Each Friday, Epicenter features a special “where to be” post on their blog to make sure every day of the week has some sort of cultural event to check out. We hope that you all can come out into the community, learn, and commemorate some influential people and events around Boston! Have something coming up that you’d like to see here? Tweet us @epicentercom and follow the hashtag #WhereToBe.

Friday 12.23

Celebrating Kickback Boston’s 1 Year Anniversary!

Hosted by: Kickback Boston

“You vibed, sipped and kicked it with us all year so let’s close out an eventful 2016 with major chunes from Yvng Pavl and BREK.ONE at our one year anniversary party.

In the SZN of giving, admission proceeds will be donated to Boston Peace League.”

Where: dbar | 1236 Dorchester Ave, Boston MA
When: 10:30pm

For more info and to buy tickets, visit: https://kickbackboston.splashthat.com

Saturday 12.24

Free Adult Beginner’s Yoga Class

Hosted by: City Pop Egleston

“Hands to Heart Center — Yoga for the People provides free Beginner Yoga classes for adults at CityPOP Egleston on Saturdays from 11 am to 12 noon. No yoga experience is necessary and we provide yoga mats. HTHC’s classes are designed to be accessible, inclusive and inspiring!”

When: 11am

Where: City Pop Egleston | 3195 Washingston St, Jamaica Plain, MA

For more info, go to: https://www.facebook.com/events/394427014281805/

Sunday 12.25

Community Event & Free Book Day!

Hosted by: The Humanist Hub

“We are committed to opening our doors on Sunday, December 25, for the first time ever. But we want to know what you want to see happen that day: a speaker? a potluck? a party? a movie and discussion? Please give us your feedback in the discussion section and we’ll coordinate! We will also have a book giveaway: we’ve recently inherited a huge library of books on humanism, philosophy, and ethics, and we’re proud to offer them to our community!”

When: 1:30pm

Where: The Humanist Hub | 30 JFK Street, 4th Floor, Cambridge MA

For more information, go to: https://www.facebook.com/events/430819360639059/

Monday 12.26

Holiday Hangover

Hosted by: Societe Sociale

“Set to a 90’s soundtrack, Holiday Hangover is a day party powered by music, food, fashion, art and a dope group of people. Hosted by VH Style Lab and J&S Entrepreneurial Entertainment. Music by @Bobby Bangers, Live performance by Jeffandy AllTogether, Art Exhibit by Free Marseille!”

When: 1pm

Where: Savvor Restaurant & Lounge | 180 Lincoln St, Boston MA

For your tickets, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-hangover-brunch-day-party-tickets-29911790972

Tuesday 12.27

International Conference on Technology Innovation & Learning Technology

Hosted by: IISRC Corporation

“This conference covers a wide range of fields in science and engineering innovation and aims to bring together engineering technology expertise. The professional from the industry, academia and government to discourse on research and development, professional practice, business and management in the science and engineering fields are welcome to the ICTILT 2016.”

When: 9am

Where: Boston City Hall Plaza | 1 City Hall Sq, Boston MA

For more information, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/1740811329523433/

Wednesday 12.28

Free Mixing, Tips and Techniques

Hosted by: Bristol Recording and Voice Studios

“Want to experience a professional recording session? Whether you’re a beginner who’s ready to embrace the possibilities of producing your own music, or a seasoned musician looking to improve your production skills. Presented by #BristolStudios Senior Engineer Chris Billias. Sign up now online at http://www.bristolstudios.com/engintroform.htm”. This event is FREE!

When: 7pm

Where: Bristol Recording & Voice Studios | 169 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston MA

For more information, please visit: http://bristolstudios.com/engintroform.htm

Thursday 12.29

Paide Academy Kwanzaa Celebration & Fundraiser

Hosted by: Paige Academy Nursery & Elementary School

“Please come out and support our Kwanzaa celebration. Our goal is to raise $10,000 which will support our much needed programs within the Roxbury Community. Your ticket price will include appetizers and a buffet dinner. We will also have Live Music and a Kwanza ceremony with Keynote speaker L’Merchie Frazier Director of Education at Museum of African American History Boston/Nantucket. The event will be held at the First Church in Roxbury one of the oldest churches in Roxbury.”

