Our Candidates
Our initial project is set to bring eight talented women from developing countries to the U.S. for a transformative two-month program in late 2025. Through intensive training and a performance tour across Colorado, these women will not only enhance their artistic skills but also become powerful ambassadors of change. Partnering with esteemed organizations like The Palestinian Circus School, Cirquenciel in Lebanon, Sencirk in Senegal, Circus Ramba in Rwanda, Arba Minch Circus in Ethiopia, and Circus Zambia, we aim to foster cultural exchange and empowerment. Each participant’s journey, supported by a $10,000 investment, promises to create a ripple effect, inspiring their communities and families while challenging societal norms and advancing gender equity.
Asil from Palestine
Disciplines: trapeze, poi, hula-hoop, partner acrobatics.
“I have been passionate about circus arts since I was 15.”
“I am resourceful, responsible, and resilient.”
Asil looks forward to “delivering captivating performances that resonate with audiences,” and “making a meaningful impact in the world of circus arts.”
Tracy from Lebanon
Disciplines: Aerial, hulahoop, partner acrobatics
“I always loved to do acrobatics, cheerleading, gymnastics.”
“I used to try things at home alone because we also didn’t have enough money for me to take classes.”
Tracy “decided to give it my all and become professional, dedicate my life to my sport. I am so excited for next chapters!”
Tala from Palestine
Disciplines: aerial, partner acrobatics, flow arts
“I love.…when I’m on stage showing to people the things that make me feel free and safe.”
“I am an ambitious and spontaneous individual who loves helping others and spreading joy through my work in cireus.”
“My passion drives me to constantly seek new challenges and opportunities for growth.”
Marietou from Senegal
Disciplines: Aerial, contortion, acrobatics
“What I enjoy most about performing is that I can be the voice of the voiceless.”
“My relationship with my parents and my brothers is now stable. But it was a complicated moment because of the choice I made to be a circus artist because in African culture, it is not judged as a profession that a woman can pursue.”
Mariétou wants to be an inspiration for women artists. She aims to revolutionize the environment by training future generations.
Tihunzer from Ethiopia
Disciplines: Contortion, partner acrobatics, hula-hoop, dance
I have “I love circus because it is my life.”
“Even though I have gone through ups and downs, I don’t want to stop performing circus.
“In the developing countries there is more focus on men. Therefore, once I get this opportunity, I will be a pioneer to girls in my community and will help them to be international circus artists.”
Yeamlaknesh from Ethiopia
Disciplines: Contortion, acrobatics, hand balancing
“I have performed at different stages in Ethiopia, Turkey, and India.”
“I am supporting my parents from my monthly income from the circus performance.”
“I would like to inspire girls from my neighborhood to join the circus and change their life.”
Ingebire from Rwanda
Disciplines: Ballet, jazz, hip-hop, African dance
“Dancing feels like a complete expression of myself”
“Creating a powerful personal connection (dance) helps me mentally and physically…dancing is life.”
“I have performed as a ballerina on many big stages around the world”
Angel from Zambia
Disciplines: acrobatics, Chinese Pole, aerial, stilts
“Pursuing circus training wasn’t always easy. As the eldest sibling, my parents initially didn’t want me to join circus training because they needed me to stay home and help care for my younger siblings.”
“For me, the circus is a place where I can be myself -or anyone I want to be. It’s a space that allows me to express myself through the arts in any possible way.”
“I want to learn, become more independent and have experiences to share when I come back home.”
