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Poetry – Page 4 – patriciafostermckenley.com
patriciafostermckenley.com

Professional Poet, Life Coach, Educator, Artist – Runs Workshops, Gives Reiki & Wellbeing Training

Category: Poetry (Page 4 of 4)

September 5, 2013 /

“Man is the only creature that refuses to be what he is.” ~ Albert Camus

“You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking.” ~ Marianne Williamson

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What Is Your Life Purpose?

How many of us have moved through life, not realising we have a unique gift or talent? How often does fear play a part in preventing us from unleashing our gifts and talents to the world? How many of us are actually utilising this gift to make a difference to another person’s life?

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What would you say is your God given, divine purpose in life? What do you feel destined or driven to do? Those of us who have identified a gift, sometimes shy away from the reality of how big an impact they can make on the world and the possibility of shouldering the responsibility of using this gift to make a difference. Some of us may need help or guidance identifying what this special gift is.

Making a difference doesn’t have to mean standing at a pulpit like Martin Luther King, or being an iconic national leader, such as Nelson Mandela. Making a difference can simply mean inspiring just ONE person to positively change their lives, or empowering and inspiring young people through teaching or mentoring.

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How will you…yes, YOU… choose to unleash your unique, God given gift the World is waiting to receive?

© Patricia Foster

Patricia Foster is an Award-Winning, Internationally Published Poet, a qualified Holistic Life Coach, Performer, Visual and Multimedia Artist (BA Hons), Certified Tutor/Trainer & Facilitator, Dynamic Educator and Creative Consultant. She is also a Certified Reiki Healer, Vegan and lover of Raw Food.


For further info, email prfoster@hotmail.com
or visit http://about.me/patriciafoster

Patricia Foster – Poet, Educator and Inspirational Workshops

August 24, 2013 /

“I never teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn.”
~ Albert Einstein

Photo: Giorgis Media

Photo: Giorgis Media

Photo: Celile Stille

Photo: Celile Stille

Teaching, Training and Coaching – the connection from my soul to the Universe. My gift to all. I love what I do and enjoy doing what I love! This quote by Albert Einstein probably explains why I love to create the best learning environment for my learners, of all ages and abilities!

 
My approach to education is unique, empathic, holistic, creative and empowering. My aim is to empower individuals of all ages and sections of the community, to be the best person they can be. To guide them to uncover their own inner tools and gifts to succeed in life. To help improve their lives and wellbeing through poetry, writing, creativity, multi media, coaching, consultancy and holistic health & nutrition advice.
 

I am available for poetry workshops, as well as creative, multi media, personal development and wellbeing workshops, in any establishment – the more unusual, the better! I can also provide consultancy or guide you through the steps to set up your community multi media project.

If you require an internationally recognised professional poet for:

  • Primary or Secondary Schools
  • PSHE Classes
  • Assemblies
  • Black History Month
  • National Poetry Day
  • World Book Day
  • International Women’s Day
  • Residencies
  • Interactive or Traditional Storytelling
  • Corporate Training Days
  • Team Building Events
  • Workshops with Senior Citizens
  • Workshops in Youth and Community Groups
  • Workshops on Bullying
  • Workshops in Pupil Referal Units (PRUs)
  • Workshops in Libraries
  • Workshops in Prisons

contact me and I’ll guarantee a stimulating, positive and engaging session.

Check out the rest of my site to find out what other training and education services I can provide.

Lips – New Poetry Film Release by Award-Winning Poet & Educator Patricia Foster McKenley. A Poet’s View on Teenage Bullying!

August 9, 2013 /

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Photo ©️Mellow 9 Productions


I am really pleased to share with you that the film version of my poem ‘Lips’, which tackles the theme of teenage bullying, has been released. It is uncanny how it has been released at a time when bullying and in particular cyber bullying, has been in the news of late; not just here in the UK but world wide.

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Photo ©️Mellow 9 Productions


It has been quite emotional for me to see my poem brought to life on film, by the amazingly talented Mellow 9 Productions http://www.mellow9productions.co.uk/. The journey from poem idea – first developed in a Malika’s Poetry Kitchen Friday session – to film has been eleven years. The topic of bullying and identity being relevant then as it is now.

This film also couldn’t have been brought to life in such a magnificent way, without the superb young female actors – who were so serendipitously cast – provided by The Girls Friendly Society of England and Wales (GFS Platform Islington Project). https://girlsfriendlysociety.org.uk/group-finder/islington/ Located in the London borough of Islington, this wonderful project delivers a wide range of exciting activities, workshops and events for young women aged 11 to 19, to widen their horizons, encourage debates and boost confidence and aspirations. Learn more about The Girls Friendly Society of England and Wales (GFS) and the wonderful they do nationwide, by visiting https://girlsfriendlysociety.org.uk

It was an absolute pleasure to work with such a brilliant cast and crew.

