Instructor: Terrell Strayhorn, Ph.D.

Across the African Diaspora, the spirit of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—has been a guiding philosophy that shapes identity, community, and resilience. This interactive workshop explores Ubuntu as a foundation for belonging and the collective strength of Blackness. Participants experience storytelling, dialogue, and reflection to examine how Black identity is deeply rooted in shared history, cultural pride, and communal responsibility.

Using examples from history, activism, and everyday life, we’ll discuss how Ubuntu challenges individualism and instead uplifts interconnectedness. How does this philosophy help us navigate spaces where we feel unseen or excluded? How can we use Ubuntu to build belonging in schools, workplaces, and communities?

This session is designed for students, educators, and community leaders who want to understand the power of Ubuntu and its relevance to Black experiences across the globe. By the end, participants will leave with actionable strategies to cultivate belonging, strengthen community ties, and affirm Black identity in meaningful ways.