Alkebulan Cultural Center

Background: Founded by artists Versie Mae Richardson (renowned Mezzo-Soprano), Emerson R. Terry (Visual Artist) and Educator Dr. Maria Battle, the Alkebulan Cultural Center quickly grew from it’s first home at a storefront located at Orange Grove and Worcester to it’s current location, the historical landmark Pasadena firehouse. The incredible space provides a lovely backdrop to any event, and housed an array of activities and programs that revitalized the Northwest Pasadena Community through the arts. 

After a short hiatus, following the passing of Versie Mae Richardson, Alkebulan continued the legacy of providing quality arts training and services under the 6 yr leadership of Dianne Lewis. In spite of the challenges brought on by a national economic crisis and swift demographic changes due to gentrification and rising housing costs, the Alkebulan Cultural Center kept it’s doors open! 

Excitedly, summer of 2017, Dianne Lewis and the resilient Alkebulan, invited artists Everett and Marjani Saunders as new leadership. Building on the tremendous work of Dianne Lewis and in partnership with a bold and affirming Board Team, that includes the cogent expertise of non-profit consultant KirkPatrick Tyler of Fig Tree Development Group, Alkebulan is now poised to take flight as a rising star for Arts and Culture in Northwest Pasadena. 

Our Mission: To provide knowledge and awareness of African and African American heritage through culturally informed educational activities which nurture individual abilities and build confidence in academic, social and artistic achievement.