WHO ARE WE?
JAYU is a Toronto-based charity dedicated to sharing human rights stories through the arts. The iAM Program program offers equity-deserving youth ages 12-29 free arts mentorship.
iAM programs are free and designed for young artists between the ages of 12 – 29 living in Ontario with no previous experience required. Equity-deserving is inclusive of Black and racialized folks, people with disabilities, Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit and Métis), 2-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer (2SLGBTQ+), newcomers to Canada and people experiencing homelessness or precarious housing.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Bring your poems to be workshopped and prepped for performance! With Toronto's Youth Poet Laureate Shahaddah Jack, you'll learn the fundamentals of performing spoken word poetry on a mic in a way that is compelling and true to your voice.
Each participant will work on their existing poetry 1:1 with Shahaddah to refine their performance. Come work on your volume, pauses, rhythm, banter and overall stage presence with us while keeping your authentic voice.
Registration closes on September 7
DURATION
September 14, 21 & 28
6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
LOCATION
JAYU Studio at 401 Richmond Street West
Studio 380, Toronto ON, M5V 3A8
NEED TO KNOW
Food, TTC tickets, and materials will be provided at the in-person sessions.
Please Note: Registration does not guarantee placement in this program. Confirmation emails will be sent prior to the program start.
If you have any inquiries, please contact Des, core iAM Program Manager at desiree@jayu.ca
MEET YOUR MENTOr
Shahaddah Jack is a bilingual spoken word poet, recording artist, human rights activist, and Toronto's first Youth Poet Laureate. She has performed on over 100 stages, including TIFF, Hot Docs Cinema, Meridian Arts Centre, and History, and her work has been featured at major federal announcements, including Canada's 2024 Anti-Racism Strategy, as well as internationally by the Canadian Consulate in Los Angeles.
Beyond the stage, Shahaddah advocates for youth through policy work, facilitates social justice workshops, and uses poetry as a tool for healing, empowerment, and community change. Her work bridges art, advocacy, and storytelling to inspire meaningful dialogue and action.