Meet & Greet - YMF2024 - Recap

**Creating Connection and Confidence: A Workshop at the Big House in Yalis**

The Movable Feast workshop session held at the Big House provided a culturally enriched, familiar setting for local artists and community to engage with the artists of the 2 Rivers Remix Movable Feast Island Tour 2024. The space fostered a sense of comfort and belonging, allowing participants to meet and mingle with the touring artists in a meaningful way.

The session began with a round of introductions, where each person briefly shared their background and how they became involved in their respective artistic fields. Meeka Morgan, co-founder and Artistic Director of the 2 Rivers Remix Festival Society and a member of The Melawmen Collective, led the group on a journey through her own family and community connections. She shared how her personal experiences, including her pursuit of a Master’s Degree in Sociology focused on the impacts of the Indian Residential School System on families like her own, inspired the formation of her collaborative art and music projects. This work laid the foundation for what would eventually become 2 Rivers Remix.

Hip-hop artist and motivational speaker Higher Knowledge (HK) followed with an exploration of his artistic journey, describing how his experiences in foster care fueled his passion for his craft and his drive to support others with similar life stories. Through his art, HK illustrated the healing power of creative expression.

 Mexika dancers Ana and Leo, who have been touring with 2 Rivers Remix, shared how their art forms—rooted in both traditional and contemporary practices—continue to evolve and inspire others. They spoke of the profound sense of identity their work fosters, not only for themselves but for their audiences. 

Local participants also had the opportunity to share their stories, with some coming from formal music education backgrounds and others self-taught. Regardless of their path, their passion for their art was undeniable. The chance to connect with established artists in such a supportive environment left them feeling truly "seen." Many were even invited to join the artistic lineup for the following day’s event, bolstering their confidence as they prepared for their performances. 

For these local artists, the workshop was more than just an opportunity to meet potential mentors—it was a space where they felt validated and uplifted. Being able to experience this in an environment that was their own, where they felt comfortable, added tremendous value. Family members who had supported them throughout their journeys also attended, reflecting on their role in nurturing the artists' paths. The session proved to be enriching for everyone involved, creating not just connections between artists, but also a deeper sense of community.