Learn and Lead

Learn and Lead

By Gary Clay

“Until the lion writes his own story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.”

The Soy Autor writing process was developed in collaboration with young people at-risk of, victims of or perpetrators of violence in El Salvador. In 2017, this innovative program expanded into Chicago to create tangible high quality opportunities that nourish the minds, expand the voices and share the personal truths of young people who have long been underserved and underestimated.

Through the process of drafting, revising, illustrating and publishing memoirs, the Authors’ Circle members develop reflection, critical thinking, camaraderie, conflict resolution and positive self-projection.This Roseland Authors’ Circle has been based at the Youth Peace Center in Roseland, as part of Chicago CRED program.

In collaboration with:

Learn and Lead Gary Clay

I am from the Englewood area, from broken homes and lost dreams.

I am from the heart of Englewood, full of violence, sadness, and childhood memories.

I am from a place where your attitude can resemble a rose or a daisy, but if not being taken care of your life can go bad just like flowers.

I am from family bbq’s and enjoying time with family, from Massey’s and Taylor’s.

I’m from applying street knowledge to help you in your career or job and enjoying life at very dull times, from you’re a very quiet and crazy person.

I’m from the streets where we were alone at a young age so we had to learn very fast to survive.

I’m from 69th and Normal, the southside of Chicago, chicken and noodles, from the family that learns when they’re young to be very independent men and women.