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.

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VOLUNTEER TODAY

WE'RE BRIDGE BUILDERS. Our journey began in 2015 as The Next Star Arts Program, a humble arts organization nestled in Eastern Henrico County, Virginia with a vision to empower children through the arts. Today, we’ve transformed into something greater, a dynamic 501(C )(3) organization for all ages known as Culture Encounters. Our core mission is unwavering: we exist to ignite cultural curiosity, knowledge, and appreciation within our region. Through the transformative power of the arts, shared experiences, and open dialogue, we aim to kindle the flames of understanding. It’s not just a mission; it’s a movement towards creating a more harmonious world. Our story is rooted in the vision of our founder, Amma Gatty, a Ghanaian immigrant. Amma’s dream was to forge a community where every individual felt welcomed and included. Today, we honor that dream by embracing diversity and celebrating the unique tapestry of cultures that enrich our lives.

But we’re not stopping here. Culture Encounters is on a path of growth and expansion. We’re not just changing Richmond; we’re changing the world. Our vision extends beyond borders, with plans to establish chapters across the nation and beyond. We’re nurturing a generation of culturally aware and interconnected individuals who deeply respect, appreciate, and celebrate one another. Join us on this remarkable journey, where the arts, shared experiences, and dialogue converge to build bridges of understanding. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future—one cultural encounter at a time.

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07 Sep

September 7 @ 12:00 pm

Richmond International Dance Festival

"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