When: 5:30pm

Where: First Church in Roxbury Putnam | 10 Putnam St, Boston MA

To get more information, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paige-academy-kwanza-celebration-fundraiser-tickets-29658477304?aff=efbevent

#WhereToBe 12.23–12.29 was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Each Friday, Epicenter features a special “where to be” post on their blog to make sure every day of the week has some sort of cultural event to check out. We hope that you all can come out into the community, learn, and commemorate some influential people and events around Boston! Have something coming up that you’d like to see here? Tweet us @epicentercom and follow the hashtag #WhereToBe.

Friday 12.30

MFA Film: Inland Empire

Hosted by: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

“Join us for a special presentation of Inland Empire, screened on David Lynch’s own 35mm print. Before the show, grab a drink at Taste Café and enjoy the nocturnal surf rock sounds of Volcano Kings, starting at 6:15 pm…The MFA’s Film Program is recognized as one of the country’s leading independent exhibitors of film, presenting more than 500 screenings of independent, foreign and classic films every year.”

When: 7pm

Where: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston | 465 Huntington Ave, Boston MA

For tickets and more information, go to: http://www.mfa.org/programs/film/closing-night-inland-empire?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=film&utm_medium=social-post

Saturday 12.31

HipStory House Party Volume VI (New Year’s Edition)

Hosted by: HipStory Boston

“We’re raising money to help with our official launch party in 2017! Donation can be from $1- $Unlimited, give what you can and come out, party, vibe and listen to great music with us, as we get rid of 2016 and usher in the New Year!”

When: 8:30pm

Where: The White Haus | Searvens St, Jamaica Plain MA

For more info, visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/351405048566924/

BlessedYou Clothing NYE Celebration

Hosted by: Jeremy Colon & Manny Starks

“YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS ONE OF THE CRAZIEST EVENTS HAPPENING IN BOSTON ON NYE !BlessedYou Clothing, Boston Brothers Promotions & MVP Entertainment present:New Years Eve 2017 at The North Star Boston !

Ticket includes: Complimentary Champagne, Live airing of NYC Times Square Ball Drop, Dancing to DJ Doze, NYE Party Favors, BlessedYou Gear”

When: 9pm

Where: NorthStar Lounge, 222 Friend St, Boston MA

Tickets and info: https://northstar2017nye.eventbrite.com/?aff=Jeremy

Sunday 1.1

The Art of Introspection & Intent: New Year’s Day

Hosted by: Ame Wren Yoga

“Combining elements of vinyasa, yin and restorative yoga, Ame will guide you through a grounding sequence aimed at calming the nervous system and cultivating quiet space. Throughout class you will be encouraged to reflect on the practices of the year before and create intentions for the year to come, coupling asana with reflection and meditation.”

When: 3pm

Where: JP Centre Yoga | 670 Centre St, Fl 3rd, Jamaica Plain MA

Go to https://www.facebook.com/events/159952517802343/ for more info.

Monday 1.2

Standing Up For Ourselves: Self- Café for Activists

Hosted by: Hand to Heart Center

“You probably know by now that Hands to Heart Center offers some of the most inspiring, healing, community-building events in Boston — all for free! We’re happy to share our next one with you and if you haven’t heard of Feldenkrais, you should definitely check it out! “Feldenwhat?!” Trust us.

You will get the most out of classes if you can commit to coming to all three, but you are welcome to any that you can attend. We are teaching:

Monday Jan 2 — Interrupting the body pattern of anxiety

Monday Jan 16 — Standing powerfully

Monday Jan 30 — Accessing breath”

When: 7pm

Where: City Pop Egleston | 3195 Washington St, Boston MA

For more info, go to: https://www.facebook.com/events/685093884990354/

Wednesday 1.4

Spoken Word Reading

Hosted b y: Turning On the Lights Global Institute

“Dr. Allana Da Graca is an Educator and Artist who has traveled the world sharing her love for education and poetry. She will read from her latest book, Chronicles of A Poet.”

When: 8pm

Where: Dudley Café | 15 Warren St, Roxbury MA

For more info, go to: https://www.facebook.com/events/561566087380968/

Thursday 1.5

White Privilege and How to Leverage It

Hosted by: Boston GLOW

“Join us for discussion on white privilege and how to use it to help those around you. The discussion will be facilitated by Dr. Natalie Perry of Northeastern University and Elizabeth Baldwin of Knapsack Boston.
Learn what white privilege is and how to use it to intervene in situations and challenge racism. We invite all members of the community to join us in discussion and resource sharing.”

