From the branches of Barefoot Ballet, directed by Osunlade “Torkwase” Fatunmise (circa 1988), grew the need for sistahs to learn to play the rhythms used to teach and maintain their dance classes. In response, the seed for the ensemble was planted in 1991 when Ramatu Afegbua Mahmud Sabbatt organized sistahs for jam sessions in cityparks of Atlanta. Formalized in 1993, under the direction of Artistic Director Emeritus Omelika Kuumba for a debut public dance and drum performance, Giwayen Mata soon excelled as an ensemble of trailblazing women who dared to play drums primarily played by men. Known as the dynamic, soul-stirring, all sistah, dance, percussion and vocal ensemble based in Atlanta, Giwayen Mata creates and presents performance works that celebrate the lives of women of the African Diaspora. Our innovative stage productions include private and community events, educational institutions, mainstage arts venues and professionally curated concerts. Giwayen Mata is also renowned for teaching community dance and drum classes, and for offering school-based programs including lecture-demonstrations and workshops. Currently under the artistic direction of Tambra Omiyale Harris, Giwayen Mata is an active collaborator in artistic projects that uplift the legacy of cultural perseverance through the lenses of African descended people native to the Atlanta area.