Hollyhock Presenters

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Our presenters are curated for their quality, depth, integrity, and alignment with our educational purpose. Since 1982, a distinguished faculty of authors, educators, activists, artists, performers, and practitioners have shared their work at our Cortes Island campus and in Vancouver.

People smiling at Activate 2023 Hollyhock Leadership Institute

Gordy Onayemi Ryan

Gordy Ryan played with Babtunde Olatunji for 30 years and built the Olatunji Hall in 1999; members of the Drums of Passion consider it as being our ‘Spirit Well’ where we honor Baba and the traditions passed to us by our elders in the Culture. Gordy has played on movie scores, over 100 albums, and now lives on Vashon Island where he teaches Afro Cuban music and plays in multiple bands including Roger Fisher’s (lead guitar and songwriter for the band Heart). He loves playing for the dance with his wife Zoe and accompanied Gabrielle Rothe during her career in the 5 Rhythms for over 30 years. His goal is to bring the Spirit to the musical moment.