ISHAKA
Cultural Group

Ishaka was founded in Ottawa in 2007 by a group of young women originally from Burundi. The word Ishaka means “Will”. The will to make a difference in the world, the will to be good citizens and great leaders in all activities in which the members will be involved. Through the group, the will to keep cultural identity, the will to share it and add it to the Canadian diversity are strong facets of our work.
The group shares a message of peace through the grace and elegance of dance. The dancers strive to be role models in the community and they teach the young ones to strive for the same.

They take the audience on a voyage to the heart of Africa. And for the children, they are the bridge - the bridge between Canada and Burundi, the bridge between their new country and their roots. Ishaka teaches leadership through dance. The balance and combination of energy and elegance is something that always strikes those who experience Burundian dance for the first time.

Ishaka is proud to represent Burundi and be able to help people in need through their shows in Ottawa. Ishaka has been involved in different charity activities such as fundraising money for churches, schools, camps, and helping to establish retirement homes in Burundi.