In a powerful convergence of arts and activism, St Jude’s School for Girls recently hosted a transformative creative awareness session designed to equip vulnerable youth with protective tools against human trafficking and modern slavery. This collaborative initiative brought together Bocas Lit Fest and Chosen Hands—an art and wellness organization founded by Anika Plowden-Corentin—during the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
The program established a compassionate creative environment where participants explored critical personal development themes including self-awareness, boundary-setting, and resilience building. Through multidisciplinary approaches incorporating storytelling, mindfulness practices, and visual art expression, facilitators created what organizers described as ‘a sanctuary for courage and self-discovery.’
Plowden-Corentin emphasized the foundational philosophy driving the initiative: ‘When young people receive safe spaces for expression, reflection, and imagination, they progressively reclaim their voices and recognize their inherent power. Our mission at St Jude’s centered on inviting these girls to perceive themselves as worthy, resilient individuals capable of actively shaping their destinies.’
The literary component, orchestrated by Bocas Lit Fest, featured spoken word artist Deneka Thomas guiding students through dynamic creative writing and performance exercises. Participants collaboratively composed an original poem rooted in their collective experiences and aspirations, fostering both unity and confident self-expression.
Supporting the event were key Bocas Lit Fest personnel including Youth Programme Manager Marielle Forbes, Children’s Programme Manager Melvina Hazard, and Marketing/Media Manager Joy Luk Pat. The mindfulness dimension was enhanced by Dionysia Browne of Calm for Corporate, whose grounding exercises strengthened participants’ emotional preparedness and internal awareness.
The partnership exemplifies a growing recognition that arts-based education and emotional support can serve as vital protective mechanisms for vulnerable populations. By integrating creative expression with practical safety strategies, the program provided both immediate tools and long-term empowerment frameworks for at-risk youth navigating complex societal challenges.