Ayana’s Up With People Journey

Hey There!
I'm glad you've found your way here, and I ask that you Please Donate.

My name is Ayana Bean, and it is my goal to travel with Up With People (UWP) on a year long voyage starting this July 2017.

Who am I?
I am currently an intern at the National Museum of Bermuda, as well as at SJDWorld, a graphic design studio. I am also a member and volunteer of The Chewstick Foundation, where I was a participant in their youth poetry team and was given the chance to grow and develop in the youth programs offered by this invaluable organization. Chewstick has helped me in honing my vocal and guitar playing ability over the years. Check out the video below!

What's Up With People?
UWP is a not-for-profit organization that provides young people with the opportunity to travel to various communities to perform, learn about different cultures, and take on community projects that make a difference in the world. This organization came about in 1965, with a mission for young people to bring hope to the dismal world. Its past members have collectively completed over 3 million hours of community projects internationally. The program headquarters is in Denver, CO. If you want to find out more visit: www.upwithpeople.org.

Why I'd like to go
I would like to travel with this organization in earnest expectations, that I will improve my confidence and expand my knowledge base, in order to participate more effectively in my local community. In this ever-changing and diverse world, those best equipped to serve others are the ones who gain firsthand knowledge of its people. Thus, it will not be just a learning experience, but this travel opportunity will introduce me to other young people with a similar mindset.

How you can help
The total fee for my tour in July is $26,450. This is a significant, but worthy investment in my future and includes a multi-continent tour, meals, and nearly all of the other costs for this opportunity. Any assistance you can provide will go directly toward my program costs and will be of great value in helping me achieve this opportunity of a lifetime.

What I’ve done

I have taken up two part-time jobs to save up for the tour; as well as performed at various events, including the City Art Festival, Gina Spence Production, and Greenrock Earth Hour celebration. I also had the honour of opening a show for Mishka, a Bermudian reggae artist. With the support of family and friends I have raised $5,000, bringing the remaining cost down to just over $20,000.

I am planning to do more performances in May and June, including performing in the Chewstick Foundations Art showcase, as well as hosting my own show with special guest artists ...stay tuned for more details about these events by adding your name to my email list!

With your support, you can make my journey possible. Thank you for your generous donations!

Ayana