Programs

Where the work meets the world

Bi-Okoto's programs reach children, students, families, artists, and lifelong learners. Each program carries the same commitment: cultural authenticity, accessibility, and intergenerational stewardship.

Children & Youth · K–12

Tolongo After School

Bi-Okoto's flagship after-school program, structured around the school year as Summer Camp and Tolongo Qtr_1 through Qtr_4. African drumming, dance, language, and the philosophy that travels with them — woven into a consistent weekly rhythm that families can plan around.

· Aligned with the academic calendar
· Quarterly cycles plus a summer camp
· Open to children of all backgrounds
· Subsidized rates available for families that need them

Cincinnati Public Schools · Universities · Independent Schools

School & College Residencies

Ten-week residencies aligned with Cincinnati Public Schools standards, bringing African cultural arts directly into classrooms. Drumming, dance, storytelling, and cultural context delivered by working teaching artists — meeting curriculum goals while opening doors students didn't know were there.

· 10-week residency model
· Aligned with CPS curriculum standards
· Customizable for grade level and subject focus
· Available for K–12 and higher ed

Book a residency

Junior 6+ · Senior 13+

Okoto Kekere

Bi-Okoto's development pipeline for emerging artists. Okoto Kekere prepares participants as second-company performers, teaching artists, and production professionals — developing skills in drumming and dance, plus instrument making and repair, stage management, and AV production.

· Junior cohort (ages 6+) and Senior cohort (ages 13+)
· Performance training in drum and dance
· Production skills: instrument repair, stage management, AV
· Pathway into Bi-Okoto's teaching and performing artist roster

Inquire about Okoto Kekere

Adults · Teens · Open enrollment

Studio Classes

Standalone classes at the Bi-Okoto Cultural Center for community members who want to study with us directly. Drumming, dance, and language — taught by Bi-Okoto teaching artists in small group settings.

· Drumming, dance, and language tracks
· All experience levels welcome
· Small group instruction at the Cultural Center
· Drop-in and term-based options available

Find a class

College students · Recent graduates

Internship Program

Hands-on internship placements across Bi-Okoto's nine functional areas — from artistic programs to operations, development, and digital. Interns learn the full picture of nonprofit cultural-arts work alongside the staff who do it every day.

· Placements across multiple functional areas
· Real responsibility, not coffee runs
· Mentorship from experienced staff
· Pathway into employment for high performers

Apply for an internship

Tolongo Registration

Registration is opening soon

We're building the new Tolongo registration experience now. In the meantime, share your interest and we'll reach out as soon as registration opens for the next session.

Express interest in Tolongo

Have questions about a program?

Whether you're a parent, an educator, an artist, or someone curious about partnering — reach out and we'll point you to the right person.