Lisa Duffy is a program assistant for the PbS Learning Institute. She holds a B.A. in Women’s Studies and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing from the University of Massachusetts Boston. She has extensive experience in writing, editing, and content creation for private, healthcare, and non-profit organizations. A published novelist with three book club favorites from Simon & Schuster, Lisa’s writing can be found in numerous literary journals, print, and online publications.
Creative and Empowering Art and Lyrics from Downeast Maine
This 2022 PbS Kids Got Talent Contest Finalist Spotlight is on Long Creek Youth Development Center, where two talented artists submitted impressive performances, wowing the Selection Committee.
Singing a song titled “I am the Future,” the artist opened the performance with the words “Somali Barbie” inscribed against a backdrop framed with the signature stars and colors from the flag of Somalia.
“You askin’ about my future?” the artist raps. “Well, I am the future.” The Selection Committee agreed unanimously. “You are the future!” one member gushed. “Your confidence is GREAT and will take you many places in the future!”
Equally as strong in lyrics and content was a vocal original titled, “Take My Advice,” a performance infused with stunning original artwork from the talented singer/songwriter/visual artist. The lyrics encourage the listener to be independent in a message that one committee member called, “great for all women!”
“Love yourself more than anyone,” sings the artist from her seat at the piano, the next frame showcasing her artistic abilities while she touches up a painted mural on the wall.
Congratulations to these talented artists. We thank them for sharing their art with us.
Listen to “I am the Future” and “Take My Advice.”
The annual PbS Kids Got Talent Contest invites all young people in PbS facilities and programs across the country to submit their talents for a chance to show off their skills. This year, Performance-based Standards (PbS) received 55 entries from 63 young people in 8 states and 22 different facilities. After careful consideration, 12 finalist performances were selected and shared with the Kids Got Talent Selection Committee.
Each of the 12 performances will be featured in the 2022 PbS Kids Got Talent Contest Finalist Spotlight blog over the coming weeks as our committee determines a solo winner and a group winner. The winners will be selected based on creativity, stage presence and talent. The winning soloist will perform live at the PbS Awards Night in August.
About the author
Lisa Duffy
PbS has been a partner in assisting this facility to become a dynamic work environment that is not satisfied with maintaining the status quo.