tutoring, discussions on historic and current affairs, reading circles, and guest speakers.

Expanding Horizons: allows our youth to experience things outside their usual environment and routine through international travel, visiting other Capoeira schools throughout the country, cross-organization youth collaborations, and attending youth conferences.

Leadership: Activities and events coordinated and lead by our youth. It teaches them leadership skills, how to manage time, money, resources, and how to accomplish their goals.      

BAKA is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. We are striving to provide a quality cultural center for east Oakland youth which will serve as a vehicle to create social change. Your charitable donations will go a long way in supporting this effort and would be greatly appreciated. Make your checks payable to:

BAKA