At FFEC’s Trilokpuri center, creativity and imagination took center stage in a magical workshop designed to ignite the minds of children aged 10-15. Originally planned for Independence Day, the workshop was delayed but brought to life soon after, offering young participants a profound exploration of freedom through art and self-expression. This workshop became a beacon of inspiration, blending creativity and reflection as these young individuals examined the theme of freedom through their unique lenses.

Guiding the session was the talented Ms. Samina Mishra, a documentary filmmaker, writer, and educator based in New Delhi. Passionate about using media to reflect the experiences of childhood, identity, and education in India, Samina ji brought a wealth of experience and insight to the workshop. Her acclaimed podcast, The Storyteller’s Journey, explores the narratives of children from diverse backgrounds, shining a light on the powerful lessons their stories hold. Through this platform, Samina ji connects with children to explore their unique stories, and for this workshop, she tapped into the same energy to engage the young participants.

Samina ji’s influence extends beyond storytelling—she has taught the International Baccalaureate Film program at Pathways School, Noida, and curated the children’s section at the prestigious MAMI Mumbai Film Festival. She has also collaborated on Torchlight, a web journal celebrating libraries and literature. As the founder of The Magic Key Centre for the Arts and Childhood, Samina ji continues to create virtual resources, design workshops, and share materials for children and educators alike. Notably, she led the Lockdown Art Project, engaging children in creative practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the Trilokpuri workshop, her expertise shone through, and under her guidance, the children were encouraged to explore the idea of “Azaadi” (freedom) through various artistic expressions. Her powerful podcast on the subject set the tone for the day, drawing the kids into a space of introspection and self-expression. With the help of art, they explored what freedom meant to them—whether it was the freedom to play, dream, or express themselves without constraints. Samina ji created an environment where creativity flowed freely, and the children poured their hearts into crafting beautiful poems, each piece reflecting their emotional connection to freedom, peppered with their own local experiences.

The workshop became a celebration of young voices, where the children confidently shared their work, proud of their creations and eager to engage with their peers. As they recited their poems and reflected on freedom, the air was filled with the joy of discovery. Each poem was a window into how these young individuals view the world—some expressing the simple freedoms of everyday life, while others voiced their dreams and concerns for the future.

Looking back on this unforgettable day, the workshop was much more than an activity—it was an empowering experience. The children learned that art is not only a tool for self-expression but also a powerful way to connect with important ideas. They discovered that freedom is both personal and collective, influenced by their individual lives and the world they inhabit.

This workshop reaffirmed FFEC’s commitment to nurturing creativity and providing young minds with the space to explore important themes. As we celebrate this day, we also celebrate the incredible work of Samina Mishra and the boundless potential of the children who participated. This experience was a true reminder of the power of art to inspire, connect, and empower.