Art as Mentorship transforms youth through music and mental health

Art as Mentorship, a Kansas City-based nonprofit, is making significant strides in empowering young people through creative expression and mentorship. During a recent government meeting, representatives highlighted their impactful programs, particularly the Rebel Song Academy, which was implemented at Alfred Fairfax Academy and Wyandotte High School during the 2023-2024 school year.

The Rebel Song Academy is a 12-week songwriting program that allows students to write, produce, and perform their original music alongside experienced artists from the music industry. This initiative not only fosters artistic talent but also provides essential social and emotional support, addressing the needs of historically underrepresented youth.

Enrique Chi, a musician and co-founder of the program, shared the origins of the Rebel Song Academy, which began as a music camp aimed at engaging local youth. The camp quickly evolved into a structured program that integrates mental health principles into its curriculum, thanks to collaboration with licensed therapists. Chi emphasized the transformative impact the program has had on participants, noting that it serves as a vital gateway for young people to express their struggles and seek help for mental health issues through the medium of art.

The program's unique approach allows students to discuss their mental health challenges in a more relatable context, making it easier for them to open up about their experiences. Chi recounted emotional moments during performances, where parents discovered their children's struggles through the songs they created, highlighting the program's role in fostering communication and understanding within families.

As Art as Mentorship continues to expand its reach, the organization remains committed to providing young people with the tools they need to succeed both artistically and personally, reinforcing the importance of mental health support in creative environments.