Interactive Workshops & Mentors
Interactive Workshops at the Orry and Tory Kids Festival are designed to give kids hands-on learning experiences through fun and engaging activities led by expert mentors. Each workshop lasts for 1 hour and focuses on building confidence, teamwork, emotional resilience, and life skills in an exciting, age-appropriate way.
These transformative workshops inspire confidence, creativity, and personal growth, preparing kids for lifelong success. Scroll down to learn more about each mentor and the impact they bring to these sessions.
THE CONFIDENT STEPS
Runway Training with
CYRENE RENEE
All AGE GROUPS
About Cyrene Renee
Cyrene Renee is a U.S. Air Force Veteran with over nine years of experience in runway shows at New York Fashion Week, Fashion Week Brooklyn, and Project Runway All Stars.
She is recognized for her work with international magazines and mentoring aspiring models.
Cyrene's Workshop: The Confident Steps
Cyrene will empower kids to walk with confidence and flair, honing their presentation skills for real-world success.
Through impactful modeling techniques and confidence-boosting exercises, she’ll transform them into poised, assured performers ready to shine in any spotlight.
Break down Barriers with
DRUM CAFE
All AGE GROUPS
About Drum Cafe:
Drum Cafe is a global leader in using drumming to unite diverse groups, with over 22 years of experience across 20 countries. Trusted by Fortune 500 companies and world leaders, Drum Cafe transforms team-building events into dynamic and engaging experiences. They have performed at major events such as the Beijing Olympics and FIFA World Cup, and with icons like Will Smith and Shakira.
Drum Cafe Workshop: Drum ‘N’ Learn
Drum Cafe’s workshop for kids teaches teamwork and confidence through drumming. Kids will learn to break down barriers, align with a common goal, and value each person’s unique contribution. Through engaging drumming exercises, they’ll enhance communication skills, foster unity, and experience the joy of creating together.
DRUM ‘N’ LEARN
LITTLE HEARTS, BIG STRENGTH
Mindful Growth with
TAES LEAVITT
4-6 AND 6-8 YEARS OLD
About Taes Leavitt:
Taes Leavitt, known as “Boots” from the Juno Award-winning duo Splash’N Boots, has spent 15 years creating empowering youth content. She co-produced 13 studio albums, performed in 5,000+ shows, and stars in The Big Yellow Boot, airing in millions of homes. Taes has also worked on iconic programs like Sesame Street.
Taes' Workshop: Little Hearts, Big Strength
In her workshop, Taes will teach kids essential mindfulness and emotional resilience through fun and interactive activities. By combining music and storytelling, she helps children build confidence, manage their emotions, and develop the tools they need to handle life’s challenges with a calm and positive mindset.
Inspire, Move, Succeed with
COUSIN DANNY
8-10 AND 10-12 YEARS OLD
About Cousin Danny
Danny Batimana, aka “Cousin Danny,” is a former LA Lakers dance choreographer turned children’s education advocate. Founder of Team Millennia™ and manager of America’s Best Dance Crew champs Poreotics, Danny created the “Happiness is NOW” movement to inspire kids to boost their physical and mental health through movement. He has brought his message to over 600 schools across North America.
Danny’s Workshop: Rhythm and Resilience
Cousin Danny’s high-energy workshop gets kids moving with music and dance, building confidence and improving mental health. Through fun choreography and positive messaging, Danny empowers students to break out of their comfort zones and embrace healthy habits for better academic performance
RHYTHM AND RESILIENCE
OVERCOME AND ACHIEVE
Challenge Perspective with
DUNCAN KIRKWOOD
12-14 AND 14-16 YEARS OLD
About Duncan Kirkwood
Duncan Kirkwood, Director of the Center for Resiliency at Villa Maria College and an Army National Guard Master Resilience Trainer, is a respected speaker and author of Rerouting: Resilience Tools and Tactics. He is renowned for his work in resilience and personal development, earning the National Policy Innovators in Education “Game Changers Award.”
Duncan’s Workshop: Overcome & Achieve
Duncan Kirkwood’s workshop teaches students resilience and self-confidence. Participants learn to overcome setbacks, find their purpose, and navigate social media’s impact on self-esteem. His engaging sessions provide practical tools for personal growth and a new perspective on failure and success.