I currently use my film ‘Lips’ within self esteem, personal development and anti-bullying Workshops and so far have used in Workshops in Jamaica, The Netherlands and universities, youth centres and community organisations in the UK. 

Click on the link below to view the film

http://youtu.be/DuzFlvl25qg

Lips © Text Copyright Patricia Foster McKenley 2002


To book a Workshop, contact Patricia Foster McKenley on info@YouAreYOU.co or call +447956476547


Upcoming Release of New Poetry Video ‘Lips’ – Written and Performed by Patricia Foster

July 27, 2013 /
Myself on the film shoot! Photo: Flora van den Berg, Mellow 9 Productions

Myself on the film shoot!
Photo: Flora van den Berg, Mellow 9 Productions

I’m really excited, as the release of the film version of my poem ‘Lips’ takes place this month, August 2013. The poem and film explores the impact of bullying between young females and how this can raise issues of identity and self esteem.

Myself and one of the superb cast!

Myself with one of the superb cast!

I was honoured to have my words brought to life by the incredibly talented, award winning Mellow 9 Productions. The whole experience, including the shoot, working with the crew and witnessing their spot on and intuitive casting was amazing.

I will post a link and further info about the video shortly. In the meantime, here are a few more behind-the-scenes photos from the film shoot. Photos by Flora van den Berg

Photo: Flora van den Berg

Photo: Flora van den Berg

Photo: Flora van den Berg. Scene with the fantastic young cast.

Photo: Flora van den Berg.
Scene with the fantastic young cast.

Photo: Flora Van Den Berg. Ameet Solanki and Adrian Scott behind the camera!

Photo: Flora van den Berg.
Ameet Solanki and Adrian Scott behind the camera!

Myself with Adrian Scott, Scriptwriter/Managing Director/Producer of Mellow 9

Myself with Adrian Scott,
Scriptwriter/Managing Director/Producer of Mellow 9

When Will Bullies Get The Message? – by Patricia Foster McKenley

July 18, 2013 /
Photo: Patricia Foster Photo: © Patricia Foster McKenley

As individuals, we are ALL created uniquely beautiful. Some of us have gentle dispositions and are therefore misunderstood. Some of us are extremely sensitively wired and are therefore misunderstood. Some of us will NEVER fit into the mould of acceptable looks, or acceptable past times. It’s about having patience with and being accepting of others, instead of demonising them…because they are not like you!

Some of us may not have explored communication tools that can best express our thoughts or feelings, so may have difficulty in responding to harsh words or criticism, or are unable to articulate the inner pain connected to these harsh words. Speaking out against harsh, critical words may therefore be a huge challenge.
Some of us may feel unsupported, because we are unable to find the right person to express our innermost thoughts and feelings to, without the fear of our expressed feelings being thrown back in our faces.

There is a saying “hurt people hurt people”. Research has shown that those who are unhappy within, or are in pain themselves lash out or bully others, therefore hurting their intended target too.

I performed poetry at a recent ‘Loose Muse’ women’s writing event and a courageous young lady shared her own, deeply personal experiences of being bullied and subsequently wanting to take her own life. She mentioned also that in the area of south London where she resides, suicides among teenagers, in particular GCSE and A Level students were at a ridiculously high number. This was not just due to the pressures of life, but also about how some are made to feel by harsh comments and treatments by others.

Today, I read a Facebook post, which outlined the last Tweet posted by a young man, tormented over the years about his sexuality. He was commonly referred to as “a loser, freak and fag” and used this to describe himself in his last Twitter message. He felt he had done the world an injustice and therefore took his life.

Without the right support and understanding from others, when will people cease to remove their inner pain, torment and feelings of being misunderstood by taking their own lives?

Some of us will never be accepted, because we are moulded and act differently.

How can those of us who are emotionally stronger step in to help prevent bullying and help support and encourage those who are being bullied or misunderstood?

In my workshops and through my writing I have focussed on this, as I have also been bullied and victimised by others. I therefore choose to use my art and holistic and well-being tools to help stand up to this. Writing and coaching can be useful ways to express pain, as well as feel accepted and valued within.

© Patricia Foster McKenley 2013

Serena Williams’ French Open Win 2013: What Impact Can This Have on Girls and Young Women?

