Rhythm is for Everyone uses drum and dance as tools for self-expression, relieving stress and fostering connection. We work with youth and adults of all ages to heal, explore equity, ignite cross-cultural dialogue and engage leadership. We prioritize creating opportunities for youth who are impacted by racism and discrimination. As a learning organization, we understand that continuous education and consistent effort are required to practice anti-racism and participate in Truth & Reconciliation. We acknowledge our diverse community partners and allies who help us to continue growing, learning and improving.
Over the past 15 years we've supported students to express through rhythm and movement in over 50 elementary and high schools within:
York Region (YRDSB) Durham Region (DSB, DCDSB), Clarington (KPRDSB) Peel Region (PDSB), Espoo, Finland (ESBO) and Helsinki, Finland (Rudolf Steiner).
It's been an honour to work with other schools and organizations including;
York University, University of Waterloo, Trent University, Canadian Mental Health Association, ParaSport Ontario, e-CAMP MENTORing, Frontenac Youth Services, Girl Guides of Canada, Children's Aid of Society of Durham Region, African Canadian Cultural Council Foundation, Markham Seniors Activity Centre, Aurora Seniors Centre, Girls Inc., YRDSB Quest Conference, Luminato Festival and Hillside Festival
Elisha MacMillan is a mixed-ancestry Sociologist, Education and Equity Consultant and Certified Professional Co-Active Coach. Growing up living with her grandparents, she experienced intergenerational connection as rich resource for the transfer of wisdom and cultural knowledge. Elisha believes that drum and dance are powerful tools to foster connection and celebrate diversity, shared cultural threads among her ancestors from Jamaica, Scotland and West Africa.
Elisha studied drum and dance for over 20 years which led her to live in West Africa, Ethiopia and Brazil. She had a full-time career performing alongside established artists from across the African continent, touring nationally and internationally from 2005-2009. She founded Rhythm is for Everyone in 2009 and co-founded the InterGenerational Hub with Dr. Leroy Clarke in 2020.