05/03/2026
On March 3, Mae Jemison American Space hosted an inspiring Freedom 250 program titled “Freedom, Individualism and Unity Through Spoken Word Poetry,” welcoming 45 youth participants from across Mamelodi.
Landen Raszick, the English Language Fellow, and Gena Rhoades, Regional English Language Officer, thoughtfully curated the session, guiding students as they explored poetry’s power as a voice for freedom and identity.
In celebration of Freedom 250, the program highlighted the importance of writing in English as a global language of expression and introduced students to influential American poets such as Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou.
Learners engaged in meaningful discussions about what makes a poem a poem—examining structure, imagery, rhythm, and emotion. They also participated in creative writing exercises that encouraged them to express their personal experiences and perspectives on freedom and unity.
The session also included a critical analysis of powerful works by American poets, inspiring participants to see poetry as a tool for storytelling, reflection, and change. ✨📚✍️