ASE (ah - SHAY), is a term from the Yoruba people of Nigeria, West Africa. ASE affirms, as we express our spiritual devotion, that there is power in our words; not just the words we speak, but the words and feelings we express in our stories.
The Chicago Association of Black Storytellers is to function as the Chicago affiliate of the National Association of Black Storytellers (NABS), and to promote the art-form of storytelling. Through efforts to educate, entertain, and inspire, members will assist in keeping alive the African-rooted cultures of the world through the power of the word. Members of ASE are committed to guiding and developing youth in the ageless art of storytelling as well as cultivating and promoting community partnerships.
What’s Your Story? – Storytelling Workshop with Teju the Storyteller. Discover the power of your own voice in this hands-on storytelling workshop led by Teju the Storyteller (Tejumola Ologboni), renowned folklorist and oral historian. Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 10 AM – 1 PM Christ the Mediator Church, 3100 S. Calumet Ave, Chicago, IL $20 | Pre-registration required (Contact: Baba Tony – imaginestories4all@gmail.com)
More infoIt’s All About Culture: Annual Storytelling Fundraiser Join ASE: The Chicago Association of Black Storytellers for an afternoon of powerful performances celebrating the art of storytelling. Featuring Teju the Storyteller as special guest artist, along with Baba Tony Brown, Kucha Brownlee, Loretta “Firekeeper” Hawkins, Dhamana Shauri, Maxine Washington, dancers Sunyatta & Saidia, and Mistress of Ceremony Omiyale DuPart.
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Are you looking for a storyteller to share stories from the African American experience? You’ve come to the right place! ASE members tell at schools, festivals, museums, libraries, colleges, and at special events all over Chicagoland. Many are also available for programs throughout the United States. Most of our storytellers tell stories outside of an ASE sponsored event. For more information contact the organization at info@aseblackstorytellers.org
Whether you are a person who enjoys just listening to stories, wants to share telling your own stories, or wants to learn how to be a better storyteller, ASE is the organization for you. Each month on the second Sunday, we begin our meeting with storytelling presentations from members and with the storyteller's consent, we offer constructive feedback. Over thirty ASE storytellers are eagerly awaiting to be helpful as your storytelling partners.
Have more questions? Please communicate with us via our contact form to request specific information about events and the ASE organization.
