A clear vision, a number of passionate and engaged youth, inspiring performers, and many generous community donations, make up the Sparkfest recipe for success.
The vision comes from Kate Maurice – Mentor/Supervisor of SWOVA’s Pass It On program – and from amazing organizer, James Cowan. The passionate and engaged youth are the participants in SWOVA’s Pass It On program. The inspiration flows through the incredible performers.
Kinnie Starr gets the crowd moving at Sparkfest 2013
The other ingredient in the Sparkfest recipe which made it such a success this year was the audience! Over 100 members of our wonderful community came out to show support for youth on Salt Spring Island.
On the bill for this year’s event were music from Kinnie Starr, T.Nile, and Julia Beattie, dance from Naomi Jason & Advanced Dancers, poetry from Cat Paquette, and yoga from Shannon Cowan. The performers honoured the mentors in their lives and shared stories about their journeys.
Julia Beattie at Sparkfest 2013
Sparkfest raised funds which will make a big difference to youth in the Pass It On program. This year, 15 young women from the high school mentored 15 grade 8 girls, helping them to make the transition to high school. The concept of Pass it On is to pass on wisdom, information, inspiration, understanding, and support from adults to young women, and young women to girls, thus strengthening our community ties and connecting youth – who often feel isolated from their community. Sparkfest was a perfect example of passing on creativity, inspiration and generosity of spirit.
The list of people to thank is long and we value the incredible support from our community. Businesses gave prizes for the silent auction, Harbour House donated the Orchard room and accommodation for off island performers, Rawsome Living Foods fed them while they were here, and all the performers donated their time and creativity. In addition, to all the businesses and parents who donated time goods, services and support – a huge THANK YOU!
In gratitude…
SWOVA