MDGP 3.0 (Winter 2022)

This is the cohort for Modern Day Griot 3.0 (Winter 2022)

  • Kereisha Biggs

    Submitted by kstapelfeldt on

    Hi, my name is Kereisha! I am a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of Toronto Scarborough pursuing a double major in English and Linguistics. I have always been passionate about all things communication--whether it be escaping in a novel or having a meaningful conversation. I love to laugh, learn, grow in my faith, and embrace every success and challenge that comes my way. "For I wreckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." -Romans 8:18

    See Kereisha's Project

    HEADSHOT
    Image
    Photo of Kereisha Biggs
  • Joshua Spencer

    Submitted by kstapelfeldt on

    "I'm a UTSC Creative Writing Major—I'm a Scarborough-born Grenadian, but my 'roots' are in Ghana.

    I'm the type of guy who enjoys humour, even if it's at my expense, honesty, and exquisite music taste (mainly Rap, lo-fi, R n' B). I'm an avid J. Cole fan, whose mentality has been shaped by Jocko Willink's book, ""Extreme Ownership,"" Alex Haley's ""Autobiography of Malcolm X,"" and Charlamagne Tha God's ""Black Privilege.""

    I aim to become a respected high-school English Teacher and Principal, while publishing my novel based on my Scarborough upbringing.

    I've matured to appreciate the huge blessings and small life lessons."

    See Joshua's Project

    HEADSHOT
    Image
    Image of Joshua Spencer
  • Lauraine Ramazani Buledi

    Submitted by kstapelfeldt on

    "In essence, I am a persistent and compassionate person. Based on my past experiences as a former refugee and an immigrant, I have learned to be persistent and optimistic. However, this is an ongoing process because it's hardly possible to remain optimistic and positive at all times. Especially in situations and places where one is unwelcome. Therefore, I value surrounding myself with people and things that make me feel at home and at peace. This includes family, friends, art and music. My experiences helped reinforce my passion for creating inclusive spaces that present comfort and belonging. I strive to incorporate this type of work in my professional future as I have been doing at the University of Toronto."

    See Lauraine's Project

    HEADSHOT
    Image
    Image of Lauraine Ramazani Buledi
  • Djigbonde Daniella Christiane DJAIGBE

    Submitted by kstapelfeldt on

    "Either you run the day, or the day run you" My name is Djigbonde which in my native from Benin, mean Patience, which perfectly characterizes my personality. I also go by Daniella ♡, and I am a Psychological and Health study student planning to go into the medical field. I love to read and write, which brought me to write different unpublish novels about injustice and discrimination in our society. I am all about empowering each other and sharing knowledge to black youth to help them gain more knowledge and awareness around them. I am not only interested in writing but in any form of creative expression such as dance, theater and photography. ☺"

    See Djigbonde's Project

    HEADSHOT
    Image
    Image of Djigbonde Daniella Christiane DJAIGBE
  • Shennel Simpson

    Submitted by kstapelfeldt on

    "Hiya!! I'm a first year undergraduate student, pursuing a double major in population health and human biology with a minor in psychology! When I'm not studying or sleeping, you can find me playing video games, reading, singing, or writing spoken word poems! I started writing them during the pandemic, and since then its become my favourite pastime. The rhythms, the rhymes, the story, the power; what's not to love? After completing my bachelor's degree, I plan on getting a Master's In Social Work and then heading to medical school. Until then, I'm excited to see what this program holds!"

    See Shennel's Project

    HEADSHOT
    Image
    Image of Shenney Simpson
  • Chinell Watson

    Submitted by kstapelfeldt on

    "Hello my name is Chinell pronouns are she/her I am currently in my second year in the Master of Teaching program in the PJ steam at OISE! I strongly believe in self-love, care, and autonomy, creating an equitable, inclusive classroom that Black students can have a voice in the learning environment and in their community. I am excited to be apart of the Modern- Day Griot for the second time, being in relation with like minded individuals who has a story that needs to be shared. Having that opportunity to do so and learn about the Nguzo Saba principles is enriching. I am excited to share my stories with the world!"

    See Chinell's project

    HEADSHOT
    Image
    Image of Chenelle Watson