When: 6:30pm

Where: Hennessey’s | 25 Union St, Bston MA

Need more info? Go to: https://www.facebook.com/events/100312483800827/

#WhereToBe 12.30–1.5 was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

“Heather is a self-described Disability Advocate, author, mother, chocolate lover, daydreamer and cane-user. She’s also a co-founder of Divas with DisAbilities, a group that “aims to showcase the diversity and normalcy of women of color with the goal of impacting and transcending the definition of what disability looks like from our perspective.”

Follow Heather on Twitter and read her amazing written articles/ pieces here!

Who Has Been Your Most Influential Mentor?

I’m fond of saying that I’m bookended by great women, my mother and daughter. My mother, the eldest of 6 kids lost her mother at 13 and basically had to create her own blueprint for how to be and survive in a world that is not often kind to a motherless child. Her wisdom was culled from the slings and arrows of being multiply-marginalized as a disabled woman of color with a learning disability and late diagnosis of psychiatric disability. She is also celebrating 12 years of addiction recovery and is such a survivor and pillar of strength in my eyes. My daughter is a self-assured young adult who is comfortable in her skin as both a POC and member of LGBTQ+ community. She is creative, musically-inclined and living her truth with such ferocity and verve. Might be biased but I love those examples, and I know you said “most influential mentor” as in one but it’s split for me.

How Did You Get To Where You Are Today?

Through a lot of self-reflection taking personal inventory in considering my life’s trajectory. I don’t know who I’d be if it were not for having a disability since it permeates every aspect of my life experience and really made me consider all of my choices carefully. I was born with Muscular Dystrophy and didn’t use mobility aids until about 10 years ago in my 30’s. Now I use a cane and on occasion a manual wheelchair depending on the day, event, venue, etc. it’s really not as depressing as the ill-informed media would have you believe. Doesn’t mean my life is sans frustration certainly not a tip toe through tulips and not a minefield but exists beyond that binary in context with all things considered. When I take the comprehensive view I know I’ve become a better person and parent because of disability. It factored highly in my decision-making impacting quality of life areas like housing, education, employment, socializing, etc and I use that lived experience to help inform public policy by serving on disability-related boards and councils. I also write as an extension of my advocacy and artistry; my blog name “Slow Walkers See More” is my philosophy.

I can also affirm that availing myself to diverse circles of advocacy and finding a network of other disability advocates especially disabled POC and most especially disabled WOC has been transformative

I can also affirm that availing myself to diverse circles of advocacy and finding a network of other disability advocates especially disabled POC and most especially disabled WOC has been transformative. It has sharpened my advocacy skills, sensitivity, and self-awareness and has helped to uncap my potential. I believe our brilliance is buffed by one another on this journey. It’s been quite the evolution and the reason I now self-identify as “disabled Black woman” knowing disability/disabled is an identity-marker not an indictment and has culture, pride, and political movement. Such a revelation learning that “DIS” prefix is not only “un” and “not” but also has a Latin and Greek derivative meaning “duo” and “two” hence *another* way of doing and being.

Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?

In 5 years I hope to be doing much of the same being a disability advocate. I’m really fueled by what I do and continue to learn so much about many folks and intersecting areas. I do wish to add another degree and some world travel to augment skillset and global perspective of disabled folks especially in developing countries beyond what I’ve seen in media or read.

What About This City Inspires You?

I love that Boston is the hub of healthcare and education, that so many come here to this lil international city seeking better health, knowledge, and so many artists and activists provide the beat and backdrop and pull their weight something often absent the front page. Redact the bios of marginalized folks and you’ll reduce the beauty and contributions of many; Boston is alive and that pulse should be tapped more.

Redact the bios of marginalized folks and you’ll reduce the beauty and contributions of many; Boston is alive and that pulse should be tapped more

Boston should be… inclusive and accessible to all structurally and systemically. Maybe I’m pipe-dreaming here but let’s continue to get close to that reality.

