Meet Siibii, A VERSIONS 2023 Alumni
In this series, we're highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You'll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship. Siibii Siibii’s musical journey began in Mississinti, Quebec, during long drives from the Cree…
Meet Nia Simone, A VERSIONS 2023 Alumni
In this series, we're highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You'll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship. Nia the Manifester Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Nia Simone's story is deeply…
Meet Zen Taylor, A VERSIONS 2023 Alumni
In this series, we're highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You'll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship. Zen "Music is in my blood," says Zen, reflecting on his musical heritage. Born…
Meet Victoria Ibek, A VERSIONS 2023 Alumni
In this series, we're highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You'll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship. Victoria When Victoria was just ten years old, her world was turned upside down.…
Meet Khan Khalii, A VERSIONS 2023 Alumni
In this series, we're highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You'll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship. Khan Khan Khalii, a singer, songwriter, and music producer from South Africa, shares her…
Meet Alex Anderson, A VERSIONS 2023 Alumni
In this series, we're highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You'll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship. Lex MD Born and raised in Jamaica, Alex "Lex MD" Anderson's journey into the…
Meet Jeremiah Otis, A VERSIONS 2023 Alumni
In this series, we're highlighting our VERSIONS Alumni. You'll learn about their transformative journeys with and through the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship. Jeremiah Beginnings Growing up in a community riddled with addiction and trauma, Jeremiah, a…
A Brief History of Black & Intersectional Feminism
Feminism, often described as a movement for the benefit of all, has unfolded in waves over the years, progressively evolving. At the beginning of the movement, however, it did not include a universal premise and…
Indigenous Women in Activism
Despite comprising only about 6% of the global population (largely thanks to colonization), Indigenous people total approximately 476 million people across 90 countries and play a crucial role in conserving over 80% of the Earth's…
Religious Ferocity in the Black Community
Picture the vibrant scenes of Black churches, where worshippers dress in their finest attire and sit in an atmosphere notably different from other religious settings. Enthusiastic cries of “amen” and other affirmations, coupled with joyful…
Lindy Hop: The Original Swing Dance
Welcome to the world of Lindy Hop - a swing dance pioneered by Black people that not only captivated audiences but broke societal barriers. Born out of a time of segregation, the Lindy Hip became…
Darkspark Origin Story: The Birth of an Artist-Led Non-Profit
We never set out to start an organization. As with so many things in our life, it kind of just…happened. Back in 2008, D’Ari and I made a major (and insane) life transition and moved…
Art as Revolution: A Medium for Change
Art, in all of its forms, can propel movements, change systems, shape culture, and unite people. When we reflect on social movements in history, we often see art standing at the heart of change. Prominent…
5 Tricks to Take Your Social Media Success to the Next Level as an Artist
As a new artist, social media will be a handy tool as you build your career. Olivia Rodriguez and Doja Cat and just two of countless artists who got their start on social media. Whether…
Hurt people, hurt people: How European history shaped the colonization of the Americas
Ever heard the phrase, “Hurt people hurt people?” You’ve likely come across it in discussions of bullying. While the statement never excuses a bully’s behaviour, it does offer an explanation of their behavioural origins and…
To serve and protect? The colonial history of police brutality in America
George Floyd’s murder was a tipping point that ignited collective rage around systemic anti-Black racism rampant in the police force. It was an all too well-known reality in Black communities, but the discussions expanded past…
Tap into Healing: EFT Tapping and the Butterfly Hug
We’re constantly forced to encounter stressors in our everyday lives. Stress comes at us in the form of school, work, family, relationships, and other aspects of daily living. In general, these stressors happen periodically, and…
Breaking The Cycle: Understanding and Healing Intergenerational Trauma
Recently, people have become fascinated with companies that can track our ancestry and DNA. Of course, it’s exciting to see our lineage and better understand our personal history. But how often do we wonder about…
3 Black Icons Who Used Their Music to Change the World
From rap and hip hop to RnB and more, Black artists are recognized for their musical talent and power to influence the masses. However, despite being at the forefront of culture and musical trends, Black…
The Complex History of Black Hair
If you have textured hair, you’re likely familiar with the smell of a hot comb on Sunday mornings, sitting between your grandmother’s legs with a wince as she pulls your hair into tight braids, or…