>> Kady Savard
The Youth Jam grew out of my early experiences in the music scene. As a young, uncertain singer, I found confidence through Musical Youth Victoria, a grassroots initiative led by Randy Austin and Geoffrey Bucove. It offered local artists instrumental backing and a place to be heard—without grants or government support. Those early shows marked a turning point for me, and I still share footage from them as a reminder of how far I’ve come.
After Randy’s passing last fall, I felt a deep urge to continue what he helped create. I’d pitched a revival of the concept to various non-profits, but it wasn’t until a conversation with Mila—while discussing my FernFest hosting duties—that things clicked. She immediately said, “Why not do it at the Fernwood Community Centre?”
That simple suggestion launched the next chapter. We added a performance at FernFest to wrap the program, with community support from people like Nathan Shelby on sound and help from the City of Victoria and the My Great Neighbourhood Grant. Mila also guided me through the grant writing process.
Music improv teaches powerful skills: collaboration, confidence, communication, and belonging. Especially post-COVID, I saw how needed this was for youth who’d missed vital years of connection. The goal was to give them space to grow, explore, and shine.
Watching them thrive has been the most rewarding part—and the hardest, knowing it’s temporary. I’m now seeking long-term funding to keep it going year-round.
I’d love to see programs like this across the city. If it inspires you, take the idea and run with it. And if you want help starting something similar, I’m here.
Catch the Youth Jam Sessions band, Fern Friends, at 12:45 pm on the Big Fernwood Stage, at FernFest on Saturday, June 14.
