Marlow Wyatt: Girl Blue Project
“THE GIRL BLUE PROJECT” CONTINUES TO THRIVE IN L.A., Wired from MassAppealNews.com
LOS ANGELES – Knowing the issues teens face today, girls in particular, actress and playwright Marlow Wyatt has taken it upon herself to be proactive; rather than reactive. Wyatt, a Kansas City native, is the founder and director of “The Girl Blue Project” based in urban Los Angeles. By empowering teenage girls to value self worth, Wyatt has captured the love and respect of the L.A. community. Recently, Wyatt took time to discuss “The Girl Blue Project” and other issues with Mass Appeal editor Wayne Hodges. Their Q&A went as follows:
Hodges: Marlow, I must begin by saying I’m a big fan of your organization. The things you’re doing for the young women of Los Angeles are both noble and necessary. Can you talk a little bit about the inspiration behind “The Girl Blue Project?” How did you get started?
Marlow: Well, I’m old school and a stickler for education. I find it sad we don’t value education in this country like we used to. I started this program for teenage girls because as a woman I can relate to our struggles. “The Girl Blue Project” offers a wonderful curriculum that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My students write every single day. They write poetry, stories, etc. I believe writing is so important because it forces us to think and exercise our minds.
Hodges: You mentioned writing as a major part of the curriculum. And I think that’s wonderful. But I’m also enamored with the courses you offer in performing arts. As an actress and writer, I know this is your passion. Can you shed some light on these programs?
Marlow: Yes, I’m an actress and writer. And the first thing I tell the ladies is you can’t know music without understanding math. So we spend a lot of time on mathematics. Yoga, self-awareness and life skill classes are also part of the curriculum.
Hodges: Marlow, it’s no secret fathers are missing from the home. This problem is certainly not exclusive to the urban community. But it’s a problem nonetheless. Do you get the sense many of your students are looking for father figures? Mainly those living in single parent homes.
Marlow: I wouldn’t say they’re looking for just fathers. I think they’re looking for adult figures. It takes more than mom and dad to raise a child. We need aunts, uncles and other responsible adults to step up too. The old saying “it takes a village to raise a child” is very true.
Hodges: Can you take a moment to describe some of the drawbacks within the organization? I know you’re managing the program solo. Are you receiving enough family/community support?
Marlow: I don’t have any kids, but running this program requires a lot of emotional work. I only work this job in the Summer. The rest of the year I’m busy acting and writing plays. So, sometimes I get stretched a little thin. I certainly welcome more support. I find it irritating when parents drop off their kids just to get rid of them for a couple hours. I want to see more parents get involved. I believe we’ll accomplish much more that way.
Marlow Wyatt, an actress and playwright in Los Angeles, is the founder and director of “The Girl Blue Project.” To learn more about her organization, click here. She welcomes your comments at info@thegirlblueproject.org.
July 20th, 2010 at 1:14 pm
Awesome article. I just wish she would have started the program in her native town. We need programs like that here. Seems like many people go off and do well within the entertainment sector but instead of giving back to their native community, they start up programs in their new place of residence. When you make it, don’t forget where you came from. If I make it to where I’m trying to go, I’m going to use my powers for good and start up a program for the KC area cuz our youth are in desperate need as well. But again, excellent article and at least she’s doing something positive. J
July 20th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
marlow, just want ot say I respect what you have done for the beautiful young women of our society. this is a wonderful organization and you should be very proud. I forwarded this link to my friends and wish you continued support. way to hold it down for the sistas! Good bless
July 20th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
great article! would love to see this program in kansas city
July 20th, 2010 at 2:44 pm
I want to introduce to my church i am involved with the youth at my church this sounds like something great can i please get contact infomation.
July 20th, 2010 at 2:49 pm
Absolutely! To reach Marlow send her an email at info@thegirlblueproject.org. Or you can visit her website at http://thegirlblueproject.org/
July 20th, 2010 at 3:05 pm
Marlow please KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!
We could really use you in KCK but it is still nice to see you doing something positive for the young ladies. You represent our community well.
July 21st, 2010 at 3:19 pm
good interview — i like the organization
July 22nd, 2010 at 4:44 pm
GREAT!!!!!!!!!