Boston could be… more accessible if more small business owners took advantage of tax incentives (deducts and credits) for accessibility upgrades per https://www.ada.gov/taxincent.pdf and matching grant programs like https://www.boston.gov/economic-development/storefront-improvements because you can’t “shop local” if you can’t gain entry due to stairs, narrow doorways/aisles, inacessible restrooms/parking, etc. Also many disabled folks/people with disabilities often shop with non-disabled friends and fam and when a business is not accommodating or accessible potential revenue is lost. It’s a collective loss and a form of discrimination and in many cases more than likely illegal since the Americans with Disabilities Act exists to ensure disabled person’s civil rights and also provides the legal backing to pursue litigation should it come to that.

Boston wants to be… innovative in all sectors and that requires respecting the experiences of people not typically thought as leaders and changemakers. Diversity is beyond being PC and color spectrum; it’s about devising a talent pool that creates learning exchanges. Life experiences that don’t mirror your own can be great teachers, spark thought, and may have heightened sensitivity, analytical, and adaptive skills to offer.

Boston needs… to realize like much of the global and media landscape that leadership and strength look different on different bodies. It’s not always the loudest voice, or the fast talker or walker. Sometimes it’s the slow, methodical, mover without the benefit of formal education, who might exist in the margins but may have a solid plan that could prove successful and have a beneficial radius of impact.

#WCW: Heather Watkins was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

BOSTON, MA — Epicenter Community is proud to announce the nineteen business concepts accepted into the fifth annual Accelerate Boston, a six-month educational program for entrepreneurs looking to start creative businesses.

For the past five years has brought over 20 businesses to market, including the first black Mass Challenge winner and the fashion platform in Forbe’s 30 Under 30. Accelerate Boston has engaged 85 businesses, 96% of founders under 40, 77% creators of color, and 53% female.

“Over the past five years we have proved that there are investable businesses in Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan and we are looking forward to continue to identify economic growth potential in our neighborhoods.” — Malia Lazu

Accelerate Boston runs from January-June based on three core areas of development: Strategic mentorships with business leaders, bi-monthly classes based on a traditional MBA-curriculum taught through storytelling and first-hand experiences; and networking events, including BREAD; a transformative business development experience.

At the end of the six-month program, each company will pitch their business plan in an Investor showcase for the opportunity to receive funding from the panel of judges. Past winners have included Fresh Food Generation 2012, 19th Amendment 2013 and Beauty Lynk 2014.

Without further adieu, the 2017 Class of Accelerate Boston:

Ov stills LLC

Calypso Catering

BLK MKT Boston

Made Organics

Satara Halfkenny-Wilson Inc

ACT Designs

Shana Bryant Consulting

JC Enterprises

Trend Stream

Vinylmint

Munchiees

KickBack Boston

Coach Damali

Beauty N Simplicity

Kreyol

HipStory Media Brand

The Collier Connection

Study Buddiez

PetsEmpower

Activating Boston’s Inner City Economy: #Acceleratebos Selects 5th Cohort. was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

The Roxbury Innovation Center is an amazing iniative based in the ❤ of Dudley Square. Not only do they regularly host incredibly beneficial events and programs benefiting the community, they have their own series of informational and networking workshops that will help anyone navigate a myriad of topics including learning software essential to growing your business and much more.

Here are Roxbury Innovation Center’s upcoming workshops!

Wednesday, February 01st — Get your Business online with Google

Join Google for a walk through the steps to add your business to Google Search and Google Maps and to keep all your info up to date for customers searching online. For more information click here

Tuesday, February 07th — Learn Lab Community: Fundamentals of Excel

This workshop introduces users to the features of Microsoft Excel. The workshop demonstrates how to navigate cells, format spreadsheets, use functions and formulas, and set up tables. The instructor will teach from Office 2016, but will indicate differences in previous versions. For more information click here

Wednesday, February 08th — Conversation in Civic Innovation: Broadband Equity

Broadband has become an assumed service, and yet in some parts of the state — and even the city — high-speed internet access is limited, unavailable, or unaffordable. Broadband access is necessary to help our students learn, to build small businesses and to enable residents to engage as citizens. Please join us for a discussion on Broadband Equity.

