Regent Park Focus and the 2011 Drug Awareness program has started. This year we collaborated with Sprucecourt Public School and it has allowed students to not only develop knowledge and awareness about drugs but also expand on their creativity. The aim of the program is to inspire local schools such as Sprucecourt to engage students in learning more about drugs using participatory arts based approach. The program aims to promote awareness of the negative harms associated with drug abuse to students living and attending school in the Regent Park community. Similar to previous, we started the program with a school assembly featuring a panel presentation of speakers who talked about their experiences dealing with drugs.
There were motivational panel speakers including Caroline Swinson from MAAD, (Mothers Against Drunk Driving). Carolyn, her husband Richard and daughter Emma became involved in MADD after the death of Rob, the eldest of their three children. Rob was killed on February 12th, 1993 almost 12 years to the day Carolyn’s father had been killed, also in an alcohol-related crash. Carolyn continues to make a huge difference in the lives of many people from her tragic situation. It was interesting to see the effects of alcohol such as vision impairment when Carolyn brought special goggles. Two teachers wore the glasses and could not walk in a straight line. The goggles are a great example of the effects of alcohol.
The students were really amped when they were able to watch an eclectic performance by the first place winners of the City of Toronto Stomp completion, Bucc N Flvr. The dance group did not only perform but also gave an inspirational message about how important it is to do things you are passionate about such as dancing and stay away from drugs. Thanks to Bucc N Flvr for giving away their official t shirt to a lucky student.
The students were extremely star struck when they received a visit from two cast members Sam Earle and Jahmil French from Degrassi. I am a HUGE fan of Degrassi, a hit Canadian show, that has shown many episodes related to the affects of teen peer pressure, drug and alcohol use. Sam and Jahmil who are currently on the 12th season of Degrassi spoke about the importance to keep busy doing things you love doing because that way, you won’t have time to get into things can hurt you such as drugs. They share a passion for acting and have no interest in doing drugs. Jahmil is also in a dance group troop called, 'Moon Runners.' He not only showed us some of his moves but also helped a young student to have the courage to get up and show his dancing abilities in front of everyone! The boys continue to inspire to be good role models in the media and television for youth.
The students were inspired and moved by the experiences and stories of the speakers. This year, the students were able to participate in a deep discussion and ask more questions because the speakers went to visit the students in their classes after the assembly. The students were also filmed as they work on their Drug Awareness art projects. The students also worked on a wide array of student led fun and creative projects such as; skit making, poster making, dance, raps, song writing, poetry, creative writing, radio public service announcements, and video production. This competition also incorporated the theme of drugs and healthy living. After the projects were completed, students performed and displayed their projects at the Drug Awareness Community Celebration assembly, where family members, dignitaries and members of the community came out to support the students work and hear what they have to say about drugs.
A special thanks goes out to Diego Gomes who is the winner of YTV’s The Next Star. Diego beat out thousands of Canadian youth who auditioned in a nationwide search for Canada’s best teen singing star sensation. Diego not only performed his hit single ‘My Best Friend’s Girl’, he encouraged students to not use drugs and to utilize their talents to showcase their artistic abilities. Diego stands an exceptional role model as he uses his musical gifts to send positive messages and encourages youth to do the same. I also interviewed Diego for RPTV, so look out for that soon. Regent Park TV also filmed the process of the students work including research, practices, rehearsal and the assemblies.
To watch Degrassi boys Jahmil and Sam at the Drug Awareness Assembly and to watch Diego’s performance and my interview with him click on the link! Fast forward to 14:02 to watch Sam and Jahmil and fast forward to 12:32 to watch Diego from YTV’s the Next Star!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0xwT-XJmo0&list=UU1VRAGe6jDQqJb5XM2EfK9Q&index=3&feature=plcp
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