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
This workshop series invites storytellers to explore poetry and creative writing as a path toward voice, healing, and liberation. Led by Toronto-based Filipino-Canadian poet, filmmaker, and arts educator Patrick de Belen, whose work often centers mental health, grief, cultural identity and collective resistance, participants will craft original poems rooted in lived experience and community-focused storytelling. Through writing exercises, performance coaching, and mentorship, the series also supports participants in developing confidence and sustainable artistic practices.
Together, the group builds a space where unheard stories are honoured and connection becomes possible. The series culminates in a final showcase, with participants performing alongside the Toronto Youth Poetry Slam community.
The final day of the program, June 10, will also be part of Toronto Youth Poetry Slam’s monthly Slam. Participants will have the opportunity to perform.
DURATION
April 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27, June 3, June 10 (Poetry Slam)
6:30 - 9 pm
LOCATION
JAYU Studio at 401 Richmond Street West
Studio 380, Toronto ON, M5V 3A8
NEED TO KNOW
Food and TTC tickets will be provided
Registration closes on April 13
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, iAM Program Manager at desiree@jayu.ca
MEET YOUR MENTOr
Patrick de Belen is a Toronto-based Filipino-Canadian poet, filmmaker, and arts educator whose work explores mental health, grief, and collective healing. An internationally recognized spoken-word artist, he has been named both Canadian Poet of Honour and Youth Poet of Honour, among other storytelling accolades. His work has been featured by the Toronto Raptors, the NFL, TVO, TEDx, CBC and more.
PDB’s multidisciplinary practice blends lyricism with dreams of liberation and the exploration of narratives often unheard - while inviting audiences into honest, transformative conversations about belonging, loss, and love. Off the stage and screen, he can be found building storytelling platforms in spaces across the world.