Ayo Handy-Kendi, the oldest daughter of Doris A.M. Thomas, Actress
and Company Director of the Serenity Players, learned the art of
“storytelling” as a child listening to her Mother’s stories. She then
created story dramas and skit re-enactments with paper dolls, doll
babies, stuffed animals and friends. As an adult, she professionally
started telling stories in her work as a Community Organizer and Mental
Health Counselor, as early as 1970.
In 1981, she founded a cultural event that grew and grew developing as
the Founder/Director of the African American Holiday Association
(AAHA) in 1989. Here, she delighted young and old, lovingly called
Mama Ayo- the Kwanzaa Griot. A “Griot” (pronounced Gree o)
offers storytelling in the oral tradition of Motherland Africa
that are culturally based, filled with life’s lessons, values and
history. Mama Ayo continues to connect culture, health and history
to delight young and old with story performances that make information
come alive!
Ayo Handy Kendi has presented before millions over radio, t.v. and
print as a Storyteller, Holiday Authority, founder of Black Love Day –
Feb. 13th, Workshop Facilitator, Rituals Officiator, Breathologist,
Inspirational Speaker, Author, Entrepreneur, and Spokesperson for
Holiday Stress Management.
As Mama Ayo – the Kwanzaa Griot, she has presented notable story
performances locally at the National Theater, National Harbor,
the Smithsonian, Fort Dupont Summer Theater, P.G. Mall and is featured
at numerous Kwanzaa, Juneteenth and D.C. Emancipation Day events;
schools, churches, hospitals and community programs. Nationally she has
performed with African American Women on Tour, N.Y’s Kwanzaa Expo, and
Atlanta’s Juneteenth Celebration; while internationally on Voice of
America broadcasted over 22 countries and at the Roots & Gospel
Festival, Benin, West Africa. |
One aim one destiny Mother afrika 