Musicians Making a Difference
Working to break intergenerational cycles of disadvantage in the lives of young people experiencing issues such as homelessness, social isolation and trauma.
Through music, dance and mentoring, MMAD run programs that harness cutting edge creative therapy to help young people reach their full potential.
2017 Pitch
Funds raised: $35,414
MMAD pitched at TFN Live in Sydney, where the generous TFN network pledged $35,414 towards their 'Sound Foundations' program - a ten-week course that teaches young people the foundations of songwriting, recording and performing, while learning how to build a sound foundation in life for a potential future in the arts.
The Impact...
Will Small, MMAD's Creative Facilitator, pitched at TFN Sydney and spoke about the at-risk young people that attend MMAD’s various creative therapy programs, their stories and their journeys. He also shared how MMAD offers them a place of belonging in a community of people with shared experiences, mentoring opportunities and, importantly, a creative outlet. This is what makes MMAD so unique.
Thanks to the funding raised on the night, MMAD has been able to run their Sound Foundation program for an entire year, providing ten weeks of creative workshops and mentoring to these young people. This program ran four times throughout the year supporting 40 young people in the Central Coast region. These young artists have gone on to create their own music, perform at live events and are looking to start a podcast as well - scheduled to be released in Spring 2018.
David's Story
David* is a young person with autism, who was disengaged at school and home and was referred to MMAD's Sound Foundations program, which was generously funded by the TFN community.
Through his time at Sound Foundations, David felt an amazing sense of belonging and inclusion and was able to express himself through writing song lyrics and learning about music production. In his own words on the program he says: "This is the first time in my life where I feel like I belong and I'm free to be myself."
David has now signed up for two further MMAD programs and has had 100% attendance at these. His Mum and teachers have reported a significant difference in David's confidence and positivity in all aspects of his life, as a direct result from the sense of community and empowerment he has found through MMAD's Sound Foundations program.
*David's name has been changed to protect his identity.
Read their Impact Report
Learn more about Musicians Making A Difference.
Supporting Sustainable Development Goals:
