The Change Through Art program offers an opportunity for innercity youth in Jamaica to express themselves through various forms of art. These forms include: dance, singing, rapping, recording, yoga, drama, videography even carpentry! Manifesto Jamaica was one of the founding partners for the Change Through Art Program, which was spearheaded by Youth Crime Watch Jamaica and the Office of Social Entrepreneurship at the University of the West Indies. Manifesto JA delivered the Arts Training module, which was one of 3 of their modules.

The testimonial video of these youths says it all. They speak on how the program has changed them in a positive manner and taught them so much. Some words that were brought up in their testimonials include: change, attitude, posture, positivity, respect, motivate, uplift, teamwork, high energy, control my anger, learn, reach others, go for what I want, my goal, my dreams, showcase, express myself, elevation, bring it to the world!

One of the youts who was in this program went further after learning about the music industry in the Change Through Art program.

"Kenardo 'Diggi Don' Foster said he benefited from the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's Change Through Art manifesto, which taught him all facets of the music industry.

The 22-year-old is being looked on as a good addition to the industry. "We like his message and we know his music brings hope to the youth, who need to know there are clean lyrics available," Wayne Tyrell, head of Multi-Media, said.

Foster's aim is to become a household name in Jamaica and internationally and also to spread his message of peace through his music."

Source: Jamaica-Star.com