Aspire to Inspire gives artist from the community of Jane and Finch Toronto inspiration

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“My goal was to create a platform where I could provide the same opportunities for local artists from my neighbourhood who struggled to get gigs as well.” Nathan Baya

When Nathan Baya called me up and said to me, “Simone, I want you to be part of this project that I am doing in the month of February,” “Yes,” was out of my mouth before he could finish asking.

Nathan Baya is one of the most inspirational young men I have ever met. For many African men, it is hard to process and talk about their emotional experiences. This can further a sense of isolation, anger, and resentment, and can create an emotional volatility that can sometimes manifest in negative ways, especially when it comes to relationships. Telling those around you that you’re living with a mental health condition can be empowering, and Nathan has proven that with his well-placed lyrics, and catch hooks.

Nathan was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and grew up in the infamous Jane and Finch area. His parents immigrated to Canada from the Congo, and of all the places his parents could have ended up, Nathan has always been happy that they chose Toronto.

I have watched Nathan’s rise proudly. He has found a way to use his artistic expression to discuss difficult topics surrounding mental health, and relationships. He has showcased his art form (Hip-Hop) all across Canada, but he always finds a way to give back to his community.

His latest project Jane Street Speaks was started because of the struggles he had getting booked as a local artist. He took matters into his own hands and began to put on his own events to showcase his talent. His events allowed other artists to express themselves through art and using this art form to heal from their traumas. Jane Street Speaks has been a raving success, and has been well received in the community. Along with providing artists with a platform to express themselves, the team also involves themselves in food and clothing drives for the homeless, workshops for youth and other community events.

For Nathan, this work is necessary. He believes that if people are not given the opportunity to express themselves, and heal from childhood traumas, they suffer in silence. It is one of the reasons that he launched “Aspire to Inspire,” a series that uses art therapy, and gives artists from the community of Jane and Finch Toronto inspiration to transcend their own capabilities.

Each episode highlights three local artists and a mental health guest speaker, with the goal of providing viewers with quality entertainment and a therapeutic conversation. Last week Tuesday, I was invited to speak on mental health, and it was such a pleasure to be around such young, creative minds. I was moved by their thirst for knowledge, and I encouraged viewers to find ways to practice self-care, as well as find social supports to help during difficult times.

Aspire to Inspire will be running for the month of February, and can be found on Instagram @janestreetspeaks. It runs from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm LIVE, and engaged viewers can possibly win a $50.00 gift card to support a local business in Jane and Finch Mall. Viewers also have the opportunity to win two hours of FREE studio time with @concept.productions.416 and a two-hour workshop with artist development coach @dynesti.

Nathan, I want to thank you for all that you do for your community. Your work is already leaving you with a lasting legacy, and to think; you have only just begun.