In spring–summer 2024, Creativity Everything is delighted to be supporting Kelvin Doe as our newest Research Associate. Kelvin has built an international reputation over many years. He founded the Kelvin Doe Foundation with a mission to provide creative spaces to nurture communities, ignite a culture of innovation, and inspire civic engagement.
Kelvin writes: “From May to August, I will be embarking on a creative journey, working on various projects that are integral to my heart and the community.
Here are some of the projects I will be working on this spring–summer.
Launching the “Meaningful Making Podcast”
One of the most exciting projects I will spearhead is launching the “Meaningful Making Podcast.” Hosted and produced by me, this podcast aims to explore the transformative power of making and creativity in our lives. Through engaging conversations with makers, educators, and innovators, we will explore how the act of “making” can lead to personal and communal growth. This platform aims to highlight diverse voices and fosters a community of like-minded individuals passionate about the intersection of creativity and social impact.
Building a Student-Led Maker-Centered Group
In addition to the podcast, I will be working with Ashley Jane Lewis, Postdoctoral Fellow at the Creativity Everything lab, to establish an interdisciplinary, student-led, making-centered group that makes space for Black students group within The Creative School. The aim is to provide a space for Black students to collaborate, share resources, and bring their creative projects to life. By fostering a supportive environment, we hope to encourage innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a sense of belonging among students from diverse backgrounds.
Expanding the Maker Classroom Program
Another significant aspect of my role will involve expanding the Maker Classroom program to younger learners in underserved communities across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). This is a modular program that engages younger learners in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) subjects through a maker-centered approach. The lessons teach STEAM fundamental concepts, from the basics of electricity and coding to advanced circuit building and programming, with a set of playful, hands-on experiments grounded in the real world. By bringing hands-on, creative learning experiences to these communities, we aim to inspire the next generation of thinkers and makers, providing them with the skills and confidence to pursue their passions.
Maker Classroom has a history in Canada. Its first iteration took place in Windsor, Ontario, in February 2020, during which I visited nine schools in the Windsor-Essex Catholic District, including Our Lady of the Annunciation, St. John the Baptist, St. Pius, St. Gabriel, and St. Rose Elementary School.
Engaging with the Creativity Everything Lab
I will be collaborating with researchers, exploring new methodologies and technologies, and contributing to the vibrant creative ecosystem at the university. My hope is that every day will bring a new opportunity to learn and make a meaningful impact.
Looking Ahead
As I embark on this journey, I am filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. The projects I will be working on are not just about making and creativity; they are about fostering connections, empowering communities, and driving meaningful change. I am grateful for the support and mentorship of Ashley Jane Lewis, David Gauntlett, and the entire team at The Creative School, and I look forward to sharing more updates with you all.”