Melding creativity with the spirit: How the sharing of individual talents can build stronger communities 

Families in Boroondara, Melbourne have witnessed how spaces infused with creativity, kindness and connection can nurture a true spirit of community particularly when individuals harness and share their own specific talents and capacities. 

In April, local jewellery designer Afsoon Roshan facilitated a special program for young people aged between eight to 12 through her Baha’i-inspired studio Lua. Exploring the theme of kindness, the program provided the chance for participants to design their very own kindness-inspired necklaces and bracelets, sharing in the knowledge from Afsoon’s years in the fashion and design industry as well as her work as a teacher of Baha’i spiritual education classes.

Supplying special chains, beads, and tools for the workshop, Afsoon says the program allowed children to explore their personal connection to the quality being explored while harnessing their creativity. 

“The energy in the room was contagious as the children worked on their creations, inspired by ideas of building strong friendships, showing care for one another, and nurturing a sense of community,” she said. 

“It has always been my aspiration to create something meaningful that could positively impact the community.”

The program of events included a storytelling session, which highlighted the transformative power of kindness and showcased how the “smallest thoughtful acts can ripple outward, touching lives and creating a sense of well-being”. 

“As the workshop ended, each child left not only with their handmade jewellery but also with a theme card, a sticker, and a special pouch to keep their treasures safe, gentle reminders of the lessons they’d embraced,” Afsoon said. 

“The spirit of the day didn’t end there. The parents of these wonderful children surprised us with a delightful lunch at a local park afterwards, expressing their gratitude for the opportunity their children had to come together, learn, and explore in such a meaningful way. Conversations flowed naturally, filled with excitement about future themes we could explore. Their thoughtfulness and generosity added an extra layer of warmth, making the day even more special.”

Afsoon said the community service initiative “embodied the spirit of unity and creativity”. 

“It was a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when people come together with a common purpose.”

Lua Studio was born in 2019. The name was inspired by devoted Baha’i Louisa Moore Getsinger who was known for her compassion and fearless determination.