A catalyst for positive change

In January I affirmed my intentions to create positive social change in Peterborough through the wonderful art of Spoken Word Poetry. To commence my mission, I hosted and performed at the Lantern Initiative’s event ‘Soul Speak’. For those who didn’t attend, ‘Soul Speak’ was a spoken word and story-telling event where artists shared their experiences around the topic of mental health.

At the event we had Nazim, a spoken word poet and storyteller from Manchester, ‘Mizan the Poet’ from London, and our very own Peterborian poets Jamaal and Lookmann.

Their narrations were built on pillars of courage, honesty and rawness: topics included anxiety, depression, and suicide.

During the event, we laughed, cried, and shared moments of silence as words sketched imagery around the room. It occurred to me how impactful, not just the art of speaking creatively but also the sharing of our full selves, is. Seeing the power of sharing words loaded with raw emotion made me realise how much we need more of these open and honest dialogues.

Let’s break it down; think about a recent conversation you had, maybe you had an argument, told someone you loved them, or gave somebody encouragement. Your brain interpreted energy and emotion before constructing and selecting a series of meaningful symbols. These were then processed into sounds as you spoke, or hand gestures if you sign, which then met the ears or eyes of the recipient who’s brain then decoded these and formed understanding. This process happened in a matter of seconds and allowed you to make, break, enhance, or weaken a relationship. This process is not only fascinating to me, but I also see it as a tool and a responsibility. If voice has the ability to do that between two people, imagine what it can do across society when used positively? Our voice, something that we all have in some shape or form, is a catalyst for positive change.

I believe this is especially important with the topic of mental health. Aside from the obvious advantages of spreading awareness and nurturing empathy around those who are suffering, by talking about it we are also creating space to deal with these experiences as sufferers. Using poetry allows the writer to process, make sense of, and communicate, these experiences.

It’s actually one of the reasons I engaged with the art; I use it as an outlet, an ally, and a platform. It gives me a voice and allows me to inform people, as well as help others not feel alone.

I invite every single one of you to take part in this mission to hear everyone and improve our understanding of each other.

Let’s use what unites us to form relationships that are structured with respect, kindness, and a sense of belonging in our City.

l Feel free to get in touch and follow to stay updated on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook – @Malikaspeaks