After an introduction to summer theater inspired a teenage Donna Cotterell to pursue education and a career in the arts, she founded a small theater group called Indaba to give back to kids in her Brockton, Massachusetts home. “I was headed down the wrong path,” Cotterell reflects. “Theater was a way out, and I wanted to provide that to others.”
The word “Indaba” originates from the Zulu language, signifying a gathering or meeting with a specific purpose. Founded in Massachusetts in 2005, Indaba Theater and Associates relocated to Tallahassee in 2015.
The organization is one of six local nonprofits being recognized by the Beatitude Foundation and GiveTLH, a community effort underwritten by philanthropist and businessman Rick Kearney. Each organization’s story will be shared in the Tallahassee Democrat, along with information about how you can help.
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That first production, written by Cotterell, delved into the rich tapestry of family stories spanning five generations and originating from Africa. “This production allowed us to celebrate and showcase the diverse cultural heritage of the motherland of Africa,” Cotterell explains. “We work cooperatively with other performing groups and artists to increase the availability of performance arts to the community, as well as provide performance opportunities to other artists and arts organizations.”
Indaba Theatre and Associates is dedicated to empowering and inspiring young individuals through the transformative power of theater. Cotterell shares the story of Ashley, a bright and talented teenager who, despite her potential, faced numerous obstacles, including financial constraints and self-esteem issues. “When she learned about Indaba Theatre’s afterschool program, she decided to give it a try,” Cotterell explains.
Through various workshops, rehearsals, and performances, she discovered her love for acting, storytelling, and the magic of the stage. Indaba’s team of dedicated instructors and mentors not only provided expert guidance in acting and theater but also served as positive role models.
“She went from being a shy and reserved teenager to a poised and expressive young performer. Her ability to communicate, both on and off the stage, flourished. She excelled academically, gained leadership skills, and became an advocate for the arts in her community,” shares Cotterell.
“We not only nurture young artists but also empower them to become resilient, confident, and compassionate individuals ready to face the world’s challenges,” Cotterell said. “Indaba’s dedication to unlocking potential has a ripple effect, touching the lives of countless young people like Ashley, who go on to shine brightly in their communities and beyond.”
Indaba Inc. isn’t just about acting, singing, and dancing – it’s about nurturing young minds, fostering confidence, and instilling values that will guide them in every endeavor. Currently, Indaba’s most pressing need is funding to continue its Summer Theatre Camp.
“African American-led nonprofits receive a mere 2.7% of funding, nationally,” explains Cotterell. “Your support covers the costs that are essential for creating a nurturing and inspiring environment for our young talents. We are currently creating a sponsorship drive for the upcoming giving season to ensure that our counselors, vendors, and resources are provided for the next camp.”
You can learn more about Indaba Theater and Associates at indabaflorida.com.
The #GiveTLH series will culminate in November with a chance for Tallahassee readers to vote for their favorite profiled nonprofit. The stories will be compiled on give.tallahassee.com.
GiveTLH honorees each receive a $1,000 grant from the Beatitude Foundation and a 12-month membership to United Partners for Human Services, a collaboration of over 200 human service organizations focused on advocacy, engagement, and community education.
After reader voting in November, the top three organizations will also receive grants in the amounts of $2,500, $5,000, and $10,000, respectively, and a free registration and exhibitor booth space for the United Partners for Human Services Annual Conference. The first place winning organization will receive $5,000 in services from BowStern Marketing, as well as LocaliQ for a total of $10,000 in marketing services.
About #GiveTLH
#GiveTLH, underwritten by the Beatitude Foundation and Rick Kearney, is a look at six nonprofits in our community and how you can help them in their life-changing work. At the conclusion of this series, Kearney will award grants to the nonprofit that gets the most votes in an online poll. For more profiles, visit give.tallahassee.com.
