LeadershipThe people behind the rhythm
Rooted in purpose. Committed to youth. Meet the team guiding the AIFS Youth Drumming Academy and its mission of cultural learning, confidence, and community connection.
Leading the Academy
- Academy leadership
Eric Beba
Youth Drumming Academy Lead
Eric leads the AIFS Youth Drumming Academy, guiding its young drummers and dancers from practice to performance. He reports directly to the AIFS Executive Director and is also part of the AIFS WEB TV team.
- Academy team
Mermoz Mitchozounnou
Assistant, Youth Drumming Academy
Mermoz works alongside Academy Lead Eric Beba to support instruction, rehearsals, and performances.
Organizational leadership
- Organizational leadership
Adama Sawadogo
Founder & Executive Director, AIFS
Adama founded and leads African Immigrant Family Services, the organization that is home to the Youth Drumming Academy.
- Youth development
Claude Leandre Ouedraogo
Program Director & Youth Development Program Coordinator
Claude leads AIFS program coordination and the broader Youth Development Program, of which the Academy is a part.
Instructors, youth leaders & advisors
As the Academy grows, this section will introduce our instructors, youth leaders, volunteers, and artistic and cultural advisors.
- Join the team
Share your skills
Instructors, youth leaders, volunteers & advisors
Are you a drummer, dancer, storyteller, or cultural educator? We would like to hear from you.
A program of African Immigrant Family Services
African Immigrant Family Services (AIFS) is a nonprofit organization in Omaha, Nebraska, serving immigrant and refugee communities, with a focus on African and French-speaking families.
The Academy is part of AIFS youth development programming. AIFS also runs ProMoCare maternal health, the Health Screening & Education Center, case management and family support, ESL and adult education, community support services, and AIFS WEB TV.
Ready to bring the rhythm to your event?
From schools and universities to festivals, conferences, community celebrations, nonprofits, and corporate events, the AIFS Youth Drumming Academy can create a memorable cultural experience for your audience.