ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Youth On Purpose is a high-impact, four-day youth program designed to ignite self-discovery, purpose, and community-minded leadership in young people.
Led by dynamic motivational artist Chico Johnson, the program uses interactive performance, storytelling, and creative expression to inspire students to explore who they are, what they’ve been through, and how they can use it all to fuel a life of purpose and contribution.
Through the art of music, film, motivational speaking, and songwriting workshops, we assist students in finding their authentic and unique identity, reducing isolation and anxiety, improving self-worth and sense of belonging, and exploring solutions to better the world around them.
STUDENTS DEVELOP LIFE SKILLS TO LEAD A PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE
CheekyMac’s youth programs have been designed by a team of teachers, youth mentors and artists as a proactive tool to empower disengaged and disadvantaged youth to discover a purpose driven life and enhance community capacity building.
FACILITATOR: CHICO JOHNSON
Motivational Artist, Singer Songwriter, and Youth Mentor.
DAY 1 IGNITE: PURPOSE STARTS WITH YOU
The program kicks off with an energetic live performance and a powerful motivational talk from Chico Johnson. Students complete a pre-program survey to reflect on their current understanding of purpose and community impact. This day sets the tone, awakening curiosity and connection.
DAY 2 DISCOVER: WHERE PASSION MEETS PAIN. WE FIND PURPOSE
Students are introduced to Chico’s signature model: Where Passion Meets Pain, We Find Purpose. Through reflective workshops, they begin identifying their unique stories and how their experiences can fuel positive change, both personally and collectively in their communities.
DAY 3 EXPRESS: VOICE YOUR STORY
Through engaging workshops, students are taught to harness their purpose into creative expression. Options include songwriting, poetry, or creative writing, allowing each student to find their voice in a unique way. They craft powerful, personal pieces that reflect their learning so far.
DAY 4 IMPACT: FROM PURPOSE TO IMPACT
The final day focuses on future planning and collaboration. Students take part in a goal-setting workshop, a post-program survey, and a team-building exercise to brainstorm ideas for collective impact. They leave with clarity around their personal purpose and a shared vision for contributing to school, family, and community life, enhancing community capacity building.
