First Youth Forum

Upon entering the room, we were greeted by the facilitators and welcomed into a warm circle. We were offered a variety of treats: baked goods, fruits, chips, and juice!

Although to many of us, this space was alien, and the people were unfamiliar, we felt enveloped in belonging and familiarity in no time. Through drama games and warm-ups, we learned to be silly together, to laugh together, and be comfortable around those who were strangers a moment ago. The magic of facilitators Manami and Linda was that at no point in time did they ever make any of us feel too uncomfortable or judged. Rather, they were able to foster a warm, spirited environment.

The workshop's main topic was improvisation, a topic quite unfamiliar and scary to most of us. As youth, I think there is a certain awkwardness we fear, so a voice often goes, "no that's a dumb idea". However, our facilitators shared wise words of wisdom with us: there are no mistakes in improv, so let yourself express the first thought that comes to mind.

I think it is this guiding principle that so effectively fostered a sense of familiarity between the facilitators and participants. When we were engaging in improv games, we allowed our first instinct to take control, no matter how silly it was, and we were able to laugh and joke about it together with everyone after.

Through self-expression with improv, we were all able to express our true, authentic selves. Meeting people for the first time, that was the most powerful way to connect and unite.

By Elena Sun

October 11, 2022