A highly experienced consultant with a remarkable track record of delivering exceptional results across various industries, she is adept at providing strategic guidance and effective solutions to complex challenges. Her specialization involves the creation and implementation of innovative strategies that drive business growth and improve operational performance. With a strong foundation in communication and analytical skills, she has a deep understanding of market trends and industry standards, which empowers her to craft customized solutions that address the specific requirements of each client.
Currently, she is collaborating with MidnightRose, where Ms. Abney is fulfilling her role as a consultant by disseminating information about an upcoming event scheduled for September 14, 2024, at Tenley Library. Her responsibilities include utilizing email and social media platforms to promote the event, ensuring that the relevant audience is informed and engaged. Through her efforts, she aims to maximize attendance and create awareness about the event, leveraging her expertise in communication to effectively reach potential participants.
Ms. Abney's commitment to excellence is evident in her proactive approach to client engagement and event promotion. By harnessing her extensive knowledge of digital communication strategies, she is able to effectively convey the significance of the event and its benefits to the community. Her ability to tailor messages for different platforms not only enhances visibility but also fosters a sense of connection with the audience, ultimately contributing to the success of the event and reinforcing her reputation as a trusted consultant in her field.
PAST SELECTED ART EXHIBITIONS
• Virtual Art Exhibition and Poetry Reading. February 19, 2023
• The National Daughter Daddy Tour. National City Christian Church, Washington, D.C. 2004 - 2006
• Every Picture Tells A Story. Moca DC, Washington, D.C. January 6, 2006 – January 27, 2006
• "Visions." Ellingtons on 8th, Washington, D.C. May 31 - June 28, 2006.Curated by Prelli Anthony Williams. Reception, May 31, 2006 from 6-8pm and Closing Reception, June 28, 2006
• "The Power Within." El Tamarindo, Washington, D.C. July 1 - 31, 2006. Curated by D.Edward Dyer, President of Art N Deed, LLC.
• "Images of Life." Phish Tea Cafe, Washington, D.C. July 31, 2005 - September 2005
• Norton Kirby Advertising, Washington, D.C. 2005
• "Heritage Collections." Emma Mae Gallery, Washington, DC. 2005-2004
•"James McLaugin Memorial Staff Show." Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. 2000
•New Horizons Presents Tomorrow's World Art Center. "Celebrating Our Heritage Through The Arts." Atrium Gallery One, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC. 1999
•"Evolution of Historical Symbolisms." Corcoran Gallery of the Art, Hemicycle, Washington, DC. 1997
•"All Senior Summer Show." Corcoran School of the Art, White Walls Gallery, Washington, DC. 1997-1996
SELECTED ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Art featured on brochure and book cover.
Designed, directed, and coordinated successful educational and arts programs for adults and children.
Researched and wrote successful grant proposals.
Managed several popular arts events, community festivals, workshops and conferences.
Nominated for a variety of awards including the 2001 Mayor’s Arts Award in the category of Outstanding Emerging Artist.
Recipient of multiple grants from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities
Participated in the Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton's Congressional Art Competition in 1992 and 1993.
SELECTED SKILLS
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Publisher, and Excel
Gallery operations
Curating art exhibitions
Social media marketing
Graphic designing
Flyer dissemination
Trained visual arts and dance professional
SELECTED PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES
PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers and Esther Productions, Inc, Washington, D.C.. Responsible for hosting, setting up tables, clean up, interior decorating, stage designing, and recruiting participants. Sounds of Hope at Potter's House (2012), The Gift (October 2015; October 2016, and October 21, 2017); Building Family in the 21st Century (June 2016); Painting Your Future Bright: A Sip and Paint for Girls Ages 13 - 17 (March 16, 2019); and PaintSpiration: An Interactive Workshop designed for girls ages 13 through 17 (May 4, 2019).
ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018.
Designed and taught visual arts classes, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.
Prepared and distributed weekly progress reports to ensure clear communication with the Program Manager.
Developed tailored lesson plans for diverse skill levels, fostering a positive learning environment.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans.
Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans, fostering a productive environment.
Adapted quickly to diverse environments, maintaining student engagement and continuity of learning.
