“I Have Hope for the Future”
Malik’s Story: Healing, Expression, and the Power of Showing Up
Where It Started
Malik showed up with headphones on and his guard up. He wasn’t ready to talk, but he started to draw. A caseworker noticed his sketches and gently encouraged him to use art to process his story.
Over time, those quiet drawings turned into something more. Through art workshops and 1:1 support, Malik began opening up, first to his caseworker, then to the group.
How FYI Showed Up
HTARP offered more than art, it offered trust. Through culturally responsive, trauma-informed programming, Malik found tools to name his emotions, explore his experiences, and rebuild his confidence. He created a final piece titled “Rewritten,” which was featured in FYI’s youth art show. That night, Malik stood up and told his story publicly, for the first time.
“The program helped me think twice about the decisions I make,”Malik says. “I learned how to communicate more and ask for help.”
How Support Took Shape
One-on-one caseworker support and mentorship
Creative spaces for self-expression and emotional processing
Creative spaces for self-expression and emotional processing
Today, Malik is back in school, attending therapy, and applying for an arts internship. He also returns to FYI’s RISE Mentorship Program as a guest speaker, sharing his journey with other justice-involved youth.
He’s not just healing, he’s leading.
Where He Is Now
“I’m able to identify my emotions now, which helps me work through them in everyday life.”
Program Highlight: RISE 2.0
82 youth engaged
107 counselling sessions delivered
90% of youth now feel confident identifying supportive resources
100% Retention Rate