June 9, 2013 /
Photo Credit: PATRICK KOVARIK/AFP/Getty Images

Photo Credit: PATRICK KOVARIK/AFP/Getty Images

As somebody who is committed to empowering girls and young women through creative, literary and holistic approaches, I have so much time for Serena and Venus Williams. I would cite them as two of my favourite role models, especially when needed to counteract the sometimes negative images, representations and portrayal of women that we currently see in the media.

It is therefore very frustrating to see the unnecessary, negative press Serena and Venus sometimes receive, whilst having dry spells and even when they win grand slams.

As a vegan and ‘raw foodist’ myself, according to an article on ‘Examinar.com’ holisticnewsletter (http://www.examiner.com/article/serena-williams-shifts-to-raw-foods-diet-to-support-her-sister-venus), I’m aware Serena followed a raw vegan diet to support her sister Venus, who was diagnosed with the autoimmune disease Sjogren’s syndrome, reported in the Washington Post on April 27. Venus was already following a raw food diet (eating unprocessed, uncooked vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds juices and smoothies), and in solidarity with her sister, Serena became a raw vegan also.

Serena had also taken the time to heal from a recent life threatening illness herself. She has therefore been to the brink and back, overcoming adversity, personal family tragedy and negative criticism from the press to get back to what she does best; winning!

Yesterday I spent an afternoon at a lovely, well respected bakery in Dulwich, south London, with a group of young ladies I have been teaching on The Virtue Programme, an education and personal development course dedicated to building confidence and self esteem into the female leaders of tomorrow. The trip was to expose them to the positive experiences they can gain and more nutritional options open to them, if they don’t choose from the popular high street fast food eateries. I can already see them acknowledging how powerful they are and what goals are possible for them to achieve! Like Serena and Venus, these young ladies too can overcome any obstacles they are faced with, as well as override criticism and negative comments to be winners in life.

This French Open win is testimony to the fighter, determined woman and high achiever Serena Williams is!

Totally inspirational!

© Patricia Foster June 2013

The 2Inspire Network Birthday Celebration and Fundraiser – Featuring Patricia Foster

June 2, 2013 /

My Next Poetry Performance – by Patricia Foster

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Hope you’re having an inspired and positive day so far. I will be a featured Poet and Performer at

The 2inspire Network Birthday Celebration and Fundraiser for the 2inspire Academy

It will be taking place on Saturday 8th June

6pm-12am

at the Anise Bar, 9 Devonshire Square, EC2M 4YL

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(Across the road from Liverpool station, Car park a few minutes walk away from venue)

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The event will be a great evening out and a great chance to network, celebrate and be inspired.

Event programme:

6-7pm: Arrival of guests: Canapes & drinks reception (complimentary)

7-8pm: Networking hour

8pm-10pm: Entertainment: Poetry, Singing, Speakers

10-12pm: Party!!!

Hosts: Usha Penumuchi & Charley Jai

Guest speakers include:

Lorna Stewart (Black100+),
Kuumba Nia (Circle of one),
Carl Foster (Self Made Me)
Margaret Aberdeen (Life After Domestic Violence)
Plus more

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Live music and poetry from the likes of:

Amennoir/ Nyarai Kizzy
Cezanne Poetess
Patricia Foster
Linda E
Plus more

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There have been some great donations which include an amazing buffet and drinks reception courtesy of the renowned Cinnamon Kitchen and cupcakes courtesy of Dazzling little delights. Also some excellent raffle prizes to be won on the night.
To purchase tickets at just £8 click on the link below: http://www.2inspirenetwork.com/Birthdaycelebration/fundraiser

The 2inspire Academy kids have worked really hard with the Network team on the event planning as they are very focused on making sure their summer youth project is a success, please support them. To find out more about their project please click on link below: http://www.2inspirenetwork.com/2inspireAcademy

If you would like more information on the event or are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact:
Hazel Chawapiwa
2inspire Network
+44 (0)7590 622 501

‘Sensitivity and the Artist: The Link Between Sensitive Personalities and Creativity’  – by Award-Winning Writer & Holistic Coach Patricia Foster McKenley

May 15, 2013 /

‘Sensitivity and the Artist: The Link Between Sensitive Personalities and Creativity’
by Patricia Foster McKenley

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Being a sensitive adult can be viewed as either a curse or blessing to the said sensitive individual.
For many sensitive adults, who may deem this a curse, they can probably list a range of unwanted or difficult circumstances such as:

