Kwanzaa 365 Connection: Building Wellness, Confidence, and Community Through Movement

What if improving mental health, building stronger communities, and helping young people develop confidence could start with something as simple as movement?

That is the mission behind Kwanzaa 365 Connection, a Savannah-based nonprofit founded by Imani Poole that uses dance, drumming, mindfulness, and cultural arts to promote wellness and connection throughout the year.

In a recent episode of Savannah Spotlight, hosts Renee LaSalle and Michelle Horne sat down with Poole to discuss how Kwanzaa 365 Connection is creating opportunities for people of all ages to experience the physical, emotional, and social benefits of movement-based programming rooted in African cultural traditions.

More Than Dance Classes

While many people may initially see dance as simply a form of exercise or entertainment, Poole explained that Kwanzaa 365 Connection was built around something much deeper.

Drawing from more than two decades of training in West African dance traditions from Mali, Guinea, and Senegal, she has witnessed firsthand how movement, rhythm, and community can positively impact both physical and mental well-being.

Through weekly classes, workshops, performances, and community events, the organization creates spaces where participants can feel connected, supported, and empowered.

The goal is not simply teaching dance. It is creating opportunities for people to experience wellness through movement while strengthening relationships within the community.

Supporting Mental Health Through Movement

One of the most powerful themes discussed during the interview was the connection between movement and mental wellness.

Poole shared how dance, mindfulness, and rhythmic activities help participants regulate their nervous systems, become more connected to their bodies, and experience a sense of grounding and belonging.

Classes often incorporate community-centered experiences such as dancing in circles, encouraging one another, and moving together alongside live African drumming.

These shared experiences help create an environment where participants feel safe, connected, and supported while reducing stress and promoting emotional well-being.

Building Confidence in the Next Generation

Kwanzaa 365 Connection’s impact extends far beyond the dance floor.

The organization’s youth programs help young people develop confidence, leadership skills, communication abilities, and meaningful social connections.

Poole shared the story of her own daughter, who has grown into a leadership role through participation in the program. From performing with the group to leading warmups for younger participants, she has developed confidence and a stronger sense of self through the experience.

Those same benefits are being seen in many of the children who participate in Kwanzaa 365 Connection’s programs.

By creating opportunities for youth to connect with peers, mentors, and positive role models, the organization helps foster personal growth that reaches far beyond the classroom.

Creating Community Through Culture

At its core, Kwanzaa 365 Connection is about bringing people together.

Whether through weekly classes, community workshops, cultural performances, or annual celebrations, the organization focuses on building relationships and creating spaces where people can connect through shared experiences.

One of the organization’s signature events is the Afro Wellness Experience, an annual event that combines wellness workshops, dance, yoga, self-care education, live performances, local vendors, and community resources into a single day focused on health and empowerment.

The event also highlights local organizations and service providers who offer valuable resources that many community members may not otherwise discover.

Get Involved

Kwanzaa 365 Connection welcomes participants of all ages and experience levels.

Whether you’re interested in dance, drumming, cultural arts, volunteering, or simply finding a new way to connect with your community, there are opportunities to get involved throughout the year.

As Poole shared during the interview, “If you can walk, you can dance.”

To learn more about classes, performances, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events, visit www.kwanzaaconnect.org.

Watch the full Savannah Spotlight interview to learn how Kwanzaa 365 Connection is helping build a healthier, more connected Savannah community through movement, culture, and wellness.

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