Community stories

    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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

“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, […]

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 […]

    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 […]

This year, Voice of Purpose launched the Catalyst Incubator, a 6 month container that provided mentorship and support to 4 artist-educators from across Canada and the US (including Toronto, Atlanta, Chicago and BC) in the creation and development of unique 8 week programs for participants across different age groups and artistic mediums. It’s 2023, and […]