We acknowledge our Beloved Father, Abdou Kounta, co founder of the Thiossane West African Dance Institute.
We pay homage to the traditions, culture, customs and unity of the African diaspora on this day of his birth.
Grand Kounta’s legacy reminds us of the strength of community and the importance of honoring our roots. His influence continues to inspire generations through drum, dance, and the spirit of togetherness.
Our lives are richer in culture with global awareness and connectivity because of his presence.
KountaHands
Thiossane Institute
Thiossane (pronounced cha- sahn) was formed to share authentic West African Dance.
03/24/2026
THE TIME IS NOW
Step into THE NEW ERA.
Thiossane West African Dance Institute is bringing NEW WORKS to the stage… rhythm, power, tradition, and Black African culture all in one unforgettable night.
May 16
3:00 PM and 7:30 PM
Historic Lincoln Theatre
Scan the QR code or visit www.thiossaneinst.org and secure your seat NOW.
Don’t just hear about it… be in the room.
See you in class tonight!
6:30pm!!
02/15/2026
Happy Birthday to our Co Founder, Suzan Bradford Kounta. For 26 years, under your leadership, Thiossane West African Dance Institute has broken barriers, preserved history, and transformed lives through the power of West African dance and cultural education. Your commitment to excellence, mentorship, and a 100% graduation rate reflects the strength of your vision and your dedication to our community.
We honor you today and thank you for your leadership, your sacrifice, and the legacy you continue to build. We are forever grateful. Happy Birthday, Suzan Bradford Kounta.
02/11/2026
As we honor Black History Month, our Co-Founder, Suzan Bradford Kounta, will be part of a powerful panel for the Ubuntu Series: Columbus, Ohio’s Black Diaspora – United We Stand, Divided We Fall.
Ubuntu is a South African concept that we are all interconnected and the positive actions of one benefit all. Join the conversation as we reflect on strength, legacy, and community here in Columbus.
Thursday, Feb. 12
5:00–7:30 PM
Jerry Hammond Building
1111 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205
RSVP by scanning the QR code. All information is on the flyer.
TONIGHT!!! Adult Dance Class is happening with TWADI
Come warm up, feel the rhythm, and connect through West African music and dance.
Register online or in person.
02/07/2026
We’re looking forward to seeing you tomorrow for Youth Dance Class.
Register online or in person.
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02/03/2026
We’re looking forward to seeing you tonight for Drum Class and Adult Dance Class with TWDAI.
Join us for drum class led by Birame “Baye” Mboup, and come warm up, feel the rhythm, and connect through West African music and dance.
Register online or in person.
02/02/2026
Thiossane West African Dance Institute proudly celebrates Black History Month as we honor the legacy, culture, rhythm, and resilience of our people.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, a powerful milestone reminding us that our stories, artistry, and traditions deserve to be seen, heard, and preserved.
Join us tomorrow at the Ohio Statehouse for their Black History Month program.
We begin at 12 noon.
Come experience culture in motion, history in rhythm, and community in celebration.
01/31/2026
Tuesday, Feb. 3 at noon in the Atrium, we are excited to announce will be our first performers for our Black History Month Programs! This is a free and public event.
Join the Thiossane (pronounced cha-sahn) Institute for a special performance and experience the richness of West African culture through dance and music to create a space of learning and growth through traditional African culture! There will be a question-and-answer session after the performance.
See other groups performing at different dates here:
https://www.ohiostatehouse.org/calendar/event?id=1745
On January 24th 2026, we gathered in rhythm, movement, and spirit to honor the legacy of our BELOVED co-founder, Father Abdou Kounta. Hosted by his incomparable daughter, Ami Kounta, we immersed ourselves in the essence of West African dance and the rhythms of the African Diaspora.
Stay connected and learn more by visiting ThiossaneINST.org.
wearethevillage
01/31/2026
🚨We will cancel community class tomorrow due to the extremely cold weather. We will resume next Saturday at the regular schedule times.
Be well and warm!
Thiossane
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51 Jefferson Avenue 2A
Columbus, OH
43205