Tuesday, February 21st — Learn Lab: Small Business: Excel for Small Business

This workshop builds on the previous fundamentals class by diving a bit deeper. The workshop will cover creating PivotTables, using VLOOKUP, and absolute references. Attendees will also learn to make attractive charts and link tables in PowerPoint to present your data. The instructor will teach from Office 2016, but will indicate differences in previous versions. For more information click here

Tuesday, March 07th — Learn Lab Education: Blended Learning w/ Office 365

Office 365 is free for students and teachers of Boston Public Schools! You may be aware of some of the great tools available in Office 365, but do you know how you can use OneDrive, Skype for Business, and OneNote Class Notebooks to help you incorporate blended learning in your classroom? Let’s explore blended learning, its impact on teaching and learning, and see how the full suite of tools provided within Office365 will help you build a robust learning environment that fosters student success. For more information click here

5 Workshops You Don’t Want To Miss w/ Roxbury Innovation Center was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Each Friday, Epicenter features a special “where to be” post on their blog to make sure every day of the week has some sort of cultural event to check out. We hope that you all can come out into the community, learn, and commemorate some influential people and events around Boston! Have something coming up that you’d like to see here? Tweet us @epicentercom and follow the hashtag #WhereToBe.

Friday 12.16

Beast: The Race to 1000 Pledges

Hosted by: The Record Co.

“Do you support local music? We do. And we need your help….[continue reading or head straight to www.bostonsessions.org]. We just wrapped up production on a multi-genre compilation album of 13 new songs from 13 Boston-based artists and we’re ready to share it with you. It’s called Beast (Boston Sessions Vol. 1) and it’s available digitally RIGHT NOW.

Not only did we pay each artist’s production costs, but we also paid each artist personally for their contribution to the project. This was a big risk for our small organization and we need your support to make the project a success. In order to continue our work we need 1000 people to pledge support for the project by midnight on December 16th. A pledge could be $10 for an instant download or $25 for a vinyl record. Whatever the amount: every pledge gets us closer to our 1000 pledge goal. Will you help? Share this event and then pledge your support at www.bostonsessions.org.”

When: 12pm

Where: The Record Co. | 960 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston MA

Saturday 12.17

Hunter Space’s 2017 Goal Setting Workshop

Hosted by: The Hunter Space

“Hunters Space Goal Setting Workshop offers the opportunity for you to focus on and conduct a deep dive into your business goals for the New Year. Our emphasis will be on the importance of Structure, Strategy, and Systems for the New Year. Our hope is that through this combination of business strategy and goal setting you will leave activated with the tools and mindset to bring your business aspirations to fruition for 2017.Through this full day workshop you will be able to clearly identify your business’trajectory/ timeline for the new year as well as immediate next steps. From financial breakdown to building your dream team,this goal setting workshop will have you covered. At the end of the workshop you will receive planning tools and resources that you will be able to immediately utilize in your business.”

When: 9am

Where: 1660 Soldiers Field Rd, Brighton MA

For more info, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hunters-space-goal-setting-workshop-tickets-29561103055

Sunday 12.18

Sunday Jazz Brunch ft. Valerie Stephens & Her Blessings

Hosted by: Darryl’s Corner Bar & Kitchen

“It is time to have another Sunday Brunch Party! Make plans to join us Sunday, October 16th and enjoy our live jazz music performed by Valerie Stephens. Genre: Jazz / Blues / Spoken Word

The All You Can Eat Brunch Menu Will Include Items Such As: scrambled eggs, grits, waffles, turkey bacon, breakfast links, ham, fried chicken, BBQ ribs, rice and beans, collard greens, candied yams, mac and cheese, fresh fruit, assorted desserts and other special items. Brunch Costs: Adults ($24.95), Youth 6–12 yrs. ($16.95), Children Under 6 Years (FREE).”

When: 10:30am

Where: Darryl’s Corner Bar & Kitchen | 604 Columbus Ave, Boston MA

To reserve your table, go to: www.dcbkboston.com/reservations

Monday 12.19

Call Out, Call In

Hosted by: City Pop Egleston

“It’s that time of year again where many will be making New Year’s resolutions. Whether you’re into making them, or not, we can all benefit from taking some time looking at some of the blockages we have around manifesting our desires and living our highest truth.

What do you need to call out to make room for what you’re calling?Through breath, movement, sweat and intentions, we will call out what’s in the way of us living our deepest truth and call in our deepest desires. What do you need to call out? Let’s explore together!”

