Workshop Description:
Experience an interactive 3-part journey that will teach you how to heal through the expressive word art of Poetry and self-expression. Miss Mabeline will guide you step-by-step through the process of tuning in with your feelings, arranging them in poetic format, then sharing those words through a release into the atmosphere. There is someone in the midst of every crowd that is meant to hear your words - and that someone may even be YOU.

Confirmation that you’re sharing authentically from the heart can come in many forms. It may be a smile, a tear, or a thank you for your bravery.

Either way - this activity is the beginning of a journey that can lead you to and through pathways of positive change long after Sol Fest ends!

Facilitator Bio:
Mabeline Howard is a Poet, Nonprofit Leader, Marketing, Entrepreneur, and Lover of the Arts. She is an Erie native who wears many creative hats. In her current role as Executive Director at the Bethany Outreach Center, Mabeline uses her artistic talents to bridge gaps and foster equity. She is also a Facilitator of the Youth Philanthropy Program, Hear Erie’s Youth (HEY!), sponsored by the Erie Community Foundation. Whatever the role, Mabeline relishes opportunities to uplift and encourage all who come into her path, particularly those in underserved communities.

As an Entrepreneur, Mabel is the proprietor and owner of two local businesses. In 2019, she opened Cafe 7-10, the 1st Black owned dessert and coffee shop in the city of Erie. Her consulting company, Mind And Body Education Link (M.A.B.E.L.), creates and implements programs that generate positive change in urban neighborhoods. A core concentration of M.A.B.E.L. is developing resources to address the needs of underprivileged children and families.  

In her “down time” Mabel is a Word Artist, sharing poetry on many stages, most notably Express Yourself On The Mic with Miss Mabeline and the Poetry X-Change, which she curated and produced. While her work can be seen in anthologies and magazines, Mabel is excited to soon finish and publish her first book of poetry.

Mabel is known as a visionary and Organizer of Express Yourself Open Mic   Tour with Miss Mabeline featuring appearances from 11 Erie Poets whose work has been published in Pratik -a magazine of contemporary writing.

Mabel is most interested in creating platforms to encourage more African Americans and people of color (all ages) to be involved with educational programs that help develop literacy skills. She believes poetry opens doors, leading to exciting ways to learn about your history, other cultures, the importance of diversity, and the benefits of unity.  

On diversity and inclusion, Mabel believes “Peace begins when you learn to love thyself. At that very moment you will truly appreciate the gifts/ talents that every culture can bring to the table when invited and welcomed.”