The volunteer of Fotoessa, Ioulitta Soureli, participated in two transnational, online seminars on spoken word, for young volunteers, organized by the Irish youth organization Cloyne Diocesan Youth Services (CDYS) with trainer the artist-activist Kelvin Akpaloo.

During these two masterclasses, young participants explored the power of words through spoken word poetry, the meaning of spoken word and how it differs to traditional poetry style. They also learned some steps they can take when writing a spoken word piece, how to create a character, emotions and connection, and how to perform spoken word. Participants focused, in particular, on how to express themselves through spoken word regarding Human Rights and SDGs in order to make a statement, sensitize the public, question politics, address social challenges and create solidarity.

Spoken Word is a most powerful tool for free self-expression and for raising awareness, a vibrant way to communicate, to tell stories, to challenge and inspire. Spoken word poetry is also one of the most dynamic ways of supporting young people to have a voice, to tackle issues they wish to talk about, either personally or socially. According to Kelvin: “Spoken word is an experience – where with a small use of powerful words, you might change someone’s perspective or someone’s action and how they might deal with something.”

Kelvin Akpaloo, is a spoken word artist, a dance and movement facilitator and a passionate activist promoting human rights, inclusion, integration of minorities and community and youth development. Kelvin Akpaloo, works at both a national and international level, using the creative arts, and he is a member of the NYCI-Young Voices programme, Making Links and a No Hate Speech Movement Ambassador.

Cloyne Diocesan Youth Services (CDYS) works to empower young people, families and communities through quality Youth services in a safe and supporting community.