When: 7pm

Where: City Pop Egleston | 3195 Washington St, Boston MA

For more information, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/166681857140248/

Tuesday 12.20

Dudley Café Trivia Night

Hosted by: Dudley Café

“Join us for December’s Trivia Night with Pops & Dre at Dudley Cafe on Tuesday, December 20th from 8–10pm! We’ll be serving our full cafe menu with beer, wine, and sake cocktails too!”

When: 8pm

Where: Dudley Café | 15 Warren St, Roxbury MA

For more information, please visit: www.dudleycafe.com

Wednesday 12.21
Body Kintsugi for Women of Color

Hosted by: CityPop Egleston

“Kintsugi (or kintsukuroi): in practice is a Japanese method for repairing broken ceramics with a special lacquer mixed with gold, silver, or platinum. In ideology it highlights the brokenness of objects and deems them even more beautiful because they were broken…Body Kintsugi is a reflective practice that uses movement, music and language to re-sensitize women to their hearts, bodies and minds. In the end we hope to help women towards loving and accepting their bodies as they are, and not as society tells us we should be.

May this be a practice that allows our light to shine a bit brighter as we re-enter our familiar spaces.”

When: 7:30pm

Where: 3195 Washington St, Boston MA

For more info, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/1158102630893461/

Thursday 12.22

LatInc Mobile App/ Website — Launch Paty

Hosted by: Claritza N, Abreu

“Join me in the Launch of LatInc the first Mobile App and Website for Latinos professionals, students and entrepreneurs to connect, find mentors, jobs, events, training and opportunities.”

When: 4:30pm

Where: WeWork South Station | 745 Atlantic Ave, Boston MA

#WhereToBe 12.16–12.22 was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Tashawn Taylor was born and raised in Cambridge MA, listening to various hip hop artists such as Rakim, LL cool J, Kanye West, Run DMC, and Nas. He grew up in an apartment as the middle child of four siblings. While everyone was practicing basketball with his father, Taylor was seeking out other interests from comic book writing to video game design. Around this time, Taylor went through many trials and tribulations that shaped his mindset and emotional stability, from money struggles to being bullied at school and at after school programs. This caused Taylor to develop constant anxiety in crowds, social interactions with peers, and develop a crippling emotional imbalance at a very young age. At the age of 13, Taylor picked up the pen and decided to write his very first 16 bar verse. During his freshman year of high school, he released his debut song “For The Hell of It” under the rap alias TashawnGrey on Soundcloud. During that same year, Taylor released a mix-tape titled “starting from the top” that was only available on CD-ROM. In 2014, Taylor released another project titled “1Life” that consists of 5 songs that includes a remix to the song Pound Cake by Drake and Jay Z. After this release, Taylor attended a program called “The Hip Hop Transformation” through MSYEP (Mayors Summer Youth Employment Program).

The Hip Hop Transformation is a youth program that actively works with students and youth from ages 14–18 to educate them about the history of hip hop, as well as the different forms of hip hop. During the education process, they explore the talents of the participants with deejaying, rapping, singing, poetry, and beyond to prepare them for a showcase event towards the end of the summer. Tashawn, along with The Hip Hop Transformation composed, written, and recorded two albums together: The Transformation (released in 2014) and Say no Mas (released in 2015), which featured artists such as Flash from N.B.S, Latrell James, Fran-P, and many more. Taylor is currently Co-Directing The Hip Hop Transformation and will be assisting the program with music inquiries and outreach events.

Follow Marquis on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and his website.

Who Has Been Your Most Influential Mentor?

I think my greatest mentor has been my dad in terms of music. Even though we rarely see eye to eye in most cases, he has always inspired me to take myself more serious and to express myself in a more intellectually appealing way.

How Did You Get To Where You Are Today?

I’m not even sure how I got here to be completely honest. It wasn’t from working harder or smarter than the next artist I’ll tell you that. It all started with me and The Hip Hop Transformation, and from that program I learned how to appreciate the culture of hip hop a lot more and I just give my best work possible without feeling insecure about anything. Then a couple of years later people just stated to gravitate to me. So if I’m here, it’s all due to my appreciation for everything, from the producers to the engineers to the promoters.

Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?

