Youth Mentorship & Creative Development Program
Approach
The Youth Mentorship & Creative Development Program is an independent mentorship initiative led by visual artist, teaching artist, and youth mentor Deja Marie through her independent visual arts and mentorship business.
This program provides a safe, supportive environment for youth 12+ to express themselves, build confidence, and develop emotional strength through conversation, creative activities, and guided reflection.
Sessions take place outside of regular school hours (3:30 pm-6:00 pm) and are designed for students who may benefit from additional support, mentorship, and positive outlets beyond the classroom.
This program is not therapy or clinical counseling.
It is mentorship rooted in the arts, life experience, career development, and trusted guidance.
Participation may be covered through program funding when available.
Purpose of the Program
The goal of this program is to give youth access to a trusted mentor and a space where they can speak openly, think clearly, and grow without judgment.
Focus areas include:
Building self-confidence and identity
Encouraging healthy emotional expression
Supporting youth through personal challenges
Developing communication and decision-making skills
Using art as a tool for reflection and self-understanding
Creating positive peer connections
Entrepreneurship and career development (youth 16+)
Job readiness training (14+)
Academic support
Encouraging openness to counseling support when needed
This program is especially helpful for students who feel misunderstood, overwhelmed, or disconnected in traditional school environments.
Program Structure
8 week sessions may include:
One-on-one mentorship sessions
Small group mentorship sessions
Peer mentor support from older students
Creative activities such as drawing, building, journaling, and discussion
Reflection exercises and life-skills conversations
Meditation
Visits to community spaces that encourage calm and focus
Because the program does not operate from a single studio location, sessions may take place in approved public or community environments such as:
Botanical gardens
Art museums and galleries
Libraries
Community gardens
Cultural centers
Quiet public spaces
Outdoor parks and walking reflection sessions
These environments are intentionally chosen to help youth feel relaxed, open, and comfortable.
Parents are always informed of session locations in advance.
Peer Mentor Component
As the program grows, students may also have the opportunity to participate in small group sessions with peer mentors.
Peer mentors are older students who have previously worked with Deja Marie and understand the purpose of the program.
They help create a welcoming, supportive environment and serve as positive role models for younger participants.
Peer mentorship allows students to feel less alone and more comfortable sharing their thoughts in a safe group setting.
Safety & Guidelines
Parent or guardian permission is required for participation
Parents are informed of session locations and times
Sessions take place in public or approved community spaces
No overnight activities are included
Transportation arrangements are discussed with parents in advance
This program is mentorship, not licensed therapy
Professional counseling referrals may be encouraged when appropriate
The goal is to support youth while working respectfully alongside families, and professionals.
Cost & Funding
When funding or grant support is available, participation may be provided at no cost to families.
In some cases, parents may choose to provide small amounts for donation, food, or activity expenses during outings, but this is not required.
The intention of the program is to make mentorship accessible while maintaining a structured and professional environment.
About the Mentor
Deja Marie is a visual artist, teaching artist, and youth mentor with over 8 years of experience working with young people in creative, educational, and community settings.
Her background includes:
Youth arts programs
Community mentorship programs
Public health education work
Social-emotional learning through the arts
Independent curriculum development
Her work focuses on helping youth feel seen, understood, and supported while encouraging growth through creativity, reflection, and honest conversation.
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Turn a hobby into something more.
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Hand sewn accessories
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Youth modeling handmade jewlery
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Youth creating their own business plans
What My Textile Students Have To Say!
“This was so fun, I want to do this again!”
— Boncko Ba
“I really felt I learned a lot in this program and think Ms. Deja is a kind and dope teacher.”
— Francis
“I really felt I learned a lot in this program, in the beginning it was hard to draw the croquis, but I enjoyed drawing the clothing and putting everything together!”
— Destiny
“I enjoyed the program, at first I didn’t think so because some things were difficult, but once I got past that it was really cool!”
— Halima & Ka’Shari
JOIN NOW
Contact / Enrollment
For questions about the program or to discuss participation, please use the contact form on this website.
This is an 8 week program that runs every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday during after-school hours: 3:30 pm-5:30 pm, or 3:30 pm-6:00 pm depending on activities.
Because this is a small mentorship program, availability is limited.