Young women from around Knowsley are set to unite this month as part of an inspirational an innovative Rites of Passage Programme.
Big Love Little Sista will see one hundred teenage participants from different vulnerable and at risk groups addressing issues creatively over eight weeks including wellbeing, mental distress, sexual health and preventative work around domestic violence.
The programme follows on from the success of Big Love Sista that took place earlier this year and is supported by Knowsley Youth Mutual, Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Public Health, LUSH, Knowsley Chamber of Commerce, Merseyside Police, Red Ninga, NWRUWU and Pink Media.
Creative Therapist and Founder of Big Love Sista, Clare Campbell said:
“We were overwhelmed by the reaction and impact that our last event had and it just made perfect sense to do it all again but this time to involve younger women. Women from the original project said over and over again how they wished this had been available when they were young and it would have saved them from lots of heartache and depression so that was a challenge we couldn’t resist.
“The main aim is to celebrate the lives of such strong and inspirational young girls who have incredible stories to tell. Visitors will be encouraged to celebrate sisterhood, which will help them to form new diverse friendships and boost team spirit, as well as their self-esteem.”
Clare and women from the original project will hold a variety of ‘arts in health’ activities including girls goddess circles and wilderness retreat days, dream boat trips, warrior art and creating six foot self portraits.
Those taking part will get a real chance to have their voice heard and will also have the opportunity to share their dreams amongst a mass audience including MPs and policy makers.
The programme will conclude with the girls holding their very own National Big Love Little Sista Festival and a lasting legacy of touring art exhibitions, inspiring roadshows, resources, books and Sista Stories affirmation cards which will travel internationally.
Clare added:
“The festival will be presented by the young women themselves together with Knowsley Youth Mutual and they will be sharing theirmoving personal journeys. It will take place on October 24 at The Venue and will be packed with creative wellbeing, workshops and real stories that will make a difference.”
The Big Love Little Sista Festival will take place on Tuesday, October 28 between 10am-4pm at The Venue (formerly Huyton Suite).
Early bird tickets are priced at £45 and tickets bought after August, 19 will be priced at £70.
For more information visit www.biglovesista.com