Award Season Reflections: Art, Legacy & Opening Doors for the Next Generation

Hello friends,

This season has been full of reflection, celebration, and beautiful reminders of why we do this work in the first place.

Award season always feels like a moment to pause and take in the journey. Attending the NAACP Image Awards again this year reminded me how powerful it is to be in a room full of artists, storytellers, and cultural leaders celebrating the impact of Black creativity.

From watching Michael B. Jordan receive Entertainer of the Year to honoring civil rights legend Jesse Jackson, the evening was a powerful reminder that the arts and social justice have always been connected. The stages we stand on today were built by generations who fought to make space for our voices.

One of the biggest surprises of this season was learning that our podcast We’re Doing the Wiz has been nominated for a National Magazine Award. I’m still taking that in.

What began as a creative exploration of the cultural legacy of The Wiz has now placed us among some of the most respected journalists and storytellers in the country. I’m incredibly grateful to our production partners at PRX and Radiotopia, and to my co-host Ian Coss for taking this journey with me.

It’s a reminder to always trust your artistic intuition and trust God with the results.

This season has also been full of meaningful moments with students. Recently I had the opportunity to lead a master class with college dancers celebrating Black History Month, reflecting on the lineage of Black artistry and why preserving that legacy matters.

Black art is not just part of American culture.

It is the engine and the fuel of American culture.

From music and dance to theater and film, generations of Black artists have shaped the rhythm and storytelling of this country. Our responsibility now is to make sure that legacy continues.

This weekend we are also stepping into the stage again with our musical production of Wonka, and I’m excited to see our students shine. Wish us luck!

At the same time, grant season is opening for the Dance Arts Academy Foundation, which means we’re working hard to expand our programs and continue bringing arts education, wellness, and performance opportunities to young people who might not otherwise have access.

Moments like these remind me that the real goal is not just recognition — it’s impact. If you believe in the power of the arts to shape confidence, creativity, and community, I invite you to join us as a Giving Partner with a monthly gift of $20. Your support helps us place teaching artists in schools, provide workshops for families, and create performance opportunities for the next generation.

Thank you for continuing to follow the journey, support the work, and believe in the power of art, culture, and community.

More updates coming soon… and since it’s also my birthday month, there may be a celebration or two along the way.

With gratitude,

Sakina