Culture Encounters – Experiences That Connect

Culture
Encounters

We are a registered 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization
with a mission to ignite cultural curiosity,
knowledge and appreciation in our community.

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Connecting People

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Our vision is to create a world where we respect,
appreciate, and celebrate people from cultures
different from our own starting
in our own backyard.

BECOME A BRIDGE BUILDER

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VOLUNTEER TODAY

At Culture Encounters, we believe that every interaction is an opportunity to build understanding. Since our start in 2015, we've evolved into a dynamic nonprofit organization that uses the arts, shared experiences, and dialogue to connect people across cultural boundaries.

Why does this matter?
Because in today’s world, fostering cultural curiosity and appreciation is key to creating stronger, more compassionate communities. By bridging gaps between different cultures, we’re opening doors to a more inclusive and interconnected future.

Who are we?
WE ARE BRIDGE BUILDERS. We began as a small arts initiative in Eastern Henrico County, known as The Next Star Arts Program, but today we’re transforming Richmond—and beyond—by creating spaces where people of all ages can engage with and celebrate diverse cultures.

Where are we going?
Our mission is growing. We’re building a movement that will expand across the nation, empowering individuals to break barriers, reduce prejudice, and celebrate the richness of cultural diversity.

Join Us
Together, we can shape a world where every culture is appreciated, and everyone feels seen. Whether you’re here to learn, engage, or support, you are a vital part of this journey.

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03 Dec

December 3 @ 5:30 pm

Reverse Giving Tuesday

10 Dec

December 10 @ 6:30 pm

EAT. TALK. CONNECT.

15 Nov

November 15 @ 6:30 pm

Conversations that connect: A Panel Discussion Series

"Everyday I knew my child was in the best of hands and each afternoon she returned I enjoyed hearing about all the wonderful people she met. Hearing about the mouthwatering dishes that were on the menu set us on a journey to revisit some of these restaurants together to create new memories. Such a beautiful, enriched experience which helped my child ignite her writing skills."

Letisha, Parent

"So amazing! Our girls are really enjoying the experience in ways they didn’t expect or anticipate - thank you for creating this opportunity for our community! It’s pretty special, and I’ve enjoyed all the photos (and the to-go boxes.)

Shelley, Parent

I found this experience very impactful. We tend to keep to our own silo of people who are just like us, but this opportunity opened my eyes to the struggles that other people have to go through just to survive. Of course, the food was delicious, but beyond that, the messages from Chef and Amma left me feeling hopeful that we can expand our community to include those who are usually outside our bubble

Participant

I’m not sure we have enough words to thank you! My daughter had the best time and loved telling us all about each restaurant, the people and the food of course! All week long she has been talking about it. We plan to check out some of these places as a family very soon .-

Parent

I really enjoyed spending time and learning other culture experiences yesterday. This was my first time eating at The Mantu restaurant and I can't wait to go back and take my family. I will definitely tell everyone about this great restaurant and the experience I first handed shared with everyone. Thank you to Chef for sharing your trials and triumphs. I realized how blessed I am for everything I have as well. Yesterday made me realize to be open to all opportunities and learn about others culture. Amma was a wonderful host and a pleasure to talk with through this GREAT experience.

Participant