I came to SKETCH for the first time over three years ago. I had always loved art but was shy about trying it, because when I was younger, I wasn’t given the belief that I could be successful at art. I always hesitated.

But I never hesitate to express myself at SKETCH.

At SKETCH, I found my love for being creative, and my love for art. People here like and appreciate what I draw, and my singing voice too. I’ve gained perspective on what I’m good at. I feel freer now because I was able to play with the art supplies at SKETCH and see amazing ideas come to life.

I’ve also learned that I love baking and cooking and learning in SKETCH’s kitchen. I’ve gained skills in everything from how to hold a knife, to food preparation, to time management.

As my culinary skills developed, I decided I wanted to get advanced training. Thanks to SKETCH’s relationship with George Brown College, I got accepted to the Assistant Cook Extended Training Program. I’ve been in school for four months now, and I’ll be graduating this August!

There are other young people who want to learn new skills at SKETCH and carve a path for themselves out of homelessness and poverty.

Folks from all walks of life come to SKETCH to be inspired, or perhaps to find freedom from depression and loneliness through expressing themselves. I really do appreciate SKETCH for giving me a chance. If you’d like to donate to SKETCH visit here.

P.S.: Watch this animation film I made at SKETCH called “Be Brave.” It’s the story of a girl who heroically overcomes her ocean of problems.

-By Johanna, Animation and Culinary Artist

Photo credit: Justin Richardson