What PALAVA means to me - reflections from a young artist
Reflections on the youth music project from a young artist
PALAVA is a collaborative youth music project delivered over the last year, using lyric writing, music production and radio to support young people living in social housing in Lambeth. It is managed by Hyde Foundation (Hyde Housing Association's social investment team) and delivered in partnership with Hip Hop Educator Silas Zephania, Young People Matter, Flames Radio and radio producer Bill Shaw.
The project has had a powerful impact on participants' wellbeing, aspirations and musicianship. More than anything, it's demonstrated how music is theraputic; it has the ability to unlock self-expression and confidence, and create a sense of community and citizenship.
We asked one young artist, Anjola, to describe what Palava has meant to her. Anjola joined Palava as a young artist last summer and quickly became an inspirational role model and mentor to some of Palava's younger members. She'd always had interest in singing and started experimenting with writing her own lyrics through the project. Through Palava music leaders saw her confidence and self-expression as a songwriter and performer grow, and her intelligent and soulful lyrics produce some beautiful pieces of music.
Anjola:
"If I could describe PALAVA in three words it would be; exciting, empowering and supportive. I can't even begin to describe how much the project has changed my life. One of the many inspiring words Silas shared was 'don't despise humble beginnings'. I've always been so afraid to start writing my own music because I was discouraged by those who are essentially so far ahead and so much more successful. My experience has taught me to slow down and celebrate what you are working towards, no matter when or where you begin.
The most fulfilling part of this entire experience was working with all of the other young artists. A lot of times people experience group think and conform to the same ideas because we surround ourselves with minds like our own. But working with young, diverse and artistic people I've learnt so much about their opinions on controversial issues, their understanding of love, relationships, heartbreak and family and their inspirations, dreams and goals. It has been a privilege having an ear at the table and an honour to have a voice and share my world through music.
The comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing grows there. Palava has taught me to go beyond the boundaries we have built to secure ourselves. My advice to any young people would be to challenge your artistic abilities and before you know it, unimaginable ideas will appear."