THE WORLD AS WE SEE IT | A Busboys and Poets Books Presentation
Date and Time
Nov 16, 2023 6:00 pm
Location
Takoma
235 Carroll St NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20012
Nov 16, 2023 6:00 pm
Takoma
This book is the culminating project for the #4TheCulture Digital Photography Program. During this 5-week program, students participated in various field experiences (including visits to local museums and photography studios). Dee Dwyer, (Howard University professor and published photographer), served as the resident photographer and taught the students to embrace the element of leadership, behind the lens. As a result, the students tapped into their creative energies and produced a solid work of art. The World As We See It provides society with a rare opportunity to view the world, from the perspective of young people.
The #4TheCultureCrew, Dr. NiLa Austin and Sabrina Allen are joining us on the Busboys stage to share their photographic production. Copies of the book will be available for purchase during and after the event, and the photographers will be signing following the program.
This event is free and open to all. Our program begins at 6:00 pm, and will be followed by an audience Q&A. Copies of THE WORLD AS WE SEE IT will be available for purchase before and after the event. Please note that this event is IN PERSON and will NOT be livestreamed.
We ask that guests RSVP in order to receive direct updates about the event from Busboys and Poets Books
The #4TheCultureCrew is a group of creative middle and high school students. Le'Janique Tillery- 8th grade, Braelyn Tillery-7th grade, Lauren Thomas-6th grade, Malik Tate-8th grade, Ky'Leah Long-6th grade, Melany Green - 8th grade, Kollyn Foster-6th grade, Soleil Fanga-9th grade and Genesis Amador-9th grade, are the young geniuses responsible for this beautiful book of visuals. Each year, a new cohort of students is introduced to the #4TheCulture curriculum and although they receive instruction, they co-create the content and climate of their learning. Outside of being amazing photographers and published authors, the members of the #4TheCultureCrew participate in tons of other extra-curricular activities including mentorship, dance, cheerleading, cosmetology, and STEM programs. The existence of these young authors is proof that the next generation will carry the torch of creativity to new heights. Check out the other #4TheCultureCrew publications including Garden of Hope and Literary Mixtape, both available via Amazon.
Sabrina Allen is a DMV native, educator and cheer coach. She has always been passionate about enhancing the social emotional well-being of students. As an educator of 7 years, Sabrina utilizes a whole child approach and truly understands the importance of creating an environment where students not only learn but thrive. Sabrina's academic identity focuses on her ability to merge tough love with her nurturing nature. Throughout her career, Sabrina has built solid relationships with students, school leaders, and community leaders and continues to lead with love and empathy. Sabrina served as one of the lead instructors of the Digital Photography program and helped the students develop core professionalism skills and an authentic appreciation for a new art form.
Dr. NiLa Austin is an international psychologist, researcher, and educator, who partners with students and school leaders to enhance their institutional practices. After spending more than a decade working in the education sector, Dr. Austin has served in a variety of roles including Director of Student Experience, Dean of Culture, guidance counselor, literacy instructor, academic coach, and curriculum specialist. Dr. Austin not only understands but teaches about the importance of a holistic educational approach. She believes that both students and educators are empowered when they have been allotted the opportunity to co-create both the content and climate of their learning environment. As a published researcher and practitioner, one of the key elements that she intentionally focuses on is cultivating student-centered healing techniques needed to combat trauma and oppression.
During her doctoral studies, Dr. Austin created the #4TheCulture curriculum, which is currently being implemented in both public and charter schools in major cities across the nation including Washington, D.C., New York City, Philadelphia, and Chicago. The #4TheCulture curriculum also includes a variety of programs that are created based on feedback from student surveys and focus groups. The #4TheCulture program offerings include digital photography, cosmetology, public speaking, an internal and external mentorship program, an authorship program and more.
Many of the #4TheCulture programs are sponsored and implemented by the Giveland Foundation, where Dr. Austin currently serves as the president.
In addition to designing research-based programs for students, Dr. Austin is a wellness practitioner and the founder of SoulGa Yoga, which means yoga for the soul. She currently offers yoga and mindfulness classes for all age groups. Additionally, Dr. Austin holds a B.A. in Psychology, an M.A. in Applied Developmental Psychology, and a Ph.D. in International Psychology.
