BACKGROUND
A long time ago, an experienced artist took a very self-conscious, scared, and inexperienced young man under his wing, providing guidance and support that would ultimately help him transform his raw ideas for music tracks into polished, recorded songs. That young man was Nick, who now proudly heads up WINGS. Over the past 10 years, Nick has dedicated himself to working in prisons and communities across the UK, witnessing firsthand the incredible power music has to transform the lives of countless young people. He’s deeply passionate about the universal language of music, which has the remarkable ability to bring hope and inspiration, and even save lives in the process.
PURPOSE AND VISION
Headed up by Nick Shahlavi, an award-winning rap and grime musician, who has experienced first-hand the destructive forces of crime, drugs, and gang culture, Wings is all about nurturing young people’s musical and creative talents. The initiative focuses on providing them with the tools they need to express themselves while also helping them build their confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.
HOW IT WORKS
Music breaks down barriers and plays a crucial role in helping young people express their innermost feelings and concerns. Through engaging music workshops and personalized one-to-one sessions, Nick teaches his pupils valuable skills in lyric writing and performance that significantly promote their self-development. He has witnessed young individuals’ self-esteem and confidence dramatically build, allowing them to develop vital life skills, such as effectively expressing their feelings in a healthy and constructive manner.
Over the course of the program, young individuals have the unique opportunity to complete either a recorded track that conveys a powerful message regarding their personal experiences or pressing societal issues, or to create an uplifting and inspiring creative piece of production through the artful craft of lyrical storytelling. All of Nick’s innovative sessions are meticulously designed to complement and enhance a school’s spiritual, moral, social, and cultural (SMSC) development in meaningful ways.
