Exploring the Intersection of Sports and Art | Something to Say (06-25-2024)
In this episode of the “Something to Say” podcast, host, Mazi Mutafa, brought together leaders and changemakers to discuss the importance of community engagement, youth development, and the transformative power of arts and sports programs in Washington, D.C. This discussion featured various community based organizations, as well as local artists and art advocates.
In this episode, Andrew Blickle, Institutional Marketing Manager of Life Pieces to Masterpieces, highlighted the organization's focus on mentorship and leadership for young men. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to mentorship and the power of the arts as a tool for self-expression. Blickle said,
“Our young men have the opportunity to both be a mentor while they receive mentorship themselves, to have leadership opportunities while they're surrounded by leaders in their community.”
Program Coordinator Bria Gibbs introduced their innovative basketball initiative, blending sports and self-expression to reach youth who may not connect through traditional arts programs. She emphasized the program's role in fostering a positive and enriching learning environment while promoting a commitment to youth development. Gibbs reflected,
“if you're not the super artistic kid, you can express yourselves and put your art on in an art form on the floor.”
Alumni mentor Termane Jay Jr. shared how Life Pieces transformed his life, helping him overcome shyness and step into leadership. Termane’s experience underscores the importance that arts programing plays in many young peoples lives.
Dior Ashley Brown, a driving force behind the DC Music Summit, discussed her mission to empower local artists. By offering resources and education, her organization aims to help artists navigate the business side of their craft, fostering a thriving arts scene in D.C. She emphasized the importance of empowering artists to understand their business and industry. Similarly, Ashley Mitchell of Washington Parks and People emphasized creating inclusive spaces where community members can access opportunities for growth and creative expression. She stated,
"We are an open door facility. So whatever ideas you have, we will support them if they make sense. If not, we will kind of try to make them make sense. We support entrepreneurs, we support community leaders."
Young poets like Kashvi Ramani, the 2023 Virginia State Youth Poet Laureate, Tara Prakash, the 2024 Montgomery County Youth Poet Laureate, and Amasa Maleski, the 2021 Arlington County Youth Poet Laureate, shared their journey through poetry, as well as some of the inspirations behind their work.
These conversations reaffirmed the vital role of community-based organizations in nurturing young talent, fostering safe spaces, and providing opportunities that inspire growth. Through mentorship, education, and creative expression, these programs and individuals are transforming the lives of D.C.'s youth and strengthening the fabric of the community.
Something to Say is recorded live on Washington, DC’s Radio Station WPFW 89.3 and is produced by Words Beats & Life Inc.
