Skoot recites a poem about his experience finding mentors at Roxbury Community College
On April 5th, members of the Roxbury community joined us for our first ever open mic night, “Mentoring Matters: We Mic It Like That.” Hosted by Roxbury Community College, the mentoring-themed event served as an open space for guests to perform poetry and song — and featured a special performance by local slam poet, Joseph “Skoot” Mosby.
Skoot opened his set with a tribute poem to the mentors in his life at Roxbury Community College, one of whom, Elizabeth Clark, was in attendance that night. He described her as “the best person I’ve ever met.” The Director of Student Life and Engagement at RCC, Ms. Clark was a key individual in making the evening such a success.
Ahna Kielar, SGA President Denise William, Featured Poet Joseph “Skoot” Mosby, RCC Student Life Director Elizabeth Clark, and SGA representative Monique Paul
Students and school staff read poetry dedicated to the mentors in their lives, their homes, and some of the personal struggles they have dealt with. Even some children showed off their courage — taking to the stage to perform songs about their lives at school while using phones as impromptu karaoke machines. While many inspiring lines were shared throughout the night, one young poet perfectly encapsulated the theme: “A mentor is someone who really cares for you!”
Many of the performers referenced Roxbury Community College in their poems, acknowledging the community as one where meaningful connections and mentorships are consistently fostered. One poet, Denise, read, “When I came to Roxbury, I grew up in many directions,” before referring to her own place as a mentor now, saying “If you are 9, 10, or 11, you are my inspiration, your generation.”
Dolores and her son perform a song for the crowd
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible, and especially to our friends at Roxbury Community College who so enthusiastically helped to plan it. We look forward to deepening our partnership with the Roxbury community!