Educate.
Mentor.
Uplift.
Where Young BIPOC Artists Take the Stage
The N'Kenge Foundation is a New Jersey–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2024 by Emmy-, Grammy-, and Tony-nominated Broadway performer N'Kenge.
We invest in young BIPOC artists through education, mentorship, mental wellness programming, and financial literacy — preparing them not only for the stage, but for the life and career that follow.
“Changing Lives One Legacy at a Time”
The N’Kenge Foundation educates, mentors, inspires and uplifts through the transformative power of the arts, amplifying BIPOC voices and stories across all media platforms. We advance mental wellness and financial literacy through in-school and community initiatives, global training programs, and storytelling projects that empower young people to thrive and shape the world around them.
A world where every young BIPOC artist has the training, mentorship, and stage to define their future.
We envision a future where access to the arts is not a matter of zip code, income, or representation — and where the next generation of storytellers shapes culture itself.
What We Stand For
Access Is a Right
Every young person deserves the opportunity to discover and develop their artistic gifts — regardless of economic circumstance or background.
Excellence Inspires
We hold our programming to the highest professional standard, because young artists deserve mentors and experiences that take their dreams seriously.
Community Transforms
The arts build empathy, resilience, and belonging. We create spaces where young people see themselves reflected and uplifted.
Healing Through Art
Creative expression is a pathway to mental wellness. Our programs integrate mindfulness and emotional growth alongside artistic development.
Stories Matter
BIPOC narratives deserve to be centered, amplified, and celebrated. We exist to ensure those stories reach every stage, classroom, and community.
Financial Empowerment
We prepare artists not just for the stage but for life — with financial literacy programming that builds independence and long-term security.
Born From a Performer's Journey
N'Kenge · Founder & Executive Director
The N'Kenge Foundation began the way most movements do — with one person who remembered exactly what it took to get them there.
For three decades, N'Kenge built a career that spans Broadway productions, Carnegie Hall concerts, and international collaborations with the world's most celebrated artists. Along the way she catalogued the moments that made the difference — the masterclass that taught her her instrument, the producer who took a chance on a young performer, the lessons in financial literacy and mental wellness she had to teach herself on the road.
To give the next generation of BIPOC artists what she had — and what she didn't.
That promise became the N'Kenge Foundation, launched in New Jersey in September 2024. The first nine months proved the model: three pilot programs, more than 1,500 students served, and partnerships with Reel Works, Big Apple Talent, Music Will, and the New York City Department of Education.
The story is still being written — by the young performers stepping into spotlights, by the mentors who show up for them, and by every supporter who keeps the lights on.
Who, What, & Why
Board of Directors
Accomplished professionals from theatre, education, finance, and media — united by a commitment to advancing arts access for the next generation.
MEET THE BOARD →What the Press Is Saying
Featured in Playbill, BroadwayWorld, NBC News, and outlets across the country.
VIEW PRESS →By the Numbers
Over $50K raised in the first six months. 1,500+ students served. Three pilot programs. The story so far.
SEE THE IMPACT →Powered by Our Community
The corporations, foundations, and community partners who make this work possible.
Where Your Dollars Go
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 99-4310836), the N'Kenge Foundation is committed to full financial transparency.
- 55%
Direct program costs — workshops, scholarships, and artist stipends.
- 25%
Mental wellness programming and counseling.
- 20%
Program expenses — program staff, contractors, community partnerships, and event production.
Form 990 filings and annual audits are published as they become available. To view our public record, visit our profile on Candid (formerly GuideStar).
View Public Record →