EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Ridvan Idara

Founder & Executive Director

Ridvan Idara

Guided by the belief in the oneness of humanity, Ridvan Idara is committed to promoting in young people the conviction that they can be the voice of positive change in the world. To this end, for over two decades, she has committed her time, energy, and resources to develop creative and educational programs for children with an emphasis on developing their moral capabilities alongside their intellectual and artistic talent.

In 2006, inspired by the Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) a non-profit organization based in NYC dedicated to “building character on stage,” She founded a Peekskill chapter of CTC. In 2013, New Era Creative Space came into being, in response to the growing need for educational programs that were both creative and provided children the opportunity to develop leadership skills. Ridvan’s vision for NECS to become a hub for creative initiatives, community engagement and to inspire the next generation of mindful and innovative thinkers.

Ridvan Idara holds a Master’s degree in occupational therapy and is a certified parenting educator. Originally from Nigeria, she currently resides in Peekskill with her husband and two children. She enjoys reading, dancing, playing tennis, and hiking.