I see myself still making music, but on a more professional tip. I’m teaching myself how to play piano and I am brushing up on my songwriting more, so I wish to see myself writing songs for big name artists and then composing music for not only the people in my community, but also the people outside of it as well. 4.

What about this city inspires you?

I think the amount of diversity inspires me the most about Boston. There are so many different types of people in this city and I honestly see myself connecting with all of them. Oh, and the amount of creativity that lives in Boston also inspires me. People are able to express their views in so many different ways, whether it’s by making clothes or by making music, the diversity is so amazing to me. 5.

Boston should be… considered the greatest city ever in terms of talent.

Boston could be… considered the greatest city for aspiring artists.

Boston wants to be… a safe haven for creative minds.

Boston needs to… embrace it’s diversity and realize it’s potential.

#MCM: Marquis Tashawn Taylor was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

We all have our personal gripes when it comes to riding the MBTA- Boston has one of the longest public transit commuting times in the country. Focus40 is the 25 year investment plan to help better position the MBTA to equitably serve the Greater-Boston community- please participate and let your voice be heard!

“The Focus40 Street Team has been out at stops and stations around the system, collecting your ideas for the MBTA’s future. The Street Team is made up of MassDOT staff, community members, and partner organizations. We have already engaged with over 1,000 MBTA customers and received more than 1,500 ideas. The MBTA will be using these ideas to generate investment strategies to better serve the Boston region in the future.

If you missed the Street Team in your neighborhood, you can submit your ideas online until December 23. Please help us spread the word — share this link with anyone who may be interested. We want to hear from everyone who has a stake in the success of the MBTA — from everyday riders to those who live and work in the region but do not currently choose to use the system.

One idea that we’ve heard repeatedly is the need for faster and more reliable bus service. We are pleased to announce that the City of Everett is moving forward with a pilot project to help achieve this with a dedicated bus lane on portions of Broadway. This pilot, which was a recommendation of MassDOT’s recent Everett Transit Action Plan, could benefit the 5,000 daily riders in the corridor. Focus40 hopes to leverage municipal partnerships like this to advance bus improvements throughout the region.

If you have any questions or comments, or would like someone from the Focus40 Project Team to present at a community meeting, please contact MassDOT’s Project Manager, Scott Hamwey, at 857–368–9800 or via email at focus40@dot.state.ma.us.

Please forward this email to anyone you think may be interested in this important project. If you have been forwarded this email and wish to sign up for project updates, please sign up here.

We look forward to hearing from you,

The Focus40 Project Team”

Focus40 Wants To Hear From You! was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Sam Casseus is a spoken word poet and curator of poetry workshops and classes. She uses her abilities to provide healing spaces that address self-doubt and trauma by facilitating workshops that help others express themselves through creative processes such as art therapy, poetry, and creative discussion. It is her purpose and goal in life to impact the world by being an available resource for others to reach their highest potential and to feel good about their role in their community.

Follow Sam on Facebook & Instagram. She is also the author of the poetry book, Intrepid, now available on Amazon Kindle & in paperback.

Who has been your most influential mentor?

I am very inspired by the women in my life so it is a little hard for me to choose one. There have been many instances where I have been down and out and needed guidance to redirect my steps. The women who surround me and the women that I have been able to encounter have been very influential in shaping the woman that I am today. I especially give many thanks to the women who changed my life when I was in grade school, Ms. Edwards, who played a major role — was my tutor, given to me through the special education program that I was placed due to my dyslexia.

She not only taught me how to read, write, and catch up with my peers learning level but she also taught me my history, showed me the importance of using and maintaining my native language, Haitian Creole, and made it a point to never give up on myself.

She not only taught me how to read, write, and catch up with my peers learning level but she also taught me my history, showed me the importance of using and maintaining my native language, Haitian Creole, and made it a point to never give up on myself. I later got discharged from the special education program because I began surpassing my peers who did not need the extra help and attention that I was given in order to learn. After I got discharged, I could not stop reading and writing — it became my love and passion. I ran through at least 4 books each week. This my changed my entire life and I am still thankful for Ms. Edwards to this very day, I praise her the love and attention that she gave to me while boosting me up in academia.

How did you get where you are today?

