ABOUT
VENEZUELA MARKA

The Venezuela Marka Foundation was conceived from a pressing need to celebrate and uphold the vibrant Venezuelan culture amidst an increasingly diverse world. Our founder and now President, Maria Kellermann, identified a growing disconnect within the Venezuelan community in Jacksonville, Florida. She witnessed communities becoming fragmented and their rich, traditional customs and values beginning to fade.

In the face of this, Maria envisioned a foundation that could not only reconnect the Venezuelan community but also allow them to engage with and embrace their cultural heritage. This led to the introduction of Katherine Durand, a passionate advocate for the arts, who joined the foundation as our Artistic Director.

Katherine's role was crucial in the evolution of the foundation. She brought to life Maria's vision of a vibrant community space by introducing dance programs that showcased the heart and soul of Venezuelan traditions. These programs became a vehicle for cultural expression and unity, breathing new life into fading traditions and serving as a vivid reminder of our shared cultural roots.

Thus, the Venezuela Marka Foundation was born. Inspired by a profound love for Venezuelan culture and fueled by the collective passion of Maria and Katherine, the foundation's purpose was clear: to celebrate Venezuelan identity, honor its past, and carry its unique and enduring legacy forward into the future.

​

​

​

 

 

To create a stimulating community space that fosters a sense of belonging and cultural identity. We encourage active support and contribution to our objectives, aiming to help individuals embrace their roots and heritage through engaging programs and initiatives 

​

To be the leading nonprofit organization, serving as the beacon of cultural traditions, inspiring individuals of all ages to embrace their heritage, express themselves through dance, and foster a strong sense of community and belonging in Jacksonville, Florida