By Josephine Mazyck | Executive Director
We’re so happy that spring is here! Like the season, our mission is rooted in growth, renewal, and possibility. Each young person we serve carries their own story of resilience, and it is our joy to nurture those stories into full bloom.
In this season, I am reminded that change doesn’t happen overnight—it happens moment by moment, heart by heart. It happens when we listen deeply, show up consistently, and create spaces where young people feel seen, valued, and loved.
Your belief in our work is part of that growth. Every conversation, every act of care, every show of support helps our community thrive. As we step further into this season of renewal, let’s continue to walk together with hope and intention.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Peace & Blessings,
Josephine Mazyck
Executive Director.
Fihankra Akoma Ntaoso (FAN)
April Highlights
FAN Merch Now Available!
Show your support for FAN with track pants, baseball caps, buttons, and more! Check out the FAN store and secure your merch!
Get Tickets for FAN's 20th Birthday
Join us for FAN-DC’s 20th Anniversary Celebration – Linked Hearts, Endless Impact: 20 Years! On Friday, May 13, 2025, at a historic home in Georgetown, we come together to honor the extraordinary strength, creativity, and resilience of the youth we serve. Our programs celebrate the unique talents of Black and Brown youth in Washington, DC—especially in Ward 8 and surrounding communities—by creating safe, nurturing spaces where they can thrive.
From Anacostia to Kenya
This month, FAN proudly partnered with Oyé Palaver Hut to present From Anacostia to Kenya, a joyful and thought-provoking play that transported us across continents through the eyes of a curious and courageous young boy. With themes of friendship, bravery, culture, language, and environmental respect, the performance sparked important conversations and filled the room with laughter, dancing, and connection. A special thank you to everyone who joined us—it was a hit! We’re so grateful to Oyé Palaver Hut for reminding us that even across oceans, our stories are deeply linked.
Save the Date: Radical Wellness Fair - May 10
Our Radical Wellness Fair is back! A day dedicated to holistic well-being, this event brings together mental health resources, wellness activities, and community support for youth and families. Come out and join us at 2815 Stanton Rd. SE Washington, DC 20020 from 11:00 a.m. -4:00 p.m.
FAN Peer Spotlight:
During a lesson on role models, our kids didn’t hesitate to name one of their own. They described her as “nice” and “someone who helps us work through conflict,” and said she always does her best to support others. Amber's kindness, calm presence, and leadership remind us that being a role model isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, staying grounded, and making space for others to grow.
Thank you for being a shining example of what peer support looks like in action!
FAN Community Spotlight: Buffalo Soldiers Representative
What brought you into the FAN community?
“I was introduced to Ms. Mazyck by the STAND Foundation, Inc. I grew up in a community very similar to that of DC Wards Seven and Eight. I recall what it was like to decide what I wanted to become and pursue in life. I also recall the challenges as well as where my help came from and I choose to give back.”
Why is it important for young people to learn about conservation?
“All beings in existence are relative and relevant. Greenery and vegetation replenishes our environment. Bugs, Birds, Insects, etc. pollinate, cross-pollinate, and add fuels to the replenishment of our climate. We are the primary consumers of our climate unless we are consciously aware and conduct ourselves accordingly.
Earth Day presents an opportunity to conduct deliberate conservation and earth friendly tasks, and projects.”
Tell us more about your work with the Buffalo Soldiers!
“I have served in various capacities with the Buffalo Soldiers, e.g., National President, National Executive Director, National Buffalo Soldier Corps (Youth Committee Chair), Chapter President, 1st Vice President, and Secretary. Traditionally, we provide interpretive sessions on the separate Black military units' achievements. Today, we also partner with other organizations to expand our interpretive sessions, career educational research, and financial literacy.”
Links:
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