Under our BODIES initiative, we create space for the exchange and development of unseen talents around us. We provide opportunities for young talents to grow, focusing on self-sufficiency and resilience. Our aim is to facilitate connections among groups of young people through creativity and to offer a platform for those who have yet to receive adequate recognition or who are unfamiliar with existing infrastructure. We specifically focus on youth engaged in and seeking to further their skills in hip-hop culture across various disciplines such as dance, music, photography, and film. Our activities span different levels:
-> Weekly ‘Open Studios’ in Groningen: These sessions offer a low-threshold opportunity for young people to exchange and learn about music and dance. Each week, we hold a 1.5-hour music workshop and a 1.5-hour dance workshop, led by members of our team, including DJs, dancers, composers, and producers. We collaborate with Roodkopje, a hip-hop event held bi-monthly at Simplon.
-> Professional development: Some of the youth we encounter aspire to more than just meeting others; they seek to develop professionally. For these individuals, we work towards a presentation at the Jonge Harten Festival (STAGE) in the fall. Over several weekends, a maker associated with us and/or Jonge Harten will work with this group. We strive for a diverse mix of backgrounds, knowledge, and skills among the participants.
-> Future collaboration: In 2026, X_YUSUF_BOSS will join forces with theater group De Steeg to create a production aimed at promoting social interaction and mental health among young people. This project will focus specifically on MBO (secondary vocational education) students, aiming to break down social barriers through art and culture. Additionally, we will collaborate with Noorderpoort to develop talent development programs for MBO students in the province of Groningen
-> Urban Arts development trajectory: Each year, we support one creator through an Urban Arts development trajectory with the FCP. These are emerging creators from our network, often from previous collaborations, or members of our artistic team (dancers, musicians, videographers). We provide artistic and business guidance and lead their application process. In the past, we have worked with Juersson Hermanus (dancer/choreographer) and Salman Dirir (dancer/videographer). We are currently preparing projects with Ser Sebico (dancer/DJ) and Jooz (MC, musician).