herARTS in Action

10/28/2026

A heavy fall rain and downed leaves don’t mix. This is one of the reasons why you need to clean your leaves and stormdrain: prevent flooding. In order for only rain to go down the drain, you need to make sure they’re clear of debris.

Learn more in, Only Rain Down the Drain. Order your copy today.
herartsinaction.org/shop

10/26/2026

This weekend we attended the 3rd Annual Djigui Corporation West Africa North America Trade & Business Summit in Philadelphia. We built new, and expanded existing, partnerships and collaborations.

We were excited to share our three books about Burkina Faso, and our work there, with H.E. Ambassador Coulibaly from the Embassy of Burkina Faso to the USA.

If you are interested in how we’re connecting people, systems, resources, and ideas for meaningful impact, reach out! Trust is the foundation. Alignment is the strategy. Impact is the result.

10/07/2026

Yesterday I shared the books. Today, a little more of the stories behind the stories.

Nanou’s Promise grew from relationships and experiences in Burkina Faso. Only Rain Down the Drain grew from student inspiration and participation in storm drain mural projects. And Global Rhythms grew from the artwork and stories of a community connected by USAID.

Different books. Different beginnings. But all rooted in people, place, connection, and creativity.

Explore them at herartsinaction.org/shop.
across socials

10/07/2026

Did you know I’ve published two books the last two months?! Looking at them all together, I’m reminded that while the stories are different, they’ve grown from many of the same things that have shaped my life and work: Art, culture, community, place, curiosity and possibility.

The three Nanou’s Promise books grew from my years of work and relationships in Burkina Faso with herARTS in Action exploring water, education, art and everyday life through stories for children.

“Only Rain Down the Drain” takes young readers on a very different adventure. Following Reva the Raindrop readers are introduced to water, storm drains, and caring for the environment.

And “Global Rhythms: Remembering USAID Through the Arts,” brings together the artwork and stories of former USAID workers. It preserves experiences from around the world through the arts.

Children. Art. Water. Culture. Education. International development. Apparently my books have the same problem I do- They refuse to fit neatly into one box.

But every one of them comes back to something I believe deeply. Stories can help us understand places beyond our own, see possibilities differently, and connect with one another.

If you’re looking for a book for a child, classroom, library, or your coffee table, I’d love for you to take a look.

Order: herartsinaction.org/shop
Socials:

And if you already own one of my books, tell me which one! I’d love to know where they’ve ended up.

10/02/2026

Last year, founder Sarah had the opportunity to speak at the International Business Forum Las Vegas, bringing together our work in Africa, the arts, international development, and building partnerships across cultures. This November, we’re excited to return for GIBFAMF 2026, in Gardena (LAX). Especially since herARTS in Action is an event partner.

For more than a decade, our work has connected deeply with communities across West Africa. GIBFAMF brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, educators, community leaders, international guests and members of the African Diaspora around a simple idea: culture can be a bridge to connection, collaboration and opportunity.

The 8th Annual Gardena International Business Forum, Cultural Arts & Music Festival takes place November 20–23 in Gardena, California, with the International Business Forum, cultural festival, fashion and music, fundraising gala and awards ceremony, and opportunities for international networking.

In addition to the event flyers, we’re including a few photos from last year because that capture what we appreciated most about this gathering — the people, the cultures, and the conversations that happen when we actually get in the same room.

If you work in international development, business, education, the arts, diplomacy, community development, or across the African diaspora, we would love to see you there! Make sure to say Sarah sent you. We’d especially love to reconnect with colleagues and friends from across Africa.

One world. One stage. Building bridges. Inspiring futures.

November 20–23, 2026
Gardena, California

Tickets & event information: www.GIBFAMF.com

07/29/2026

Last week students at North had an open studio with artist Sarah. They were able to explore new mediums and techniques. Students said they liked an open studio style because they could make their own choices with no pressure, which helps with their self confidence and will make them to be better students. Partner For Student Success United Way of Central Minnesota

07/28/2026

Are you new to herARTS in Action? Check out this interview with the super talented Namketa Media last year that talks about our beginning inspiration, our struggles, and what we’ve achieved.

In this episode of Atypical Journey, Sarah Drake shares her inspiri...

07/28/2026

Last night in NYC, Founder Sarah participated in the Africa Everything annual fundraiser. We are excited to partner with them this year to support our students that are 12 years old +. Thanks to our NYC friends for showing their support! We are currently fundraising for our scholarship program. Please donate as able. Thanks!

07/12/2026

At Great River Children's Museum with Sauk River Watershed District, H2You, and Stearns Conservation District today, Sarah read for the 1st time! Plus, families made individual and collective art inspired by water and nature. Order your copy now!

07/11/2026

See you today at Great River Children's Museum for Water Wonders! Story time in the half hour.