Substituted for the Spanish Art Teacher, ensuring seamless delivery of curriculum and learning objectives.
Reinforced learning objectives, promoting a positive and productive classroom atmosphere.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. JEAP, Washington, D.C.. 2015.
Organized engaging activities, prepared materials, and assisted students with assignments, enhancing learning.
Reported to management, ensuring clear communication and smooth operations within the program.
Helped students with assignments, leading to improved academic performance and confidence.
Collaborated with the team to create a supportive learning environment, fostering student development.
AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Roda Movements, Takoma Park, M.D.. February 2015 - February 2015.
Taught West African dances to a group of young children aged 7-9. Integrated historical context into lessons, conducted warm-up sessions, developed energetic dance routines, and achieved measurable improvement in students' dance techniques and cultural knowledge.
WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. M.O.M.I.E.S TLC, Washington,DC. July 2015 - August 2015.
● Taught West African dance to summer camp students, emphasizing cultural and historical context.
● Conducted daily 30-minute warm-ups to enhance flexibility and stamina.
● Developed students' skills in energetic dance movements, fostering teamwork and discipline.
● Provided comprehensive instruction on various West African dances, leading to a successful final performance.
WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. YWDEP, Washington, DC. August 2015.
● Taught West African dance to summer camp students, emphasizing cultural and historical context.
● Conducted daily 30-minute warm-ups to enhance flexibility and stamina.
● Developed students' skills in energetic dance movements, fostering teamwork and discipline.
● Provided comprehensive instruction on various West African dances, leading to a successful final performance.
WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. (July 3,2013 - July 17, 2013)
Led West African dance instruction for summer camp students, fostering cultural appreciation and historical understanding.
WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Hyde Addison Elementary School for Annual International Dinner (May 18, 2013)
Led a West African dance presentation at Hyde Addison Elementary School for the Annual International Dinner, showcasing cultural heritage and engaging over 100 attendees.
SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. August 2013.
Taught dance to grades 9-12 during World Intensive Summer Camp, ensuring continuity in curriculum.
Adapted lesson plans to meet diverse student needs, enhancing engagement and learning outcomes.
Maintained classroom discipline and fostered a positive learning environment.
Collaborated with staff to align teaching methods with studio standards.
SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. August 2013 - July 2015.
Instructed children and adults in Samba Fusion and Afro Beats classes, developed engaging lesson plans, adapted teaching methods to accommodate varying skill levels, and maintained continuity and high standards in dance instruction.
AFROBEAT, a dance class that includes a fusion of modern and African upbeat combinations to Nigerian music, inspired by FELA! the musical.
Samba Fusion, a dance workout that brings the benefits of basic samba/axe drills and steps to tone muscles.
SUMMER ACADEMY CAMP PART- TIME ELECTIVE ART TEACHER. Higher Achievement, Washington, DC - Metro. July 1, 2013 - August 1, 2013 (Center City PCS - Capitol Hill Campus); and 2003-2004 (Bruce Monroe Elementary School).
Developed and executed visual arts curriculum for diverse 5th-8th graders, enhancing artistic skills.
Students mastered abstract painting, showing measurable improvement in technique and creativity.
Tailored lessons to accommodate varying skill levels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Implemented hands-on projects that significantly boosted student engagement and participation.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. December 2013 - 2014.
Managed and co-managed classrooms, delivering prepared lesson plans and fostering active learning.
Ensured a positive classroom environment, reinforcing learning objectives effectively.
Collaborated with Ms. Gloria Quirarte, substituting seamlessly to maintain educational continuity.
Adapted to diverse student needs, enhancing engagement and understanding.
Performed additional duties, contributing to the overall success of the educational program.
AFFILIATED TEACHING ARTIST. Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT), Washington, DC. October 2012 - May 2013.
Developed and taught visual arts classes for diverse first and second graders, integrating literacy skills.
Created a safe and structured learning environment, fostering positive student interactions.
Established classroom rules and managed behavior, ensuring a conducive educational setting.
Prepared and submitted weekly progress reports to the Program Manager, enhancing program oversight.
STUDENT SUCCESS COACH. Center City Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. October 2013-December 2013.
Tutored individuals and small groups, enhancing academic performance through tailored support.
