The Full Story
A Journey to Preserve The Legacy of Pierre Sandor Diabankouezi
Treasured not only as a Master Teacher but as a beloved Elder, whose wisdom continues to be a guiding light in my personal journey and that with Fua Dia Kongo. His story is a testament to the resilience, struggle, and brilliance of our Ancestors—one that deserves to be remembered, honored, and shared for generations to come.
The Calling
The calling to document Tata Sandor's legacy led me in 2023 to launch an initiative through O.Y.A. Strategies Production, with generous support from ACTA's Living Cultures Grant. This project aimed at preserving his oral histories, songs, and the cultural narratives woven into his Mikwe paintings. Titled From Whence I Came: Expressions of Congo, it marked the first phase of a larger vision to honor Tata Sandor’s profound contributions to African dance and culture in the Bay Area and beyond.
Fulfilling His Final Wish
In 2022, Tata Sandor expressed his deepest longing—to return home to the Republic of Congo, to feel the earth of his homeland beneath his feet, embrace his children and grandchildren, and ultimately, to be in his homeland when called Home to Glory.
As his health declined, O.Y.A Strategies produced A Bon Voyage Fete Fundraiser to gather community, say farewell, and raise necessary funds. Through strategic partnerships* and collective efforts, a Silent Auction of his private collection of Mikwe paintings was held, raising funds to support his return. It was a powerful testament to the love, respect, and commitment of the Oakland African Dance community.
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*My gratitude to Kongo SQ West Kinship Society, Esosi, Blue Magnolia, Fua Dia Congo, Malonga Village Community and Sandor’s long-time student and devotee, Sarah Proctor, RN along with Diabankouezi Family.
left to right: Janeen Johnson & Tata Sandor / Aug 2025: Congo Brazza
A Supreme Homecoming
Tata Sandor’s journey home aligned with the Inaugural Embrace Kongo Cultural Immersion, a project of Fua Dia Kongo. And, in July 2024, Tata Sandor arrived in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, where he was received with open arms. His Supreme Journey Homeward was complete.
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On February 26, 2025, seven months later, the venerated Tata Pierre Sandor Diabankouezi transitioned, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a majestic elder and cultural luminary.
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We extend our deepest gratitude to all who supported his transition from Petaluma, California to Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, ensuring his final journey was met with dignity, love, and community care.
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Tata Sandor’s legacy shines brightly in each of us and his spirit remains alive—in the rhythms of the drum, the colors of his paintings, and the hearts of all who were touched by his wisdom, movement, and artistry.
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Matondo Tata. Your spirit dances on. 💛
#HonoringTataSandor #KongoLegacy #Matondo
[photo courtesy of O.Y.A. Strategies]
