Over the past few weeks, Port Loyola Library came alive with creativity, imagination, and self-expression through Roots & Rhythms, a storytelling and expressive arts summer program. This initiative, led by META Belize in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Belize Sunrise, created a vibrant space where young minds could explore the power of stories and artistic expression.
Guided by Mrs. Azalia Larrieu, the program welcomed primary school students from the Port Loyola community, offering them a unique opportunity to build confidence, develop literacy skills, and connect with their creativity. Each session was thoughtfully designed to engage students through storytelling, reading, and interactive expression.
A highlight of the program was the involvement of guest speakers who visited the library to read stories aloud, sparking imagination and meaningful discussions among the students. In addition, participants were encouraged to take the lead, reading books themselves and sharing stories with their peers.
Beyond storytelling, Roots & Rhythms fostered a sense of community and belonging. Students were given the freedom to express themselves, connect with others, and celebrate their unique voices in a supportive environment.
The program concluded with participants receiving certificates of completion and small tokens of appreciation for their dedication and enthusiasm.
Through initiatives like Roots & Rhythms, META Belize continues to invest in the future of Belize by empowering young people with the tools to express themselves, tell their stories, and shape their communities.
