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New Year, New Voices

Goal setting, self-expression, and leadership

Teen Advisory Board Program (TAB) Goal: Introduce youth to spoken word poetry as a tool for self-expression and leadership.

January: “New Year, New Voices”

Focus: Goal setting, self-expression, and leadership
Literacy Element: Affirmation poems, poetry writing
Guest Artist: Spoken Word Poet (Frankie Red or Art Prevails)

Option 1: “Vision Boards & Affirmation Poems”

Goal: Help youth visualize their goals and express positive self-identity through poetry.

Materials Needed:

Poster boards or cardstock
Magazines, scissors, glue sticks
Markers, pens, stickers
Journals or writing paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:

Welcome & Icebreaker (10 min)
TAB members lead a “Word of the Year” activity.
Vision Board Creation (20 min)
Youth cut out images and words to create a collage of their goals.
TAB members assist with layout and conversation.
Affirmation Poetry (20 min)
TAB members introduce affirmation poems (e.g., “I am strong because…”).
Youth write short poems inspired by their boards.
Sharing Circle (10 min)
Invite youth to read their poems or explain their boards.
Wrap-Up (5 min)
Ask: “What’s one goal you’re excited about?”
Distribute small incentives. 

January: “New Year, New Voices” (continued)

Option 2: “Speak Your Truth” – Spoken Word Workshop

Goal: Introduce youth to spoken word poetry as a tool for self-expression and leadership.

Materials Needed:

Journals or writing paper
Microphone or speaker (optional)
Open space for performance
Snacks and water
Step-by-Step Instructions:

Warm-Up (10 min)
TAB members lead a “Poetry Snap” game.
Artist Performance & Talk (10–15 min)
Guest performs 1–2 spoken word pieces.
Discuss how poetry expresses identity and emotion.
Writing Workshop (20 min)
Artist leads a guided writing activity (e.g., “I am from…”).
TAB members help youth brainstorm and write.
Performance Practice (15 min)
Youth practice reading poems in small groups.
TAB members offer encouragement.
Mini Open Mic (10 min)
Invite youth to perform (optional).
TAB members emcee and cheer them on.
Wrap-Up & Reflection (5 min)
Ask: “How did it feel to share your voice?”
Thank the guest artist and distribute snacks.
 

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