Spaces of Expression Project – Participatory Art Therapy and Youth Expression

Activity Report

Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026

Location: RAFIO Offices – 235 Montreal Road, Unit 203, Vanier, Ontario K1L 6C7

Project: Spaces of Expression

Theme: Participatory Art Therapy and Youth Expression

Introduction

On Thursday, June 11, 2026, as part of the Spaces of Expression project, RAFIO organized a participatory art therapy activity designed to provide young people with a safe, inclusive, and judgment-free environment where they could explore mental health through various forms of artistic expression.

The objective of this activity was to encourage emotional expression, build self-confidence, foster meaningful dialogue among youth, and promote mental well-being through creative and participatory approaches.

Activity Overview

Participants were divided into different groups, allowing them to experience a variety of artistic activities that encouraged reflection, creativity, and personal expression.

Activities Conducted

Throughout the day, participants took part in a range of interactive activities, including:

• Creating video podcasts, providing an opportunity to discuss topics related to mental health, personal experiences, and issues affecting young people in an atmosphere of respect and active listening;

• Developing scenarios and role-playing activities, where participants used drama and improvisation to express their emotions, ideas, and personal realities;

• Participating in artistic expression exercises designed to strengthen communication skills, active listening, and self-confidence;

• Engaging in group discussions that encouraged participants to reflect on and share insights inspired by their creative work.

Through these activities, participants developed their ability to communicate their experiences while discovering new ways to explore and discuss mental health.

Participation and Feedback

The young participants demonstrated great enthusiasm, creativity, and active engagement throughout the activity.

The video podcasts, role-playing exercises, and group discussions gave everyone the opportunity to express themselves freely in a supportive and respectful environment. Participants appreciated using art as a meaningful way to communicate their thoughts and reflect on their emotional well-being.

The activity also promoted mutual respect, active listening, appreciation of diverse life experiences, and stronger connections among participants.

Closing of the Activity

The day concluded with a sharing session during which participants presented their creative work and reflected on what they had learned throughout the activity.

These moments celebrated each participant's creativity while strengthening their sense of belonging and confidence in expressing themselves.

Conclusion

This Spaces of Expression activity enabled young people to explore mental health through innovative and participatory artistic approaches. The podcasts, role-playing activities, and theatre exercises provided meaningful opportunities for participants to express their emotions, share their personal experiences, and develop practical tools to support their well-being.

By creating a safe, inclusive, and judgment-free environment, RAFIO continues to promote youth mental health by encouraging creativity, self-expression, and open dialogue.

We sincerely thank all the young participants for their enthusiasm, authenticity, and creativity, which greatly contributed to the success of this activity.