Our mission at Writers of Oya is to serve the diverse community of adolescents by utilizing the practice of poetry to enrich their mental health and emotional development. We believe in support and empowerment of the youth through the lens of commitment and acceptance that will allow them to live their lives passionately, positively, and transformationally. We embody the values of our Writers of Oya mantra: “I am safe. I have value. I am loved.”

The purpose of our courses, is to teach/utilize writing, through the form of poetry, as a useful tool for healthy self-expression, for adolescents.  Poetry, in various forms, can also: serve to cope with varying stressors, promote positive self-esteem, and help to better achieve self-efficacy.  Though therapeutic concepts and methodologies will be utilized, this program will not serve as a replacement for therapy.  Should further assistance be needed, students, and their guardians, will be provided with appropriate resources for further actions.

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The Process:

Step 1
Reflect

Allow yourself to immerse in an environment that creates confidence, self reflection, and self exploration.

Step 2
​Write

Learn the art of Slam poetry in regards to composition, speech, and performance strategies.

                    Step 3
​                   Recite

Demonstrate confidence and resilience by participating in poetry events in the community.

Student Voices

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Unmasked is the first work of poetry by the Writers of Oya. It comprises of reflections and thoughts from the participants. 

You can find the Unmasked spoken word album on Spotify and other streaming platforms

Writers of Oya in the News 

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l​www.news-gazette.com/opinion/columns/name-dropping-urbanas-first-youth-poet-laureate-has-powerful-message/article_c992f97a-c1a8-53d0-a005-deaca71a3ca5.html


nationalguild.org/programs/training-learning/groundwork/people


www.smilepolitely.com/arts/the_writers_of_oyas_debut_collection_of_poetry_unmasks_their_serious_power/
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