When Creativity Unlocks Confidence: A Magic Moment from our Learn Create Explore Program

Sometimes, the most profound changes happen in the span of a single workshop. This month we've been delivering our intensive support Learn Create Explore program to schools in Toronto. At Joseph Brant our team had the privilege of witnessing a transformation that left us all in awe.

Participants at Joseph Brant were given two days of arts-based exploration. Day one featured “Clay Play,” where students shaped lumps of clay into animal sculptures—an open invitation to let their imaginations run wild. Day two brought an improvisation workshop led by a guest artist, offering a fun, interactive way for students to practice communication and collaboration.

Students at Joseph Brant engage in creative painting, exploring vibrant colours and patterns during an art class.

What made these sessions truly magical was the journey of one particular student. She usually sits silently in class, rarely engaging with peers or the lesson at hand. Some days, she even becomes overwhelmed and cries. But when given a lump of clay and the freedom to create, she came to life. She spent extra time perfecting her bunny sculpture, politely asking for more materials, and volunteering to help clean up once she was done. The next day, she was the first to raise her hand during the improv workshop, showing off her animal impressions and encouraging her classmates to join in. Her teacher was astonished, sharing that this level of participation had never been seen before in this student.

Moments like these remind us why we’re committed to using creative approaches in education. By tapping into the arts, we give students who are often overlooked—or who overlook themselves—an entirely new way to connect. They find their voices, gain confidence in their unique abilities, and learn to advocate for themselves and others.

We believe every child deserves the chance to experience these profound “magic moments.” With continued support from our donors, partners, and community, we can keep opening doors to discovery and self-expression for students of all abilities. And who knows? The next workshop might spark the light in another quietly waiting student—someone just moments away from stepping into the spotlight.

Our Learn Create Explore Intensive Support Stream is funded by Telus Friendly Future Foundation.