Diallo A. Sumbry
Diallo A. Sumbry is a courageous, creative, connected, authentic, visionary leader.
A Trenton, NJ native and self-proclaimed honorary Washingtonian, Diallo was formally educated through elementary and high school in African-centered schools. He maintains a deep understanding and pride of his African ancestry and the contributions of his people to the world. He is extremely passionate about the plight of African American people and understands the importance of well-rounded education in breaking the cycle of social, emotional, psychological and economic stagnation that continues to plague communities of African people worldwide. This understanding of the African American journey has been celebrated in various programs created and implemented by Diallo, including the inaugural Umoja on U Celebration of Community Leaders in 2010 and various entertainment concerts and programs that implement African art and performance.
Diallo received his BA in English in 1999 and his Master’s of Public Administration in 2003 – both from the University of the District of Columbia (UDC). As fate would have it, what started as a part-time work-study assignment with the Student Employment Program at UDCbecame a continuation of a family legacy of educators and leaders with higher institutions, stretching back to the early 1800's.
For over 15 years, Diallo has worked with UDC’s Office for College Preparatory Programs. He served various capacities in the Trio programs Upward Bound and Talent Search as well as UDC’s New Student Orientation Chair and an adjunct faculty member teaching English Fundamentals, Reading Improvement and Freshman Orientation. His work within the University community and throughout the District of Columbia Educational community has earned him a solid reputation as a committed, hard-working team player and leader committed to youth development and college access for all young people
Diallo grew up performing as a West African Drummer and is quite comfortable in front of crowds. Other than education, art is his parallel passion. Diallo is just as passionate about creating, supporting and producing art – music, dance, and theater – as he is education. As an orator, Diallo is clear, captivating and his practical messages often keep his audiences amused yet resonate far beyond the initial presentation.
A proven youth advocate, educator and budding entrepreneur, Diallo has dedicated his life to widening life-changing opportunities for youth in underserved communities through education and art. He serves as the founder and president of The Adinkra Group, an Edutainment Resource Company in Washington, DC.
Diallo is a married father of two, who lives by the motto, "Everybody can't do everything, but if everyone does something, then everything will get done."
An expert and ambassador onthe African American journey, College access, and arts and entertainment, Diallo serves as a public speaker and resource to organizations on topics ranging from College Access to African and African American culture, including Kwanzaa and Black History.To book Diallo for speaking engagements, email or call Natasha Brown at 240-304-6354 or for The Adinkra Group bookings, call (202) 286–2688 or .