Reflection Park's "Caring for Caregivers" series is dedicated to honoring and supporting the incredible individuals who provide compassionate care to those who are nearing the end of life. If you are a death doula, hospice care worker, chaplain, family caregiver, or anyone else committed to accompanying and caring for others during their last days, this program is for you.
We’ll join together in a communal walk through the woods on Reflection Park's natural surface hiking trail. At the memorial picnic bench where two streams converge, musician Jabari Exum will offer rhythms from the djembe, often called the "peace drum." The djembe's name comes from the Bamana phrase "Anke djé, anke bé," which means "everyone gather together in peace." Traditionally used in West Africa, the djembe’s resonance is said to ignite our internal systems and bring them into balance.
Together, we’ll embrace the beauty of nature in community with fellow caregivers who understand the demands of our roles.
Born and raised in Washington, DC, Jabari Exum is a multi-talented professional—skilled percussionist, music writer and performer, actor, and choreographer. He has been acting, drumming, and rapping since he was two years old. He has been mentored by numerous luminaries including Debbie Allen and Chadwick Boseman. More recently, he choreographed dance and drumming for Black Panther, the movie.
Having played the djembe for decades, Jabari has developed a deep connection with this traditional African drum. A formative experience—playing for a family member near water and witnessing the sense of peace it brought—inspired him to use the djembe not only for its rhythmic versatility but also for its healing potential. Jabari notes that when the djembe’s rhythm aligns with our heartbeat, it can reset our internal rhythms, helping to restore peace within.
To learn more about Jabari's fascinating life and work, please follow this link.
An image of Reflection Park’s natural surface hiking trail, summer 2025