There’s something really cool about seeing people come together to make something. Not just art, but memories. That’s what we wanted this day to be. Not just another activity or event, but a moment that actually meant something to everyone there.
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| months of planning :) |
We started planning by picking a theme that would guide the whole day. Unity. It was simple, but it said everything. We also designed our own JY t-shirt which made it feel even more like something we were building together.
When everyone arrived, we kicked things off with a fun dare game. Each of us picked a random slip from a bag and had to do whatever it said. Things like dance, act something out, or do something silly. It was awkward at first but then it just became funny and people started opening up.
Then we had to sort ourselves out by age and after that by birth month inside each age group. That’s how our teams were made. It was a fun way to mix everyone up and get to know new people.
Once we got into our teams, we started the art project. The tables were full of recycled stuff like bottle caps, string, cardboard, wrappers, basically things most people would throw away. But when we started working together, they slowly turned into something more. Each group had their own ideas. Some started planning, others just jumped in and started building. Everyone was sharing, helping, listening. No one was left out.
After the projects were done, we took turns presenting our art. Each group explained what they made, what it meant, and how they worked together. Everyone had something to say and everyone was respected.
To warm up the environment after that, we played Golden Hour on the keyboard and sang together. It was calm and honestly it felt kind of peaceful. Then we performed a remix of the APT song that we called Artelum. We changed the lyrics and added a dance. Every move had meaning. We were not trying to impress anyone, just to show what unity looks like when you feel it.
Then came the best part. Lunch.
We sat in circles with juice boxes and plates of chicken, laughing and talking like we had known each other forever. On the side, some of the parents were sitting together chatting and smiling while watching everything. It felt like the whole room was just connected like we were one big group even if we were all different.
Looking back, the day was not perfect on paper but that did not matter. What made it special was how we worked together, how we treated each other, and how we all made space for one another.
This was not just an art party.
It felt like something bigger.
It showed us that unity does not need big speeches.
Just some cardboard, creativity, and people who care.
And when we create together something real happens.
From us
The JY Group Bangsar
The JY Group Bangsar
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| Cara |
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| Tara |
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| Ray |
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I think that the core message of our event yesterday can be summed up in one word – Artelium – which is the name of the JY Group's own rendition of APT.
Artelium simply means a place filled with art, which was exactly what the children from both the refugee children foundation and the JY Group did; they turned the schooling center into a lively place full of art, with joy and creativity bursting at the seams. I heard laughs and chatter every second, I've learned new names, met new, cheerful, faces. (Like Nunuu and Cinpit)
The art made from all the groups were thematically linked; with all the canvas pieces (and one group even having the extraordinary idea of making slime) pointing towards the central theme of unity and protecting and appreciating our environment.
In summation, I just had fun! It's important that we humanize refugee children and try our best to contribute to equitable education for all.
~ Eu Kenn
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I was exited to see how they looked like and how they get their creative juices flowing and I was really exited to see them dance to our song and have fun
On our art project but did a lot of talking that’s why we named ourselves the yappers, and I was also really happy seeing everyone was happy when we came
cassy
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Its hard to put into words how this visit felt. All I can really say is, i was very grateful to have spent time with them.
Naturally, i was a bit nervous at first, meeting new people and all—but after talking, and sharing and having fun together, i can say that I’ve made genuine connections and new friendships with the cutest bunch of kids. (Zuun Zuun, Micheal, Sanhoih)
I learned so much from them, from their hobbies, their favorite colors, singers, food and even their family and their lifestyle.
I was filled with so much happiness when i saw their little smiles when they were painting and dancing, especially when they ate their fried chicken of course.
I really hope that we can go back and visit my new friends once more in the near future and have fun with them again.
- claire :)
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| Caeley |
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This experience has helped me realise the art of joy and the simplicity behind it. As I reflect, I think of the painting and I think of how lively the environment was. I think of the hilarious, random conversations my group and I shared. I think of how remarkable the interaction was; how we were able to go from nervous strangers to chatterbox friends, holding hands, laughing and sharing food. This experience was truly one of a kind and unforgettable. It has made me realise how even the small things can bring so much joy and how despite any age gaps or background differences, friends can be made and laughter can be shared.
By Lauren
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Today was an unforgettable experience that taught me to be more grateful for everything I have in life.
We began the day by visiting the refugee centre and playing some icebreaker games with the children. I especially enjoyed this activity, as it gave me insight into their personalities - some children were shy, while others were more outgoing and confident.
One of the most memorable parts of the day was the canvas art session. Working closely with my teammates, I learned to be more adaptable. When I noticed the children were losing interest in a particular part of the activity, I quickly came up with a new idea that re-engaged them. I also learned to be more open-minded. When the children wanted to add their own ideas, even though they didn’t align with my original vision, I encouraged them to express themselves. In the end, their contributions made the artwork more vibrant and meaningful.
What touched me most was a moment of quiet selflessness. One of my teammates, despite saying earlier that she was extremely hungry, chose to save her fried chicken for her sister at home. Her kindness and thoughtfulness deeply inspired me.
I left the centre feeling grateful, moved, and full of admiration for the children and my team. I already miss everyone and truly hope I can return next time.
by Alyssa
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| Olivia --oo-- This Project was something New and fun for me. At the start I was a little bit worried as I was scared that the students would not like me but in the end it all worked out and we all made New Friends. Now I hope to see them again one day and talk about that moment and cherish that moment for ever. By Shrriman Gunalan |
