On Thursday, December 10th, Magdalena Gómez and Francheska Morales facilitated a workshop for five Mount Holyoke students including myself. The workshop included a brainstorm of strategies for sustaining Ignite the Mic and hosting techniques. We all agreed upon the importance of a safe space for youth to come together, share their creative work, and be supportive for one another as a community. Since Ignite is the only open mic of its kind in the Pioneer Valley, run by and for youth, it is imperative to sustain and nourish its existence. As a group we engaged in theatre-inspired activities, led by Magdalena, where we had to rely on ourselves and each other to participate. The activities put into perspective the collective responsibility ascribed to organizing such an amazing and uplifting event. By the end of the session, everyone committed to the mission of keeping Ignite going, in whatever capacity they could. I left full with energy and hope, knowing that this year will be a year of growth and power not only for Ignite, but for the greater Springfield community.
-Natalie Riquelmy
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