Chewstick helps to create positive vibes

Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes.  Art is knowing which ones to keep. — Scott Adams.

What you do today can improve all of your tomorrows.  This is a key message that the Economic Empowerment Zones Agency in North East Hamilton works to convey through its support of grassroots organizations like the Chewstick Foundation (Chewstick). 

Chewstick is neo-griot movement embodying creative expression and social justice to enrich, youth, arts, culture and community. Their focus is on breaking down personal and interpersonal barriers, to move toward unifying the separate factions that exist in our island home. Chewstick champions the notion that if voice is given to the stories of our people, the silos of social segregation built on age-old misinformation and misconceptions will be given the opportunity to heal.  This healing has been seen in various mediums, such as community, spiritual, and social development.

Chewstick, a mere 10 years young, recently held a celebration of this milestone at the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium. Through poetry and song, they told their story of the development of the charity and the mission. Their leadership team of Gavin Smith, Najib Chentouf, and Deidre Lee have inspired a generation to develop their voices through poetry, literacy, public-speaking and confidence building.  Located on the corner of Elliot and Court Streets this eclectic lounge showcases gripping artwork on a backdrop of calming earth tones creating a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for encouraging creativity. 

Chewstick’s weekly Sunday night open-mic jam sessions provide locals and non-locals with an opportunity to hone their skills; the charity also offers workshops and lectures led by local and international cultural icons, Chewstick members, and partner charities. 

This grass roots organization has introduced the North East Hamilton EEZ to many individuals who in the past may not have frequented the area.  Many neighbouring business owners have expressed the passionate and heartfelt love that they have received from the patrons that visit Chewstick. Additionally, the Chewstick crews have been leaders in creating change and addressing the perceptions of North East Hamilton. As a result, many people have “Felt the Love” of the EEZ having experienced one of the jewels that comprise this rich cultural community.

The Chewstick team’s awe inspiring young progressive leaders are changing lives by exciting others to live their dreams.  Their selfless actions within a time when so many others have a “what can you do for me” attitude, create opportunities to bring our divided community together and help heal age old wounds by allowing people the opportunity to express and understand each other in an environment of peace.

As an external expression of their desire to bring people together, Chewstick invited the public to participate in a community art project which allowed the public to paint the outside of their building with symbols of peace. Tables and benches have been positioned outside so that all who pass by have the opportunity to take in the beautiful artwork.    This community art will be rotated quarterly with new pieces designed year-long to speak to a range of community issues. As art is ever evolving so is the Chewstick Foundation.  The EEZA looks forward to continuing to work with Chewstick to support the community and social development of North East Hamilton.

Roxanne Christopher is the Economic Development Officer for the North East Hamilton EEZ.  For additional information please contact [email protected] or call 292-5570.  In addition, visit www.bedc.bm for more information on the range of services available to all businesses within the North East Hamilton EEZ.