Ridvan Foxhall

Ridvan Foxhall has over 15 years of experience advancing education, arts, science, health and racial healing in the City of Peekskill, especially in under-resourced communities. She diligently works with communities to inspire race unity through workshops and trainings in diversity and inclusion.

Ms. Foxhall is the Founder and Executive Director of New Era Creative Space (NECS), a non-profit organization with the mission of inspiring stronger communities through creative programs. NECS offers innovative programs for children with an emphasis on developing moral capabilities alongside their intellectual and artistic talents.

NECS provides after-school, weekend, and summer programs for youth, ages eight through 18. They participate in classes in the arts including theater, dance, photography, and digital animation. In 2018, the organization piloted an Apprenticeship and Mentorship program to create a vocational pathway for local high school students to achieve future employment in the STEAM fields. NECS is currently working on acquiring funding to further develop this program.

NECS coordinates group programs that foster leadership abilities and encourage youth to engage with their community. The Virtues Program uses creative mediums including storytelling, music and cooperative games to encourage the development of ideas including empathy and justice. The Junior Youth Leadership and Empowerment Club, and the Social Justice Club educate and guide youth to become more compassionate and connected to the wider society.

In 2006, Ms. Foxhall spearheaded the establishment of a chapter of The Children’s Theatre Company in Peekskill. Every year, the Theater Company provides creative opportunities to a diverse group of around two dozen children. Students build character and confidence on stage through the performing arts. The program instills a sense that they can share in the communities’ interests and be a positive voice of change in the world. As of 2019, the Children’s Theatre program is an independent theatre operating under the leadership of New Era Creative Space.

Ms. Foxhall holds a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy and is a certified Parenting Educator. She is a licensed Occupational therapist and has been working with children and youth with special needs and their families since 2010. Ms. Foxhall offers workshops for parents, educators and organizations on topics such as positive discipline, conflict resolution, race unity and cultural responsive teaching. Originally from Nigeria, she resides in Peekskill with her husband and two children.