The Step Afrika International Cultural Festival is a unique opportunity for people from all walks of life to interact and exchange with the African continent. Founded in 1994 as a cultural exchange between Americans and South Africans, Step Afrika partners with the Soweto Dance Theatre (SDT) to welcome individuals and artists from around the world to participate in a rich experience that involves community service, cultural exchange and youth development. Each year, people like you join us as delegates. And here's why.

At the festival, each day presents a new opportunity to exchange culture, ideas and personal experiences. Performances and workshops highlight traditional and contemporary art forms, dance instruction from the Zulu, Sotho and Tswana traditions along with countless others. Language lessons and constant interaction provide delegates with deep insight into the cultures of Southern Africa and other nations. The result is a dynamic sharing environment that can break down the barriers and long-held stereotypes by both communities.

Hosted in the historic township of Soweto (several minutes outside of Johannesburg), the Festival welcomes over 200 South African youth daily who attend dance classes and workshops. US delegates volunteer to teach workshops, usher kids into classes, spread the word in local communities, and take pictures of festival events. By helping to design costumes and paint kids' faces, delegates join a lively Street Carnival and later, travel outside the city to rural South African communities.

Connections That Last a Lifetime

The Festival allows delegates to interact with South Africa in ways rarely experienced by other tours. By working in partnership with South Africans, participants depart Soweto with a sense of accomplishment, understanding and excitement for the future. Relationships built by the festival last a lifetime.

To date, more than thirty thousand people have experienced the energy of the Festival. More than 4,000 South African youth have enjoyed its workshops and outreach programs. And over 150 young Americans & Europeans have traveled to South Africa in order to learn, teach, and share.

Join Us!

As a delegate to the Festival, you will be joined by some of South Africa's most committed artists/activists to lead daily workshops on culture, history and dance from both sides of the Atlantic. American celebrities like Cool Runnings' Doug E. Doug and West Wing's Dule Hill have already participated in the festival's historic exchange process, sharing their talents with hundreds of South African young people.

Space is limited and early enrollment is strongly encouraged. Contributions toward the trip may be tax-deductible. If you are interested in joining us for the 2007 Step Afrika! International Cultural Festival, email us at info@stepafrika.org.