Who is Parfait Bassalé?
Parfait Bassalé is a cultural strategist, singer-songwriter, and author who helps people and organizations reimagine the Other through the power of friendship, story, and song. Born in West Africa, shaped by a life between nations, and fueled by faith, Parfait's work weaves together leadership development, belonging frameworks, conflict transformation, and the healing power of music.
Whether he is consulting with public agencies, writing about systemic befriending, or performing a song that carries the ache of injustice and the hope of repair — it all flows from the same calling: to be a bridge. Mr. Bassalé holds a Masters in Conflict Resolution from Portland State University and has supported many state agencies, boards, non-profit and private sector organizations with their diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
During his five years as Executive Diversity Officer at South Puget Sound Community College—a 2023 ASPEN Top 10 finalist—Parfait led equity initiatives that fostered belonging and narrowed achievement gaps for historically excluded students. He also co-chairs Olympia’s Social Justice and Equity Commission and serves on the boards of United Way of Thurston County and Olympia Federal Savings.
"I believe systems change when hearts change. And hearts change when someone dares to be a friend."
Creating real belonging requires us to acknowledge past wounds and foster connections grounded in courage, curiosity, and compassion. My mission is to inspire people to befriend ‘the other’ and provide the tools to make those connections genuine and lasting.
Parfait Bassalé
Also known as Le Verbe
A life long journey building relational bridges through music
Parfait Bassalé is an American singer songwriter and peacemaker originally from Benin Republic (West Africa) whose music is known to take listeners on an emotional journey. His lyrical vulnerability- dressed with haunting melodies and carried by soulful and velvet vocals- trigger introspection, self discovery and a "feel good vibe." Reflective of his immigrant story, Parfait’s music echoes various musical traditions. He is a crossover artist between pop, reggae, neo-soul, French conscious hip hop, and gospel. You are in for a treat!
Parfait usually performs solo acts but occasionally teams up with various guest instrumentalists. Some notable collaborations include with cellist arranger James Dehart, conductor Cameron May, Jazz arranger Mark Thome, jazz artist Dominic Castillo, and the South Puget Sound Community College orchestra.
