We are coming up to the end of the third school term, so it’s time to get our school holiday program hats on. This year, we’ve designed a program specifically for our Pasefika Youth, called Performing Arts for Pasefika Youth (PAPY). We’ve been facilitating arts programs for youth since the beginning of PICAA in 2016 and we lovingly nickname our students ‘PICAA kids’. I think it’s safe to say that we’ve had over 300 PICAA kids who have come through our creative arts programs in the last 4 years. We have met some amazing kids who have so much creative energy and a zest for giving things a go, so it’s always encouraging to know that our community is filled with creative children.

So what do we do with all this creative talent bubbling up within our youth community? Simple – we contribute to their development. We share our creative skills by facilitating workshops, programs, events and welcoming them into our creative space. We also set the standard and tone for the enjoyment of the arts by showcasing our work in a way that is genuine and relevant to our lives here in Australia. We are their role models, their teachers, their cheerleaders, and their family. We want to see them go as far as they can with their passion for the arts, and we also want to see them use their creative minds for their own well-being and peace of mind.

PICAA encourages those who have creative arts knowledge and skills, to pass on their gifts to the next generation. We’re always designing events and programs that focus on drawing out (sometimes hidden) talent. While I write this blog, I’m wondering – are you willing to join us and help to develop a creative future for our children? Do you have the time to help empower youth? If so – email us on pasefika@picaa.com.au and let’s talanoa! Help us to create a community of healthy and happy kids who find joy in self-development and expression through the arts.

Manuia

Rita (PICAA’s Head Cheerleader)