Once again, creativity, ingenuity, and community service will take center stage at New Era Creative Space (NECS). On Sunday, June 8, the grassroots organization will hold the sixth edition of Creativity Ignited, a gathering that will bring together networking, brunch, awards, inspiring speeches, and a ceremonial close to the cycle. The event will begin at 11:45 a.m. and will honor accomplishments, celebrate those who achieved them, and set new goals.

At that hour, the doors of The Garrison will open to welcome educators, leaders, and young people who are part of this independent initiative. Since 2013, NECS has combined art, education, and social action to help shape the next generation in Peekskill and neighboring communities. The event will begin promptly, opening with brunch, followed by speeches and concluding with informal conversations among attendees.

In the final segment of Creativity Ignited, from 1:30-3 p.m., NECS will offer a more intimate space: coffee and conversation among those who — in various roles — have supported the organization’s programs over the year. NECS founder and director Ridvan Idara noted in her speech last year that children are the community’s most valuable treasure. “They are the promise of future generations in the world. If we invest in them, we invest in freedom.”

Six individuals will be honored this year for their work at different levels. In the institutional category, the Rotary Club of Peekskill will receive the Community Service Award. Among adult honorees, Maria Flores will receive the Youth Advocate Award and Renee Kearse will be recognized as Mentor of the Year. Youth awards will go to Theo North (Creativity Award), Alyssa Copland (Emerging Artist Award), and Madeline Cairl (Community Leadership Award).

The program will be hosted by multidisciplinary artist Bria Waterman and author-filmmaker Zia Foxhall. The keynote address will be delivered by Collette V. Smith, founder of Believe in You Inc. and the first Black woman to serve as a coach in the NFL.

In 2023, NECS ran more than 72 programs and served over 600 children, teens, and adults. These efforts were supported by the organization’s sustained commitment to equity through scholarships, subsidies, and discounts designed to ensure accessible programming for all.

For more information about Sunday’s event or about NECS, visit their official website.