cohealth arts gen brings on our dream ii

cohealth Arts Generator, a program of cohealth – leading provider of health and support services in Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs, announces major event, Our Dream II.

Our Dream II is a unique event that draws on the power of positive reconnection for South Sudanese young people and their families. The event is designed and delivered by African young people who are participants in cohealth Arts Generator’s Benchmark program, a weekly music-making experience that fosters collaboration, understanding and reconnection through participatory arts.

Our Dream II is an experiential approach to collectively imagine a different kind of future for a group of South Sudanese young people, who carry the heavy burden of coming to Australia from a war torn country as children or early teens.

A brand new video clip ‘One Day’ – based on a collective song composed out of the Benchmark program – will be launched at the event. The video speaks to a sense of hope within the community for a different kind of future which breaks the cycle of substance abuse and isolation from family that has taken a major toll on members of this community. Young artist Shawtee reflects on her connection to her peers:

‘No hate, no lies, let’s be honest, that’s the only way I’m gonna survive
And begin to revive those lost in the strife, and those who tried and ultimately
got left behind’

Our Dream II is a bridge for young people and their families to see each other in anew light – one that illuminates potential and creativity.

What: A ritualized performance that memorializes young men from the SouthSudanese community who have died in the last three years.

A plethora of young culturally diverse artists will showcase their music and dance to the broader community.

It is a free event for all of the community with a focus on African Australians.

A range of creative family friendly activities along with a community feast will bring people together and celebrate a sense of unity and common ground.

Performers include MASSIVE Fam, The Movement, female rapper from Flemington Azzy and Footscray up and comer Yaw Mulatto. Young artists from the Benchmark Program will also feature on the day.

When: 3.00 – 8.00pm Sunday 9 November, 2014

Where: Footscray Community Arts Centre 45 Moreland Street, Footscray

Why: cohealth arts generator works in partnership with individuals and communities who experience limited access to arts and cultural opportunities. Through participatory arts practice cohealth arts generator aims to increase health and wellbeing by unlocking creative potential and building connections to the broader community.