Introducing our Newest Youth Initiative: JESSAMINE
Named after the native flower that vines and blooms throughout South Carolina, Jessamine intends to interconnect girls, trans youth, and gender nonconforming youth in South Carolina by creating a disbursable project for creative youths to not only contribute to, but also own a copy of their own work.
This zine will be a printed and digital amalgamation of art, poetry, essays, stories, puzzles, playlists, collage, and anything else you can think of to represent the theme and your voice as a young person.
The idea for a different kind of program bloomed from the realization that long-standing commitments are not accessible to everyone. With the lasting effects of the pandemic and Zoom fatigue, it's become clear that attending sessions might not be plausible for youth and students who are also balancing school, part-time work, supporting their households, or nurturing their wellness and spirit in these trying times.
We wanted to offer a low-commitment framework for youth not just in the CYAP space, but for youth throughout South Carolina, and provide enough time in the summer to balance capacity, school, and other obligations. Youth that contribute can build relationships and connect with others at a pace that fits for them, display their writing, art, selfies, or playlist-making, and celebrate themselves and their voice.
Feel free to share these graphics (which is also on our Instagram) and this information with girls, trans, and/or gender nonconforming youth from SC who are dear to your heart. Frequently asked questions, specifications for submission, and other details are provided via the link below.
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Our call for submissions runs from March 30th to July 30th.
For more information and the submission form, click here.
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