We had the good fortune of connecting with Khinuu Nefer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Khinuu, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind the success of my business has been dedication. This year marks 6 years in business and it hasn’t been easy. At 3 years in I decided to quit my job as a Social Worker and focus on my business full time. My commitment to the preservation of my culture has bloomed into a business that no longer feels like work. Day in and day out my focus has always remained on community and the children we serve. My business is more than just teaching dance we are dedicated to the African Arts. And if we’ve only impacted one child out of the hundreds we’ve served. Then we have done more than we’ve ever set out for. Dedication, self-promotion, hard work, and love of craft have kept us successful.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m an Atlanta native and moved to South Florida about 8 years ago. I’ve danced for as long as I can remember. Dancing has always been apart of my life. I remember my very first African dance class I was 8 years old. My dance teachers name was Ms.Natalie. She taught us at the Boys and Girls Club in Georgia. I remember her face and her voice and the excitement I felt when classes were approaching. Today I make that difference for young boys and girls. I’m a Professional West African Dance Instructor. I own the only Children’s West African Dance company in South Florida. Working with children is a special craft. I love children. Starting my performing arts company hasn’t come easy and I still face many challenges today in terms of funding. Because I have an end goal of owning our own theatre. I will continue to take baby steps to ensure that the children I work with will always have a safe place to dance.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to thank my children and my closest friends. Owning a business takes up time. And I’ve especially taken time away from my oldest son. He has been so patient and understanding over these few years, Business events have been booked at the same time as martial arts practice and I’ve had to choose business many times. My friends have been a listening ear when I need to vent or even cry. Failed business deals or a client who doesn’t keep their end of the deal. It can be a bit overwhelming. So I’d like to thank my two boys and my good friends Jontae and Fatou.

Website: www.afriquengozi.com

Instagram: afrique_ngozi

Facebook: Afrique Ngozi Dance and Drum Inc

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.