Voices from TAP Jamaica

I laugh, I love, I try, I hurt, I need, I fear, I cry and I know you do the same so we are really not that different, me & you.

-     Colin Rave

This year, 18 Canadian/American participants and 45 youth participated in the project. TAP’s mission is “to create integrated arts projects which foster reciprocal exchange in order to impact and strengthen communities.” All participants, regardless of age, origin or nationality, are impacted in some way through the project. Our theme for this year’s program was The Art of Communication. This theme was reflected in the arts and leadership workshops each day. What each person took away from the program was unique to their individual perspective.

Music Workshop participants ready for the Showcase

Read on to find out how the experience impacted different participants…

I’ve learned so much about myself as a teacher, as a Canadian, as a student and as a human being from this experience, and I know I will take this learning with me throughout my life time.

- Lescia, Theatre Facilitator, 22

Its an absolute privilege and joy to be here in Jamaica to experience all of this with TAP. An opportunity and experience like this isn’t one you come by everyday. And for a lot of people if never does. So all of this for me is much more than just amazing. Its life changing.

Saying goodbye to the kids today was a huge challenge. But it was a challenge that exceeds the simple term worthwhile. Looking around to see so many of these people crying, was heart breaking. At the same time though, thats when I was reassured that what we went there to do, had been done. It had been done very well. Each of these kids has impacted my life in such a huge and positive way, its astounding. They way these youth made me feel, they way they smile, and touch your heart is something nobody can take away from you. Nobody can take away that change in your life.

All these people are my change. This was my beginning to be the change I have always wanted to be. I’ve started, and take it ”step by step.”

- Sara, Canadian FIT (Facilitator in Training) Team Member, 16

In terms of the effect of the workshops and the aims of the project, I think its overall success can be seen with the example of Kemar. At the beginning of the project, Kemar had absolutely no confidence. Through the writing workshop, he was able go from that person to someone who would go on stage in front of 60 people and belt out an amazing poem about his mother with force and conviction. He undoubtedly left Port Antonio with a new sense of self-assurance and pride that he will take with him to his community and use to benefit his future. Being witness to this profound of an impact allowed me to see how important TAP is, and why I hope to continue the work in 2012.

- Mike, Writing/Music Facilitator, 25

FIT Team members having fun with the costume box!

To effectively communicate we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world & use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others.

-     Anthony Robbins

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