Hundreds of people lined the street outside of Toronto’s Capitol Theatre early yesterday evening, waiting to get into what was being touted as “this year’s biggest and most controversial youth event” – ‘Poetic Fashion: Building Bridges…Not Barriers.’ Hosted by Literature for Life , the show brought together youth from Toronto’s 13 priority neighbourhoods, who represented themselves and each other through fashion design, art, music and spoken word.

With ten spoken word artists, five local designers showcasing their clothing lines, seventeen performers (ranging from rappers, singers, songwriters, dancers, and a pianist), twenty models and two hosts, all eyes were glued to the bustling runway as youth strutted, sang, and spoke their truths. The sheer honesty and talent of many of the performers was enough to send shivers down my spine. One of my best friends, Aki Mi, performed a spoken word piece, and was no exception.

Hopefully they’ll get the timing down pat by next year (it went overtime by almost an hour) – and yes, I’d definitely go again. The energy and passion of participants and attendees alike was palpable, it was highly entertaining and raised money for a great cause.

At a Yonge St. bar with Aki Mi (pictured here with Mark Pereira, Editor-in-Chief of Performance Auto and Sounds Magazine, showing off some of her swag – clothing from one of the local designers who participated in the show) and some others, I asked her to tell me about her experience as a performer in Poetic Fashion.

“I was backstage most of the time but guessing from the audience’s reaction, I am positive the show was a hit! The fundraiser aimed at breaking down the stereotypes youth from ‘at risk’ neighbourhoods face, as well as creating a platform for the participants to showcase their talents. Everything about the event – the production, the clothes, the artists, models, and musicians – all came from youth in the 13 high priority neighbourhoods of the GTA. My hope is to see more unity amongst our city, and to one day provide an opportunity for talented youth, just as Poetic Fashion has done for me!”