Free NDG studio helps teens find self-love through music
A drop-in music program at Head and Hands gives youth access to instruments and music software
Montreal teens find confidence, self-love at free music studio
CBC News Montreal
1 year agoHow important is it to have a creative space where you can express yourself?
For the teens that use J2K, a free music studio in NDG, it means the world.
The studio, run by non-for-profit organization Head and Hands, is open to teens from across Montreal — and generally attracts young people from marginalized or underserved communities.
"It's definitely a space for people who need another home, who need a family to pay attention to them and to give them a space without judgment," said Xavier Arocha, one of the animators.
Teens who come into the studio often leave feeling empowered. Arocha says he hopes the youth also learn to love themselves through the process.
"Be proud of where you come from, what your lineage is, who you are, what your struggles are," he said.
Shemar Mckie, 18, uses the studio every week.
An immigrant from St. Vincent, Mckie said he struggled in school because he didn't feel supported.
"You start believing, 'I'm not going to be anything in life,'" he said.
He eventually dropped out. At J2K, Mckie said he feels like he is working toward something.
Mckie said he doesn't know what he would be doing if he couldn't go to the studio.
"I feel like I would be out and about on the streets, not doing anything in my life," he said.
"I don't think I would do any good if I wasn't in this space."
About the Author
Comments
To encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations, first and last names will appear with each submission to CBC/Radio-Canada's online communities (except in children and youth-oriented communities). Pseudonyms will no longer be permitted.
By submitting a comment, you accept that CBC has the right to reproduce and publish that comment in whole or in part, in any manner CBC chooses. Please note that CBC does not endorse the opinions expressed in comments. Comments on this story are moderated according to our Submission Guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.