Maintained school behavior policy, fostering a disciplined learning environment.
Assisted in extended learning activities, contributing to holistic student development.
READING TUTOR. Reading Partners, Washington, D.C. January 2013 through May 2013.
Provided specialized instruction to 3rd-5th graders using Reading Partners curriculum, improving literacy skills
Assisted students in achieving measurable academic progress through targeted reading interventions
Collaborated with teachers to tailor instructional strategies, enhancing student engagement and performance
Monitored student progress and adjusted teaching methods, leading to significant improvement in reading levels
SUBSTITUTE AFRICAN DANCE PRE - PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR. The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW), Washington, D.C. 2010 - 2012.
Taught West African Dance to ages 12-21 in DIW's Pre-Professional Program, improving technique and performance.
Enhanced student engagement and participation through dynamic and interactive classes.
Collaborated with fellow instructors to develop a cohesive curriculum, ensuring consistent skill progression.
Addressed individual student needs, leading to noticeable improvements in their dance abilities.
Guest Host. Summer is Magic Artist's Reception. The Martin Luther King Memorial Library, Washington, DC. July 17, 2003
Guest Host. Word of Mouth. Bossa Bistro Lounge, Washington, DC. March 13, 2003
Guest Host for “Open Mic”. John Nelson Gallery, Maryland. November 8, 2003
Guest Host. A Night of Poetry. Trinity College, Cullivy Lounge, Washington, DC. February 19, 2004
Host. Youth Poetry Open Mic. Kick Off Youth Poetry Week. Saturday, April 10, 2004. Mt. Pleasant Library 3160 16th St NW (Corner of 16th and Lamont St. NW) Washington, DC(basement).
PROGRAM COORDINATOR. Esther Productions, Inc., Washington D.C.. November 2004 - March 2006.
Designed and implemented community outreach programs, achieving measurable engagement growth.
Developed objectives and identified audiences, leading to successful outreach campaigns.
Created in-school programs for middle school girls without fathers, fostering significant support.
Collaborated with educators to tailor programs, ensuring maximum impact and participation.
Analyzed program effectiveness, continuously improving strategies for better outcomes.
Host. 1st Thursday Poetry Open Mic Fest sponsored by Cultural Development Corporation and Starbucks, managed by Desho Productions. 2001 - 2002
Coordinator. Open Mic.Islander Caribbean Restaurant & Lounge, Washington, DC. 2001
Guest Host. The Poets Den (Kaffa House), Washington, DC. July 26, 2001
"A Night of Poetry". The Market Five Gallery, Washington, D.C.. Oct 26, 2002
Co-coordinator. Provisions Poetry Fest and Free the Peace.Provisions Library, Washington, DC. 2002
PROJECT DIRECTOR. Jubilee Enterprise of Greater Washington, DC. August 2001 - August 2002.
Directed afterschool program staff across three sites, ensuring smooth operations and adherence to goals.
Reviewed and approved weekly academic plans, enhancing educational outcomes.
Hired, trained, and assigned tutors, fostering a skilled and effective team.
Organized cultural enrichment and parental involvement activities, boosting community engagement.
Coordinated summer enrichment program, significantly improving student participation and achievement.
PROGRAM MONITOR/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT. DC Department of Parks and Recreation, Washington, DC. 2001 - 2001. Oversaw Summer Arts Program, managed database, and handled administrative tasks, ensuring smooth operations.
GALLERY ASSISTANT. Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. 2000.
Monitored and secured artworks during gallery hours, ensuring safety and preservation.
Implemented safety protocols, reducing incidents of damage or theft.
Collaborated with the team to maintain optimal gallery conditions.
Utilized keen attention to detail to identify and address potential risks.
Contributed to a secure and welcoming environment for visitors.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. Academy for Ideal Education, Washington, D.C. 1997. Responsible for preparing materials, organizing activities, helping students with assignments, and reporting to management.
ART CURATOR. New Harlem Gallery, New York City. 1992 - 1993. Installed art for some of the exhibitions held at the New Harlem Gallery.
Curated and installed diverse exhibitions, significantly enhancing visitor engagement.
Organized art installations, promoting new artists and increasing gallery attendance.
Planned exhibitions with attention to detail, creating compelling narratives.
