Ellen Ruiters: Executive Director
Ellen Ruiters founded Africa Jam in 2001 after recognizing a need for safe, youth-empowering after school and faith development activities. Ruiters has been involved in youth development and ministry for more than 20 years. She served as an inner-city educator for Right Step Academy and has held leadership positions with Young Life, Tree House and the Youth Forum Summer Festival and received the 2007 alumni service award from Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, Minn., USA.