• Being highly affected by harsh and nasty comments
• Taking on board and feeling deeply saddened by others’ misfortune
• Being affected by criticism and judgment from others
• Always wanting to avoid confrontation or uncomfortable conversations
• Bearing childhood traumas that trigger off reactions to relatively similar adult situations
• Excruciating shyness
• Labelled too shy, too sensitive or a walkover by others
• Become stressed easily
• Experience low self-esteem
• High bouts of depression

However, many sensitive adults may deem it a blessing and look at the advantages such as:

• Being a good listener
• Possessing empathy
• Being excellent authors and poets
• Having the ability to express themselves as artists
• Being highly intuitive and spiritual
• Having high levels of patience

I have witnessed highly sensitive individuals, who champion the causes of other people, encouraging them to utilise their gifts. However, when it comes to expressing their own gifts, or operating from their higher selves or to their highest potential, they almost enter the realms of martyrdom, where it is virtually difficult for them to speak up or express their true selves.

Research has shown that many highly sensitive adults end up working as counsellors, teachers, artists, poets, writers, authors, social workers and healers /natural health practitioners and other caring professions.

According to Elaine N. Aron Ph.D., the author of ‘The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You’, the world can be an extremely, overwhelming and unassuming place to sensitive people in general and certain situations and environments are too overly stimulating. She also acknowledges that “one in every five people is born with a heightened sensitivity” and gifted with “intelligence and imagination”.

I speak as a sensitive adult myself, who has experienced or displayed many of the above traits. Reading Elaine’s book about The Highly Sensitive Person (HSPs) was a welcome breath of fresh air; it made me realise there was nothing wrong with me and indeed others I know who bear similar traits.

Due to the, at times, overwhelming and difficult circumstances in my life, I have had to identify the personality traits that I have and go through a stage of healing and being kind to myself. This ‘self identification’ and healing process allowed me to develop the skills and empathy to understand, listen and heal others (especially those who are sensitive) through teaching, training, art, film making, poetry, coaching and Reiki.

Over the years, I focused on ways to harness my sensitive nature and also balance this with being grounded and looking after my physical and emotional health.

I discovered that my emotional health was impacted by consuming certain foods that created imbalance (such as meat and alcohol). Through following a vegan and raw vegan diet and being teetotal, this has prevented me from becoming too overwhelmed and over stimulated by the world.

Being highly sensitive is a personality trait I feel blessed to have and with this, I endeavour to make this world a better place to exist in.

However, this is not to say that non-sensitive personalities are insensitive, impatient or possess little or no creative skills. This is to highlight that sensitive people are ‘wired’ uniquely and therefore respond to external stimuli in a unique way.

© Patricia Foster McKenley

Please feel free to leave a comment below
or email: info@youareyou.co
Patricia Foster McKenley is a Holistic Life Coach, an Award-Winning Internationally Published Poet, Performer, Visual and Multimedia Artist (BA Hons), Broadcaster, Certified Tutor/Trainer & Facilitator, Dynamic Educator and Creative Consultant. She is also a Certified Reiki Healer, Wellbeing Advisor, Vegan and lover of Raw Food. As a writer, she has worked for the BBC and has toured, performed and delivered Workshops in the UK, Europe, Jamaica, Gambia and the USA. 


For further info, email info@youareyou.co


or visit http://YouAreYOU.co

Using Poetry to Empower and Inspire Young Vulnerable People! By Patricia Foster

May 3, 2013 /

“I never teach my pupils; I only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn.”
~ Albert Einstein

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Back in 2005, a dear friend of mine asked if I would like to facilitate a poetry workshop at an east London school, where she worked as an Art Therapist. Her work at the school was on behalf of the fantastic Kids Company. At this juncture I was already aware of the wonderful work Kids Company was doing with young, emotionally challenged, but enthusiastic young people.

Over a four week period, I worked with children ranging from Year 2 to Year 4, to bring out their poetic talents. Seeing their excitement at having the opportunity to express and unleash their creativity through the art of literature was so heartwarming. Young people, some whom had never met a poet before, were soaring in confidence and brimming with self belief. I recall receiving high fives in the corridor from some of my students and a passing comment ‘Ah, my favourite poet’. All of this was testimony to the huge transformations taking place. The opportunity to change lives was made possible through Kids Company.

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Patricia Foster is a London based Writer, performer, creative/ICT education consultant, workshop facilitator and Coach. She has worked for the BBC, Apples and Snakes, in UK and USA schools and with many London Libraries.

For further info, email prfoster@hotmail.com or visit

http://about.me/patriciafoster and http://patriciafoster.blog.com/
Follow her on Twitter @Ms_P_Foster

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