USM, PENANG, 31 March 2017 - A visit by an American poet and spoken word artist, Baraka Blue, was made possible recently with the collaboration between the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Languages, Literacies and Translation (SoLLaT), the United States Embassy of Kuala Lumpur and Crescent Collective.

Baraka conducted a creative writing workshop entitled 'Building Impactful Narratives' for SoLLaT students and staff at the school’s Conference Hall.

According to the Dean of SoLLaT, Professor Dr. Tengku Sepora Tengku Mahadi, the aim of this workshop was to provide exposure to the students on constructing varied narratives, spoken words and how to spread the messages in a positive manner.

"I believe that in the era where spoken word is popular among the youth, Baraka Blue would be a good role model and inspiration to them in a popular culture that are filled with varied narratives," said Tengku Sepora. 

Baraka Blue meanwhile said, narratives in poetry is one example of an artistic expression and art is not limited to only painting or music, as art covers all aspects of life, especially in the way we perceive the world and how we express them.

Also present were the Deputy Dean (Student Affairs and Alumni), Dr. Thomas Chow Voon Foo; Deputy Dean (Research, Postgraduate and Network), Dr. Ilangko Subramaniam, lecturers and 30 students from the English for Professional programme.

This workshop was part of the Baraka Blue Malaysia Tour 2017 from 27^th March to 5^th April, where the international artist will be conducting writing workshops, poetry reading, motivational talks and dialogue sessions.

Text: Rodiah Md Daud (Intern, USM School of Communication)