Collective Arts &
Learning Network
Our Mission
CAALN cultivates creative expression and education through cross-cultural collaboration.
Our Vision
CAALN envisions a vibrant and creative world where people from diverse social, geographic, and cultural locations generously share and humbly learn from each other’s unique perspectives, knowledges, and experiences for the mutual benefit of all people and the planet.
TAPTA
Therapeutic Arts Paraprofessional
Training in Africa
Upcoming Trip: March 11-25, 2026
(March 11-27 with optional safari)
Applications accepted through January 15, 2026
Since 2008, the leadership teams of CAALN, in collaboration with participants from around the world and East Africa, have facilitated creative arts therapies and counseling cross-cultural training programs in Kenya and Tanzania.
We are currently looking for creative arts therapists, including students and related professionals, to join us in Tanzania for workshops, skill shares, reflections, community-building, and more.
Kenya Literary Retreat
Upcoming Trip: Sept. 14–25, 2026
(Sept. 14–27 with optional safari)
Applications are open through February 15, 2026
CAALN’s mission of cultivating creative expression and education through cross-cultural collaboration extends to the written word. Our literary retreats bring participants and East African writers together in order to share perspectives in writing and culture. Together we explore various genres, including poetry, prose, essay, fiction, and spoken word. The retreats include connecting underserved young East African writers with the group and the larger literary community, through literary and writing events such as the Macondo Literary Festival, youth writing workshops, and open mic performances.
Participants will have ample time for uninterrupted writing and inspiration. We will spend several days at Kitengela Glass near Nairobi National Park, and in Watamu on the Indian Ocean.
Please note: Trip fee does not include transportation to and from Kenya.