“I’ve always had this strong, gravitational pull towards music.”  

In this series, we’re highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You’ll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship.

Quinay

Q’s musical journey began as a means to navigate their emotions. They used music as an outlet to express heartbreak and life experiences. Despite growing up in a family surrounded by music, Q’s exploration of the craft was deeply personal, driven by an innate gravitational pull toward the art form.

Q’s sister tragically lost her life to gun violence in 2022. To help process their emotions, Q wrote a song reflecting on gu

n violence that won an award.

The Evolution of Their Dream

As a kid, Q dreamed of becoming an artist like Willow Smith—someone who could inspire young people. However, as their musical journey evolved, so did their goals.

Today, Q’s biggest dream is to share themselves with the world.

“I want to share my art and my vulnerability with the world because I feel like that’s something that’s lost nowadays.”

Q feels vulnerability is an important part of the human experience and that through music, people can learn about themselves and the world.

Looking for Change

While Q was not actively involved in community and social change before the program, they were looking for an opportunity to begin. VERSIONS offered them the perfect chance to get started and use their passion for music to make social change.

When Q got into the program, they were thrilled. They were only 16 at the time, the youngest of the Fellowship. “I was in disbelief. I was so excited to see what was in store.”

Getting Vulnerable

For Q, the most impactful part of VERSIONS was when co-founders Mel and D’Ari visited their hometown to film a mini-documentary about Q and record their original song over a celebrity-produced beat.

Not only was it a great opportunity to connect in person after nearly a year of programming, but Q also took it as a chance to visit the site of their sister’s passing for the first time. Q says Mel and D’Ari helped them through the site visit.

“I was in a vulnerable place and had been avoiding the site. I felt comfortable with Mel and D’Ari. They helped me.”

On the Frontlines

As part of VERSIONS, each Fellow is guided in designing and implementing a social impact project in their communities. Q’s social impact project was in honour of their sister’s passing. Q created a social media account to educate the community on the devastating impacts of gun violence.

Before VERSIONS, Q believed, “I’m only one person. There’s no way anything I do could really make a difference.” Throughout the Fellowship, they’ve realized they have the power to make change. They’ve also learned that even impacting one person is meaningful.

Thanks to their experience with VERSIONS, Q now knows they no longer want to be on the sidelines of change. They want to be on the front line leading the charge.

Elevated Creativity

Q reflects on how VERSIONS has enhanced their process as a creative. When drafting songs or beginning a new project, they often grapple with self-doubt and struggle to convey their message effectively. VERSIONS has helped them push through doubts and overcome creative blockages.

“Just being in a space with so many creative people helped me. And watching other people create inspired me.”

Through the support of the other Fellows and the VERSIONS team, both Q and their music have grown.

A Note to Future Applicants and Fellows

For future applicants and Fellows, Q says, “Don’t be afraid to share your creative ideas.” Q remembers being nervous during group discussions but came to see there was nothing to worry about because everyone was supportive and encouraging.

“Everyone here is super loving and open. So be as open as possible.”

New Growth

VERSIONS has helped Q grow in ways they never expected. From the creative aspects to the leadership skills, they are more in tune with themselves and the world at large.

“VERSIONS has made me more aware of the things around me and how intertwined everyone is, even from around the world. Hearing from the other fellows and working with them put everything into perspective.”