“The interpersonal and intercultural connections we made were powerful. We heard about the different social impact issues each of us faced all around the world, and to be able to sit down and talk about those things was unlike anything I’d experienced before. We all had each other’s backs.”

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

Kam

The Multifaceted Artist Within

Kam, a two-spirited multimedia artist from London, Canada, has always had a love for music and the arts. From a young age, Kam’s affinity for music manifested through karaoke sessions with their grandmother. Singing and dancing around the room together was the spark that lit Kam’s passion. They were inspired to learn dance and various instruments to complement their vocals.

As they got older, Kam found themselves at a crossroads, unsure of where their passion for music would lead. The music industry seemed daunting, leaving Kam uncertain of where they should focus their efforts. Then came a guiding light: the VERSIONS Youth Fellowship.

“I didn’t really think a pathway into the music industry was something that I would be able to do or find my own. The Fellowship was an opportunity to push forward with opportunities I never had access to before.”

The Dream Evolves

Initially drawn to the allure of potential pop stardom, Kam’s aspirations morphed into something deeper. No longer satisfied trying to fit a mould, they sought a way to break free of their shell and embrace their uniqueness. Kam’s musical pursuit became grounded in self-expression.

“I didn’t want to be normal. I wanted people to know I’m different.”

A Leader and an Activist

Already a passionate advocate for LGBTQIA2S+ rights, Kam worked to integrate their musical ambitions with their commitment to social change. For them, VERSIONS provided the exact opportunity they’d been seeking to hone their craft and amplify their voice.

“The blend of music and social change was something I hadn’t expected from such a large program. But it made me really excited because I like to use my voice to empower others and remind them that they can do the same.”

Stepping into their VERSION

Within the Fellowship, Kam discovered the liberating power of vulnerability. Once hesitant to infuse their lyrics with political themes, they found a supportive community in VERSIONS. Here, Kam realized the power of addressing issues like intergenerational trauma through their music, recognizing the transformative potential of art infused with purpose.

“VERSIONS showed me it’s what people want to hear. It’s what people want to see. With our music, we are making a change with a purpose.”

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

When Kam was first accepted to the program, they battled with imposter syndrome. As a self-taught artist and a two-spirited individual, they often felt marginalized. But within the Fellowship, they felt a sense of belonging.

“It felt very surreal. Being a self-taught artist and being two-spirited, I often felt like an outcast or ‘othered.’ But in the Fellowship, I felt like I belonged.”

Connection After the Pandemic

Born amidst the pandemic, the VERSIONS Fellowship sought to foster connections in a time of isolation. Through virtual summits and collaborative projects, the 27 Fellows bonded with one another, forging connections that spanned borders and served as pillars of support.

“Just being able to sit there and see all these people from all over the world sitting together on our computers and talking… it’s very hard to explain how cool it was.”

Growing into Kam

While Kam was an active speaker and leader, they never felt truly comfortable in the spotlight. With the support and guidance of VERSIONS, they grew into the confident leader they strove to be. “I broke out of my shell and learned how to communicate in ways I’ve never communicated before.”

However, Kam’s biggest growth wasn’t in only one area; they say it was a holistic transformation. “Throughout the Fellowship, I was able to find that ‘true me,’ and find confidence in what I’m saying, who I’m talking to, and the collaborations I engage in.”

With the help of VERSIONS, Kam feels more confident about showing up as they are without having to compromise any aspect of themselves, their identity, or their purpose. “I don’t feel like I have to look or be a certain way to be an artist or to present myself. I can just be me, and you can just be you.”

Pouring from an Empty Cup

VERSIONS is a holistic program that enhances artistry and leadership while elevating the importance of self-care. Leaders and activists can’t make the changes they want to see in the world until they first take care of themselves. Kam affirms, “That sense of self and confidence plays a huge part in mental health, activism and in being an artist.”

Kam’s perspective on social change underwent a transformation through the VERSIONS program. They learned that true activism necessitates self-care and collective action, emphasizing the importance of sustainable advocacy and community support.

“The people who have been doing the most can’t keep doing the most because their arms are going to get tired really quickly.”

Advice to Future Applicants and Fellows

To aspiring applicants, Kam says, “Do it. If you think you’re being silly or if you think you’re not good enough at singing or guitar or whatever it may be, you’re lying to yourself.”

Kam shared how when they applied, they didn’t have access to their recording studio and sent in a poor recording, which they thought might not be good enough. But they’re proof that “You don’t need the best quality or high-end gear. You just need to do what you can.”

What’s next?

Now graduated from the VERSIONS Fellowship, Kam continues to expand a branch of their social impact project, Rough Around the Edges. Through platforms like Instagram, they aim to uplift and support BIPOC and queer spaces while supporting fellow artists.

Kam’s Parting Words:

Kam offers parting words, asking fellow artists and creatives to embrace the unpredictability of creativity and trust in themselves.

“For a lot of artists and creative beings, we can be hard on ourselves. Sometimes, we just have to be there and see where that takes us. And that’s exactly what brought me here.”