LAUGHTER, conversation, and moments of reflective silence intertwined as Art of Motivation Inc founder and artist Shawn Ashman led Enid Bennett High School students through the ‘Draw It Out’ programme, hosted in partnership with the D&G Foundation.

Some 50 students from grades seven to 11, accompanied by teachers, explored their feelings through drawing and creative expression. For students still navigating the effects of Hurricane Melissa, the exercise offered a moment of release and calm, turning abstract emotions into tangible forms that carried a sense of peace beyond the classroom walls.

Ashman, known to many as Lady Ash, opened the workshop personal stories that helped the group settle into the reflective work ahead. She encouraged them to notice how the storm may still be affecting their mood and concentration, then guided them towards expressing those feelings through colour, line, and form. “If you cannot draw, write words. Perfection is not required. This is about you,” she reminded them as they began placing their emotions on paper.

Throughout the morning, she returned to a single idea that grounded the discussion: resilience. Ashman encouraged the students to set ambitious goals and remain receptive to opportunity as they navigate uncertainty.

The ‘Draw It Out’ programme has now reached more than 150 students, teachers, and parents across several schools, offering a structured approach that strengthens emotional awareness and classroom engagement. As part of the day’s support, the D&G Foundation also donated a microscope to the school’s biology lab, reinforcing its commitment to providing resources that uplift both learning and emotional development. Schools report that the sessions have created a calmer learning environment, encouraged openness among students, and given staff a practical tool they can continue to use to support well-being.

Grade 9B student and past participant Tia Smith shared that her earlier experience in the workshop influenced her own coping habits. “The programme was very inspiring because I have anger issues, so I draw to help me relax,” she said. “I was supposed to attend this session, but I told my teacher to give someone else the chance and maybe it can help them as well.”

Her schoolmate Nastascia Edwards added that the skills she learned have helped her manage difficult emotions on days when she feels tired or sad. “The programme is very stress-relieving, and it is a great way to learn to paint with friendly and engaging facilitators,” she said.

As the session closed, students lifted their finished paintings for a group photograph. The facilitators left them with a simple reminder: Creativity is not only a form of expression but a way to navigate uncertainty.

A mix of students from grades seven to 11 at Enid Bennett High School display their completed artwork from the ‘Draw It Out’ session.