Bri Antwon Wilson (bottom photo), a senior, and Seligmin Foster (top photo), a 2023 graduate who has remained deeply involved as an alumnus.
Detroit Community Schools (DCS) is more than an institution to me—it’s a cornerstone of my identity and growth. My enduring connection with Mr. Bart Eddy, a guiding force at DCS, kept me updated on the school’s growth long after my graduation. Social media posts and word of mouth painted a picture of transformation, but I needed to see it for myself. Returning to DCS wasn’t just a visit; it was a journey to reconnect with a space that shaped me and rediscover its evolving impact on students and the community.
What I found upon my return left me awestruck. The once-familiar woodshop class had blossomed into a multifaceted program, providing students hands-on experiences three days a week and on Saturday mornings. An underutilized space had been transformed into the thriving Brightmoor makerspace, showcasing the school’s commitment to innovation and growth. Determined to capture the essence of these changes, I visited DCS three times, each visit filling me with an energy that was both nostalgic and inspiring. On November 23rd, I conducted a two-part interview with students and faculty in the multimedia and woodshop departments, delving into how these programs empower youth voices and foster creativity.
My session with the Multimedia Department was especially enlightening. I spoke with Antwon Wilson, a senior and Seligmin Foster, a 2023 graduate who has remained deeply involved as an alumnus. Both students offered candid reflections on their experiences in the program, their aspirations, and the transformative power of creative expression.
I began the conversation by asking Antwon and Seligmin to define their department and its purpose. Seligmin shared that the program started with basic video recording and editing within the school but evolved over time to include diverse projects like music production and city-wide video shoots. He recalled highlights such as filming skating videos downtown during the holiday season and producing an episodic series called “Walk With Me,” where students interviewed community members. “It spread to different things as time went on,” Seligmin said, capturing the department’s dynamic nature.
Antwon highlighted what makes the multimedia program unique: “We’re not forced to do anything we don’t want to do. We all have an interest in something, and we entertain people with things that entertain us.” This freedom, coupled with guidance from their instructor Mike, who has fostered an environment where creativity thrives. “Mike helps us fit our jobs to our interests,” Antwon added.
The impact of their instructor, Mike, was a recurring theme throughout the interview. Both students praised his ability to build relationships and tailor the program to their passions. “Mike’s so cool,” Seligmin said. “He figures out what you want to do, teaches you, and if you’re not interested he helps you find something else. He’s creative, a jack of all trades, and someone you can trust and look up to.” Antwon echoed these sentiments, noting Mike’s balance of authority and approachability: “He doesn’t abuse his authority. He’s creative and helps us think differently.”
I then asked how the program incorporates and amplifies youth voices. Seligmin explained that Mike instills the importance of media as a tool for expression and connection. “He empowers us to get ourselves into the media and speak freely,” Seligmin said. “It’s a confidence booster. Here, you have the resources to turn dreams into reality.” Antwon added that the program provides an outlet for self-expression, which is crucial for young people navigating personal and societal challenges. “It’s important to express yourself and your talents without fear of judgment,” he said.
The program’s influence extends beyond the school walls. Both Antwon and Seligmin spoke about how their work resonates with family and friends. “It surprises them,” Seligmin said. “When they see us making music or shooting films, they’re amazed. It opens their eyes to how far we’ve come.” Growing up in Detroit, where traditional paths like factory jobs were often emphasized, the program offers a refreshing alternative. “We’re getting paid to do what we see our idols doing,” Seligmin said. “It builds confidence and motivates us to keep going.”
As the interview wrapped up, I asked what keeps them coming back every Saturday. For Antwon, it’s about staying out of trouble and pursuing his passions: “I could choose to be in the streets, but I choose to be here, expressing myself through music, photos, or editing.” Seligmin described it as a place where dreams become reality: “Everything you wish for during the week, you can make happen on Saturday.”
Their parting words were filled with determination and hope. Antwon plans to attend college while continuing his creative pursuits, and Seligmin is focused on building a career in music and expanding his opportunities. Both emphasized the importance of programs like this in empowering youth and fostering self-expression. “Plan B is to make Plan A work,” Antwon said—a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of DCS’s multimedia program.
This interview reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of creative education. DCS continues to evolve, providing students with the tools and confidence to express themselves and impact their communities. It’s a testament to what’s possible when education is rooted in empowerment, innovation, and connection.
To read the entirety of our interview please check out the pdf: https://semiscoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Heart-of-the-Brightmoor-Makerspace-Pt-1_-Youth-Music-and-Movement.pdf