A Safe Home
for Thanda Choir
Building a sanctuary for creativity and empowerment — where youth artists can thrive, dream bigger, and inspire future generations.
The Thanda Arts Organisation:
A Beacon of Hope
An inspiring youth-driven initiative in Khayelitsha, South Africa. Despite the daily struggles of township life — crime, unemployment, and generational trauma — they embody and radiate hope, resilience, and joy.
They have seen firsthand how music nurtures talent, builds confidence, and fosters a sense of belonging. Yet, their greatest challenge remains: the lack of a safe, permanent space to practice, learn, and grow.
When I met these incredible young artists, their music, dance, vibrant energy, and unwavering spirit moved me deeply. It was a life-changing experience, and I knew I had to take action.
Safe Rehearsal Space
A dedicated, secure environment for daily practice, vocal training, and creative growth.
Community Cultural Hub
A gathering place that serves the entire Khayelitsha community — celebrating heritage and artistic expression.
Music Education & Mentorship
Programs that nurture the next generation of artists, giving children pathways out of poverty through art.
This will be a sanctuary for creativity and empowerment — a place where these artists can thrive, dream bigger, and inspire future generations.
Our Generous Partners & Supporters
dōTERRA Healing Hands Foundation®
My application as a doTERRA Wellness Advocate was granted — and we are deeply honored to have received a generous $10,000 matching fund from the dōTERRA Healing Hands Foundation®. Every dollar donated was matched up to $10,000, doubling the impact of your generosity.
Dedicated to bringing healing and hope to the world, their belief in the transformative power of the arts means everything to this mission. With dōTERRA Healing Hands Foundation®'s intentional platform, it made it easy to support an overseas organization like Thanda — bridging hearts and communities across the world.
Dave Matthews Band's Bama Works Fund
Through a DMB Photography + Memorabilia Auction benefitting Thanda Choir, we raised an incredible $35,870. The Bama Works Fund's longstanding commitment to uplifting communities has been an extraordinary source of support and inspiration throughout this journey.
A heartfelt thank you to my husband, Jeff Coffin — saxophonist of Dave Matthews Band — for believing in me, supporting this cause, and helping collect the items for this auction. Without you, none of this would have been possible.
Hello, I'm Ryoko
Founder of the Align Your Spine, Align Your Life Program and a doTERRA Wellness Advocate and Educator.
I am beyond thrilled to be taking on one of the most joyful and meaningful missions of my life: building a safe home for Thanda Choir.
On March 9, 2025, I not only completed, but led as the #1 top-ranked fundraiser out of 244 charity riders for the 109 km Cape Town Cycle Tour in South Africa — 68 miles with a total elevation gain of around 4,000 feet.
Our Thanda United Team is a powerful collaboration between:
- Thanda Choir members
- DMB Fit Crew — a fitness-focused philanthropy group
This mission has pushed me beyond my comfort zone — physically and emotionally. I had never attempted anything like this, but my heart said "YES" — and that YES has fueled every step of this journey.
Thank you for being part of this life-changing mission. Let's keep pedaling with purpose and creating a brighter future — one note, one step, one ride at a time.
With love & heartfelt gratitude, Ryoko
Ready to Align with Your Bigger Purpose?
I offer Integrated Holistic Therapy and Transformational Coaching to help you release old patterns, align with your true self, and create the joyful, vibrant life you deserve.
Book a 1:1 SessionHow It All Began
In December 2023, Thanda Choir courageously opened for Dave Matthews Band in Cape Town.
The next day, we were invited to visit Khayelitsha — one of South Africa's largest townships — where I had the privilege of meeting the vibrant and talented young artists and experiencing their beautiful community firsthand.
We also learned that their choir's name, Thanda, means "love."
"A safe space to gather, rehearse, and nurture their talents."
When I asked what they needed most, their response was simple yet urgent. Their words stayed with me, and I knew I had to take action.
I reached out to the DMB Fit Crew board members, and together, we launched this mission to create lasting impact. I am profoundly grateful for their enthusiastic "yes," the constant inspiration of the DMB Fit community, and the strong backing of Dave Matthews Band's Bama Works Fund.
