T1D Community Arts

T1D Community Arts

Arts Programming for Youth with T1D

Free to Be Program

Diabetes may be taught like a math problem, but some days, it feels like 2+2 never equals 4. Through our Free to Be programming, DHF provides a safe space for youth to explore the human side of type 1 diabetes (T1D), focusing on navigating the highs and lows (pun intended!) that are a part of living with T1D. Join our dynamic facilitators as we explore beyond the numbers to create a space to connect, create and educate!

Free to Be, Diabetes Art

Program Details

in-person program

The in-person Free to Be program combines elements of visual and dramatic arts to embrace life with T1D. Open to students in secondary school from across the GTA, youth have the opportunity to connect with fellow T1Ds (including their two artistic facilitators!) and explore the day to day highs and lows of life with diabetes using visual arts, improv and classical theatre techniques. Follow us on social media for more information about upcoming sessions, and read the script written by our Free to Be performers, The World Goes Low.

Join us as we explore diabetes beyond the numbers and create a space to connect, create and educate! For more information, contact [email protected].

“When there’s something about you that you can’t change and are forced to deal with, it’s nice to be able to just congregate with others like you to appreciate the specialness of the something.”

~ Free to Be Participant

Online Zine Project

Through our T1D Community Arts programming, DHF launched T1Zine in June 2024. A collective work created by youth from across Canada, the first edition of T1Zine explores the stigma youth face as they navigate life with T1D while the second edition focuses on the many different kinds of support they receive. Participants use thought provoking visual arts and creative writing to express and educate.

Interested in contributing to a future issue of our Zine? Email us at [email protected].

Free Downloads

Free to Be Program, Diabetes Art Program, Diabetes Theatre Program, Diabetes Art

The World Goes Low Script
2024 Free to Be Spring Showcase

T1Zine - Support

T1Zine – Support

Meet the Program Facilitators

T1D Community Arts

Nathaniel Kinghan

Amal, Free to Be

Amal Bashir

Free to Be Program, Rav Samra

Ravjot Samra

Workshops

ZINE WORKSHOP

DHF ZINE WORKSHOP (16+) 🎨

👉 JOIN US: February 15th, 2-4 PM
📍 Crane Creations Studio (just a 15-minute walk from the Clarkson GO Station!)

Looking for a fun, creative space to connect with others living with type 1 diabetes? Come join us for a FREE drop-in Zine Workshop! Enjoy art, conversation, and a chance to unwind while connecting with others who understand your journey.

Writer's Circle

We’re excited to announce a new Writer’s Circle for those living with type 1 diabetes! Whether you’re an experienced writer or just starting, this is a safe space to write, share your stories, and connect with others who understand your experiences.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect creatively with others in the T1D community.

Register Now >

Songwriters Circle

Attention all songwriters, musicians, and music lovers! Join our Virtual Songwriter’s Circle and unleash your creativity without limits.

Age Range: 17-25

🗓 When: Monthly sessions
🕒 Time: 7:00pm EST (Next session: Nov 21)
💻 Where: Zoom (Link provided upon registration)

Guided by the expertise of Heather Cadigan & Daniel Moshe, this workshop dives into the essentials of songwriting and instrumentation. Discover the art of creating captivating lyrics and melodies while building your composition skills.

What to Expect:

  • Introductory songwriting exercises
  • An introduction to song structure
  • Collaborative and interactive workshops on lyricism, composition, and music production
  • Opportunities to share your original songs
  • A supportive community of fellow artists

Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your craft, this is the perfect space to grow and connect. Bring your passion, enthusiasm, and creativity!

T1D Community Arts, T1D Community, diabetes arts program,

Generously funded by:

Aubrey & Marla Dan Foundation
Aubrey & Marla Dan Foundation