On April 30th, Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (FACT)’s Downtown East Clinic, Downtown West Clinic, and Downtown Central Clinic hosted their annual Shine Bright Award – an Oscar-style presentation recognizing outstanding client achievements from the past year. Affrica Spence performed spoken word poetry at the event, and was honoured with the Creativity Award for the Downtown Central FACT.
We spoke with Affrica on her thoughts on receiving the award, and what the FACT care has meant to her. We also touched base with her case worker Joy-Ann Perry, on her experience working with Affrica.
What does it mean to you to receive the Creative Award?
Honestly, it really hits me in the feels. Like I mentioned, mental health and celebration felt like an impossibility when I was first diagnosed in 2011. I never imagined that the mental health community would grow into something that could nurture a space this affirming for people like me.
It also feels genuine. Not like a participation award, but something intentional. My case worker, Joy-Ann, has been paying attention, really keeping tabs on my artistic journey, and that kind of care is both flattering and humbling. Especially because sometimes, in other cases, when I’ve shared something it goes in one ear then out the other of the listener or gets buried in case files that never see the light of day after being noted down. Joy-Ann listens, real active listening.
How has the FACT care you received helped you, and what was the experience like working with the FACT team?
FACT has supported me in more ways than I can fully name, but a few things stand out. First, it’s been my team. Mental health can be crippling, and unlike my early years, I don’t feel like I’m facing it alone. I’m not expected to have all the answers; they walk with me while I figure things out.
It’s also been a kind of litmus test. I’m not always the most self-aware, so having FACT, along with my community and family, reflect back where I’m at, whether that’s growth or setbacks, has been grounding.
And most importantly, it’s been a form of safety. Having a diagnosis is already heavy, and the possibility of relapse is always there. Knowing I have support systems in place helps me rest a little easier.
What’s next for you, creatively speaking?
The latest edition of my spoken word poetry project, Voetry, is currently making its rounds through film festivals. After that, it’ll likely live on my website and YouTube. We’re already moving into pre-production for the next edition.
I’ve also started working on a poetry and mental health colouring booklet. I had the chance to experiment with something new last year, and that’s what grew out of it. Now it’s about figuring out distribution and getting it into people’s hands.
Sites:
- affricaspence.com
- thisisvoetry.com
- insta: thisisvoetry
- facebook: voetry
- youtube: voetry
Do you have any messages for those just starting their FACT care?
I understand if the healthcare system has left you with a bitter taste. But goodness exists. Good people exist. Good care exists. I’m living proof of that.
The journey hasn’t been smooth. There have been moments of frustration and disappointment. But finding people who are committed to your thriving, not just your survival, is something special. Especially when you know how deep and dark the mind can go.
