MindLeaps

MindLeaps uses dance to develop the cognitive skills and social-emotional learning of at-risk youth to ensure that they can succeed in formal education.

04/29/2026

TODAY is International Dance Day! At MindLeaps, we can't think of a better choice of a theme for a global holiday...Dance is something that inevitably unites us, removing language, religious, political and class divisions. When you look at the 4 dance movements in these photos, they could truly be done by anyone, anywhere in the world...including YOU! Take a moment to celebrate the power of dance - and do your favorite step!

International Dance Day!

04/14/2026

MindLeaps is thrilled to be shortlisted for the 2026 Laureus Sport for Good Award. Every year, Laureus recognizes the most outstanding talent in sports around the world. The Award highlights organizations that use the power of sport to advance social issues, ranging from education to sustainable livelihoods and equality.

In this short video, MindLeaps youth in Kigali, Rwanda, share how sport and dance is changing their lives and their futures.

04/07/2026

Today, we mark the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda. This is a moment to reflect on both the depths of human cruelty and the extraordinary capacity for resilience, reconciliation, and renewal.

Rwanda stands as a powerful example to the world of what is possible when a nation chooses unity and peace in the aftermath of unimaginable tragedy. Its journey reminds us that even in the face of profound loss, healing and rebuilding are within reach.

At a time when our world seems to be increasingly divided and violent, let’s take a moment to commemorate the 1 million lives lost in Rwanda and learn from our fellow human beings that a path towards peace is possible.

Learn more Kwibuka Rwanda

03/19/2026

✨ You’re Invited: A Night with MindLeaps ✨💜💚

Join us for a free evening of connection, conversation, and inspiration at our upcoming MindLeaps event in New York City!

📅 April 9, 2026
⏰ 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Manhattan (307 West 38th Street)

The evening will feature:
🍸 A welcoming cocktail reception
🎤 An engaging panel discussion with speakers connected to different MindLeaps programs from Guinea and Rwanda
💃 Interactive exercises exploring movement and social-emotional learning development, giving you a glimpse into the MindLeaps methodology

🎟️ This is a free event, but space is limited — RSVP is required.
🗓️ RSVP deadline: March 26th

Email [email protected] to receive RSVP link

Come connect with the MindLeaps community and learn more about how our programs support young people around the world. 💜💚

03/18/2026

How do children get ready to enter formal education? In Guinea, MindLeaps works with children who have never gone to school or who dropped out for an extended period of time. Through our "Catch-Up Program", students study intensively at MindLeaps for one year to learn the basics and then are sponsored to enroll in school. Check out some of their preparations!

03/14/2026

What was happening last weekend in Kigali, Rwanda? INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY! At MindLeaps, 170 women gathered from our community in Nyamirambo to mark International Women's Day. Community Facilitator Salama and Country Director Emmy Turikumwe spoke about the contributions that women make each day to our society. The celebration included traditional dance performed by MindLeaps' students, empowering speeches and a special meal.

Thank you for all you do! Murakoze cyane!

02/10/2026

Enrollment is now OPEN! MindLeaps is offering FREE dance classes in Jackson Heights, Queens, for 7-12 year olds. Classes run every Tuesday/Thursday from 3-5pm at Public School #149.

This program is offered in partnership with NYC Department of Youth and Community Development and Queens Community House. Scan the QR code in the image or click this link https://forms.gle/tNPgc4EQrbhja8h2A to complete a 1-minute registration form or DM for more information.

02/08/2026

Just another day at the MindLeaps Center in Guinea...a quick look at the various dances that 101 children are learning at MindLeaps while also participating in our academic catch up program. Shout out to Marko Markovikj...one of the choreographers whose combinations are being taught in Conakry.

02/06/2026

FLASHBACK…What was happening in Conakry, Guinea, in December?
MindLeaps Performing Group presented an original dance piece at Maison des Jeunes (Nongo). MindLeaps Trainer Salifou co-created this social justice piece along with MindLeaps students. It is about the importance of keeping our environments clean and sanitary - especially our local markets.
Check out excerpts from the special event...

02/02/2026

Today, we honor Rwanda’s heroes — past and present — whose courage, resilience, and vision continue to shape a brighter future. 🇷🇼
At MindLeaps, we are inspired daily by the young heroes who show up, learn, dance, and dream despite their daily challenges.
Happy Heroes Day, Rwanda! 💜💚

01/12/2026

5 Memories from 2025! A look back at some of the special events that took place last year at MindLeaps...

(1) MindLeaps Guinea enrolled 286 formerly out-of-school children in formal education
(2) MindLeaps Uganda Country Director Martha Peace Bua spoke at UNFCU Foundation's 10th Anniversary Gala in NYC
(3) MindLeaps celebrated its 11th year with global staff coming together
(4) MindLeaps NYC students performed for the first time in public at Matthew Westerby Company's Youth Dance Platform
(5) MindLeaps Rwanda continued its partnership with Mercer University to build the financial capacity of female entrepreneurs

Thank you to our 103 staff who made this work - and so much more - possible!

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New York, NY

Telephone

+16469021295

Website

http://www.mindleaps.org/

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