Ubuntu Cultural Immersion STEAM Youth Summer Camp

Categories:
Event
Location:
FIBC 1141 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ
Let's Go
Date/Time:
June 3, 2025 8:00 AM
Info:

This four-week camp is designed to celebrate the spirit of Ubuntu — "I am because we are" — by nurturing your child’s sense of identity, belonging, and purpose.

Description:

Welcome to the Afro Scouts Ubuntu Cultural Immersion Youth Summer Camp! We are honored to have your child join us for a powerful and meaningful summer of growth, creativity, cultural exploration, and community building. This four-week camp is designed to celebrate the spirit of Ubuntu"I am because we are" — by nurturing your child’s sense of identity, belonging, and purpose.

Camp will run from June 3 to June 27, 2025, Tuesday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Early drop-off begins at 6:30 a.m. and late pickup is available until 5:30 p.m. The camp will be hosted at First Institutional Baptist Church in Phoenix, Arizona.

Led by Program Director Zoe Sarabo and supported by a dedicated team of educators and cultural leaders, the camp maintains a 15:2 student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring each child receives individual attention and support.

🌍 Our Philosophy

At the core of our summer camp is the belief that children thrive when they see themselves reflected in what they learn. Ubuntu Camp is a safe, inspiring space where youth of African descent can:

  • Celebrate and explore their cultural identity
  • Build confidence and leadership skills
  • Express creativity through arts, music, and movement
  • Learn new skills that connect them to the broader world

Each week’s theme is rooted in Ubuntu values: Belonging, Speaking Up, Unity in the Community, and Cultural Expression & Legacy.

🏕️ Curriculum Overview by Age Group

Kindergarten

Focus: Creative Expression, Identity, and CommunityThese youngest campers will be introduced to Ubuntu through play-based learning. Activities emphasize imagination, belonging, and self-awareness.

Key Activities:

  • Identity-building self-portraits
  • Cultural music (rhythms, kazoos, dance)
  • African folktales and dramatized storytelling
  • SEL through games and song
  • Group art projects centered on community and family
  • Movement and physical activity every day
  • Hands-on crafts like African jewelry making and mask art

1st – 3rd Grade

Focus: Storytelling, Confidence, and Personal VoiceThis group builds on foundational identity work, helping students develop self-confidence and begin exploring leadership.

Key Activities:

  • Story-based SEL lessons (speaking up, using our voices)
  • Group songs, spoken word, and creative writing
  • African drumming circles and musical exploration
  • Introduction to entrepreneurship and creativity through art
  • Drama and performance-based workshops
  • Visual arts including painting, weaving, and wearable culture
  • STEM-based crafts (e.g., simple building projects)
  • PE, games, and fitness sessions

4th – 6th Grade

Focus: Leadership, Innovation, and Cultural LiteracyCampers at this level begin to explore deeper concepts of identity, justice, and innovation while applying creative and critical thinking.

Key Activities:

  • Weekly SEL workshops focused on empathy, leadership, and unity
  • Hands-on STEM & Innovation (Code Academy, sustainable design)
  • Cultural history: African kingdoms, migration, and modern movements
  • Visual art expression through symbolism, color theory, and mixed media
  • Intro to entrepreneurship & innovation (creating a product)
  • Music workshops (instruments, songwriting, collaboration)
  • Drama & performance
  • Community leadership projects

7th – 8th Grade

Focus: Cultural Identity, Advocacy, and Creative ExpressionThese campers will deepen their understanding of social justice and cultural heritage while creating projects that express their unique voices.

Key Activities:

  • African diasporic history: resistance, liberation, and innovation
  • Creative writing and spoken word development
  • Theater production and ensemble work
  • Peer-led discussions on current events and community challenges
  • Ubuntu Talks – mini presentations led by campers
  • Entrepreneurship sessions with youth business coaches
  • Group art installations based on community issues
  • Physical and mental wellness sessions

High School (9th – 12th Grade)

Focus: Self-Leadership, Mentorship, and Cultural LegacyOur oldest campers will engage in advanced programming around Black excellence, self-determination, and leadership. These students will also serve as peer mentors to younger groups.

Key Activities:

  • Weekly Ubuntu Leadership Summits
  • Legacy projects: digital storytelling, zines, and exhibits
  • Deep dive into Pan-African movements and Black changemakers
  • Cultural Arts Labs (guitar, poetry, production)
  • College and career exploration tied to the arts, culture, and advocacy
  • Entrepreneurship development (youth business challenge)
  • Capstone cultural showcase
  • Service projects supporting community organizations

🚌 Friday Field Trips

Each Friday, campers will embark on exciting field trips aligned with the weekly themes. These outings will include visits to museums, cultural centers, nature experiences, and creative spaces. Permission slips and detailed itineraries will be sent out at the beginning of each week.

💰 Camp Tuition

  • $520 per student for the full 4-week program ($130 / Week)
  • $200 discount ($50 discount per week) for each additional sibling registered in the same household

Scholarship opportunities may be available. Please contact us for more information.

📝 What’s Next?

Once registered, you’ll receive links to the following:

  • Field Trip Release Forms
  • Camper Information Form
  • Information on meals, drop-off/pickup procedures, and family engagement events

We can’t wait to create lasting memories and meaningful impact with your child this summer. Thank you for entrusting us with their growth, creativity, and cultural journey. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.