COAL Newsletter, November 2024
What an incredible journey it’s been with you this year! Together, we’ve engaged in transformative activities that have not only enriched our lives but also made a lasting impact on our community.
We’re excited to announce the grand finale of the Empowering Citizen Aid Actors training series this December, featuring two powerful sessions led by Mrs. Yopnan Dariem and Mr. Samuel Famolu. Since September, your dedication to driving change in the nonprofit sector has been nothing short of inspiring.
Mark your calendars for December 5th and 6th as we delve into two critical topics shaping the future of nonprofits: “Tech on a Shoestring” and “Safeguarding and Psychological Well-being”. These sessions promise to equip you with practical insights to strengthen your impact in the nonprofit space. Let’s close this series with the same energy and passion we started with!
In November, we proudly hosted our inaugural Poetry Writing Workshop, bringing together 15 talented poets from across northern Nigeria. Over three intensive days, these poets refined their craft, received valuable feedback, and forged connections in a supportive, creative environment. This December, we’re thrilled to present their debut Open Mic Night—a celebration of their growth and resilience.
Our Open Mics are more than just performances they’re platforms for learning, networking, and inspiration. We’re committed to offering a space where poets and creatives can truly shine, connect with like-minded individuals, and leave feeling empowered.
Be part of this exciting December lineup! Register now and join us as we wrap up the year on a high note.
Three Days of Impact: The Art of Writing and Performance Poetry Workshop
For over six years, COAL has been a steadfast pillar in nurturing young creatives in Plateau State through open mic events, providing them with a platform to hone their poetry writing and performance skills. Despite these consistent efforts, progress has been gradual, with only a few poets advancing to national slam competitions.
In June, we conducted a rapid needs assessment to gauge the interest of creatives in workshops, masterclasses, and virtual open mics. The results were clear—93% expressed a strong preference for workshops and masterclasses. Motivated by this feedback, COAL decided it was time to transform this interest into action by hosting a dedicated workshop to accelerate growth in the local literary scene.
This November, COAL launched the first edition of The Art of Writing and Performance Poetry Workshop, a three-day intensive event in collaboration with renowned Jos poets—Younglan, Envoi Vates, and Rudolph the Red Cap Poet. Fifteen emerging poets participated, eager to break through stagnation and pursue creative excellence. The impact was immediate and profound.
I honestly learned a lot and had fun while learning. I hope to improve in every aspect so I can become a better poet and writer.
Our objective was straightforward: to enhance the writing and performance skills of emerging poets in Jos, fostering both personal and professional growth through structured learning experiences. This workshop marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to equipping local poets with the tools needed to compete on the global stage.
Thank you profoundly, COAL! I pray you reap the rewards of this massive investment.
While three days may not be enough to transform lives completely, we believe in the power of consistency. The workshop’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of Dr. Doug Kazé, who embraced our vision and extended it by inviting his college students to participate.
Now, I know there is more than just putting pen to paper. Poetry is a process that weaves itself into the very fabric of our being.
We were inspired by the enthusiasm and dedication of the participants, whose passion for learning remained undiminished throughout the workshop. This is just the beginning, and with continued support, we aim to build a thriving literary community in Jos capable of standing tall on the global stage.