Collaborated with artists to select and arrange artworks, ensuring cohesive displays.
CONSULTANT. Varies. Washington, DC. 1992 - present. Designs and implements media campaigns for diverse clients, achieving measurable engagement growth.
Collaborates with various organizations to enhance public outreach and brand visibility.
Provides strategic consulting to improve campaign effectiveness, resulting in significant client satisfaction.
Develops tailored media strategies that address client-specific needs, ensuring impactful communication.
Analyzes campaign performance to optimize future initiatives, driving continuous improvement.
PAST VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS
KUUMBA ARTS AND CRAFTS PROGRAM. D.C. Department of Recreation (Emery Recreation Center, Parkview Recreation Center, Hamilton Recreation Center and Upshur Recreation Center) from 1997 - 1998 and A - T Seban Mesut (1995- 1998). conducted a free fine arts workshop for children ages 7 — 10. Taught students ages 7 to 10 techniques of drawing, finger painting, sponge painting, abstract design, clay work, collage designing and monoprinting. Sponsored by Ms. Afrika Abney and funded by the D.C. Commission of the Arts, Arts Education Grant Program
KUUMBA EXPRESSIONS, WASHINGTON, DC. Culture Coffee on January 31,2015 and Potter's House on May 16,2016 and May 23, 2016. They were sponsored by Culture Coffee, Potter's House and Esther Productions, Inc Art Enablers. Designed to serve youth between the ages of 6 through 12, including those with developmental disabilities. Participants were provided instruction in painting, using traditional and non-traditional materials, with the intent of enhancing their own natural artistic talent while expanding their fundamental information about compositional studies, light and shadow, and technique. Further, the workshop augments participants’ overall education, particularly their communication skills. Additionally, participants were introduced to many renaissance artists. Some of them include Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Polluck and Lois M. Jones.
PAST PROFESSIONAL DANCE WORKSHOPS
Greenbelt Greenman Festival (May 2013 - October 2015), Roosevelt Center, Greenbelt MD
Led workshops teaching West African dance to children and adults, organized and conducted dance sessions at festivals and community events, developed curriculum with historical context and warm-ups, facilitated energetic dance movements, and delivered workshops at multiple venues, increasing community participation and cultural appreciation.
Greenbelt Rhythm and Drum Festival (May 2013 - October 2015), Roosevelt Center, Greenbelt MD
Led workshops teaching West African dance to children and adults, organized and conducted dance sessions at festivals and community events, developed curriculum with historical context and warm-ups, facilitated energetic dance movements, and delivered workshops at multiple venues, increasing community participation and cultural appreciation.
Bloombars (April 14, 2012), Washington, DC
Led workshops teaching West African dances to children and adults, enhancing cultural understanding.
Columbia Heights MarketPlace (May 12, 2012), Washington, DC
Led workshops teaching West African dances to children and adults, enhancing cultural understanding.
Malcolm X Park (October 2009 - December 2015), Washington, DC
● Led workshops teaching West African dances to children and adults, enhancing cultural understanding.
● Organized and conducted dance sessions at festivals and community events,
engaging diverse audiences.
● Developed curriculum with historical context and warm-ups, improving student retention and enthusiasm.
● Facilitated energetic dance movements, fostering physical fitness and teamwork among participants.
● Delivered workshops at multiple venues, increasing community participation and cultural appreciation.
COMMUNITY CAREER DAY VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS
2016. Eliot (invited by Ms. Ophelia Morgan).
1996. Calvin Coolidge High School (invited by Ms. Angela Cook)
Led visual art workshops
Engaged over 200 students in discussing the visual arts career
Collaborated with school principals to tailor workshops to student needs, enhancing learning outcomes.
Achieved measurable improvements in student engagement and cultural understanding.
PAST LITERARY WORKSHOPS
Mt. Pleasant Library, Washington, DC. 2013 - 2014. Designed to assist children ages 6 -12 to expand their literary skills.
Takoma Park Library, Washington,DC. 2003. Enhancing Our Imaginations was funded by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. The workshop was geared towards young adults. Invited many poets and literary artists to bea part of the workshop. Some of them include Rebecca Bishophall, Judine Slaughter, Hank Okoro and many others.