Parfait Bassalé
Artist + Reconciler + Belonging Strategist
"My life journey as an immigrant has helped me understand what it feels like to be an outsider: the man standing at the door and on the margin of spaces. I have learned that for a place to become home, people need more than an invitation. Instead, people need to heal from their trauma, see themselves represented, cared for and involved in co-creating a shared experience."
The Mission
Help individuals and organizations create a culture of belonging
With this clear but simple mission, Parfait Bassalé is known for making a memorable impact. His unique approach that combines storytelling, interpersonal neuroscience, music and reflexive inquiry helps individuals and organizations find solutions for greater equity and belonging for everyone.
The Challenges We Solve
Blind spots that get in the way of belonging;
Resistance to Diversity and Equity initiatives;
Uncertainty about what steps to take next with a diversity initiative;
Confusion and frustration related to DEI work.
The Transformation We Ignite
Through multisensory experiences that involve interpersonal neuroscience, storytelling and reflexive inquiry, you can expect:
Transformative awareness,
More people joining the conversation and,
Proven strategies and tools to transform your organization
Our Grounding Values
We believe that we must always meet people where they are and as they are.
We believe that relationships are as important as issues.
We believe that relationships are the vehicle through which healing and transformation occur.
We believe that we must involve those most impacted when finding solutions.
Parfait provides a unique perspective and innovative approach to discussions that further diversity, equity, and belonging. His style of engagement works with everyone from the CEO to the newly hired line-staff.
Doug Mah, Former Mayor of Olympia
In the Press
Articles and Profiles
Student debt relief is good. But there is still more we need to do!
September 18, 2022
"Nineteen states across the country currently offer free community college. It is a proven policy with proven results. Free community college will not only give more students across the state access to a higher education, it will help the state economically. Washington should become the 20th state to enact the policy."
Olympia city council appoints 11 to new social justice and equity commission
April 20, 2022
Olympia City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved the appointment of 11 inaugural members of the Social Justice and Equity Commission.
Portland’s Parfait Bassalé uses the arts to teach empathy
May 17, 2017
The musician from West Africa has a unique style of music and storytelling aimed at inspiring a better understanding of others
Parfait Bassalé & Migrations
January 24, 2015
Dmae profiles guitarist and singer Parfait Bassalé who is about to debut his new EP of original songs. Originally from West Africa, Bassale weaves joyous guitar melodies with his intricate vocals. He often sings about his experiences and introspections of immigrant dreams and daily life