Art & Storytelling Workshop

Founding Team member Marsha Hopkins, and Jackie Broxton, CEO and President of he Biddy Mason Charitable Foundation (BMCF), led a heartfelt workshop for former foster youth and adults. 

BMCF is a beacon of hope, creating a sense of belonging and permanence for those often missing it. Jackie has lovingly set up a house where they can celebrate milestones like Thanksgiving, connect with friends, access resources like computers, and find a supportive community. For many, it’s the only place they feel truly at home. BMCF also provides scholarships, helping foster youth and adults pursue brighter futures.

We were thrilled to have Karani Marcia Leslie Johnson join us. A trailblazer as CBS’s first Black female videographer, Karani is also a celebrated writer and playwright whose work continues to inspire. Her storytelling wisdom and warmth guided participants as they explored their own creative voices. She is the author of the award winning play, “The Trial of One Short-Sighted Black Woman vs. Mammy Louise and Safreeta Mae.” It was written in 1994 and is still in production. 

The first workshop began with introductions, where everyone shared a bit about who they are and where they’ve been and who they are today. Together, we talked about the power of sharing stories through the Origin Stories Project and how these stories and Art Boxes could educate and inspire others. Karani and Marsha read their own stories, showing how powerful even simple narratives can be. By the third session, the stories and boxes were coming together beautifully. By the end of the session, everyone felt encouraged to bring their own stories to life.

In the following sessions, the focus shifted to creating Art Boxes and refining their stories. One participant even chose to create two! By the third session, the stories and boxes were coming together beautifully. The workshop became a space of trust, creativity, and connection, where everyone felt free to share and grow.