I have become a community organizer and creator of safe spaces thanks to the example that The City School gave me. I am always referring to the communication styles that were encouraged as well as how we were positioned in small groups to engage in important dialogue. I have realized that I am needed, that I matter, and that I have value.

Everything I do matters and that must translate in the work that I do to serve others in the most effective way that I’ve learned how, thanks to the leaders before me…

Everything I do matters and that must translate in the work that I do to serve others in the most effective way that I’ve learned how, thanks to the leaders before me. I have realized that I am needed, that I matter, and that I have value.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself continuing to do the work that I have started. I want to own a space that will serve the purpose of community programing. It is important to hold safe spaces in order to organize and host workshops and events that will aid in the betterment of everyone around us. I have continued my commitment through the community organizing work that I’ve done in terms of keeping artists accountable and as well as serving the community when it comes to wellness and healing. I know that everything I do is bigger than myself and I hope that this will resonate and create a domino effect for the younger generation.

What about this city inspires you?

The culture, diversity, and talent in Boston really inspires me. I love seeing how willing people are to collaborate and create beautiful things. We all are extremely powerful people. We are the next leaders of tomorrow and it is important to pick up our responsibilities and drop off fear in order to change the world and conditions in which we are living in.

Boston should be… everything that we want it to be: Innovative, creative, and flooded with opportunities to do what we love and feel good about doing it for a living.

Boston could be… a capital for social, cultural, and political change.

Boston wants to be… loved and recognized.

Boston needs… for the community to believe in themselves and be inspired by our own potential and greatness to produce and create whatever our dreams guide us to manifest.

#WCW: Sam Casseus was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

In 2013, Epicenter Community started one of our signature series called The Urban Male. The intent was to center a safe space around men of color, to provide a night where they can come together, network and support eachother in a myriad of ways. Previous topics have covered things from Entrepreneurship to Marketing. Last night, we explored a couple of topics centering around #Millennials & #Mentoring. How are Millennials changing the cultural landscape? What is the importance of mentoring and passing down knowledge in our communities?

How are Millennials changing the cultural landscape? What is the importance of mentoring and passing down knowledge in our communities?

Our amazing panel consisted of Jourdan Christopher of Jourdan Christopher Stories, Khalil Vidark & Schneider Predestin of Debonair Gentlemen & Jeremy Colon of JC Enterprises/ Blessed You Clothing. All of these young men are millennial entrepreneurs giving back to the community in a myriad of ways.

Schneider Predestin kicked off the event with an amazing Spoken Word piece about racial inequality and anti-blackness.

After his performance, we launched into introducing our panel. Epicenter Community President Malia Lazu opened the discussion with a question about mentoring- how important is it to both #mentor and to be #mentored? How has it changed their lives?

Jeremy, both a personal trainer and life coach, talked about how important it is to take action when pursuing passions and dreams, even without a #mentor. Both Schneider and Khalil talked about their backgrounds and how they’ve been impacted and how they’ve impacted others. Schneider’s decision to change his major from Pre-Med to study Fashion & Art wasn’t seen as “acceptable” by some of the people in his life- but he took the leap anyway and was able to use his experiences to encourage another young student to take the same leap of faith. Khalil moved us all with telling us how his daughter is both his #mentee & his #mentor in life.

Then we moved into the other topic of the night: Millennials and the shift in culture. Malia reminded us of some of the ubiquitous sentiments and steoreotypes about Millennials, going from Millennials being lazy & entitled to Millennials being too social media and technology obsessed.

All of the panel members touched on the fact that the support from older generations when it comes to creative expression and drive, is lacking in our communities. Jourdan Christopher drew upon his childhood growing up in Memphis and the lack of support from adults to go after a career in writing & photography. “There’s a disconnect,” he said. “I was never passed a baton- I had it all along and never realized it…”

“There’s a disconnect,” he said. “I was never passed a baton- I had it all along and never realized it…”

Afterwards, the the floor was open for a Q&A session. We were so happy to have Chris Jones from Big Brother, Big Sister come up and speak on how to get involved in mentoring in our communities and how much it can change lives and paths.

The night ended with lots of dope networking and building and wings & pizza a la Dudley Dough :) Shoutout to Luther for providing the space, set up and food!

Our next Urban Male is coming up soon in March- stay tuned for updates!

If You Missed Our Urban Male… was originally published in Transformative Culture Project on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.