Our 3rd Catalyst Voices gathering, held April 2022, allowed us the opportunity and invitation to peer inwards, and consider the concept of defining, integrating and embodying the transformative energy of being a catalyst.  At Voice of Purpose, we encourage our many communities to be ignitors of transformation – Able to recognize the sparks […]

Also known as the enchanting Cindy Nero, Xitlali Celesté (formerly known as Sebastian Olayo) is a nonbinary queer Mexican-American drag performer, writer and teaching artist, living and loving in Chicago, Illinois. Xitlali is impassioned and empowered by exploring themes of politics, gender fluidity and accessibility through her  art.  Xitlali gets right to the root: “The […]

“I would describe myself as a humanitarian. I love human connection and I stand up for what I believe in and what’s right”. Choreographer and dance teacher Veronica Silk strives to co-create safer spaces with her students, as she connects to the magic within the youth in the Black dance community.  At Voice of Purpose, […]

At the intersection of disability justice and creativity, lies Maurina’s passion as an arts educator, who finds beauty and connection in healing and coping with trauma through art. When asked about her artistic practices, Maurina says: “I personally go with the ebb and flow of experiences I have. Of course I call myself a mixed-media […]

While digital environments aren’t always the most accessible medium for all, it is also true that online tools, for many, are a very powerful and effective way of learning new things and connecting with new people. There is such a palpable magic in human to human connections and the energy exchange that comes with conversations, […]

Within the context of learning, navigating the digital world is a duo-level challenge. It represents the nuance of being both vitally and transcendently important, while also being an inaccessible barrier to some. Accessibility, and the re-definition of such, became a key topic when discussing the characteristics of a digital learning environment. For example, there are […]

    Impassioned through conscious storytelling and his love for music, Aaleem’s purpose is deeply rooted in his commitment to the youth within his communities, as well as honoring the oral traditions of music making to encourage and affirm the spirit and collective energy of those who are finding their voice.  When asked to consider […]