Aitina Fareed-Cooke is The Creative Arts Strategist
My life is a creative adventure where I explore and share human stories through visual and literary arts provoking dialogue meant to ignite thought and expand perspectives.
My desire is to shatter stereotypes and cultivate unity by sharing human experiences that nourish the 5 determinants of health. -Aitina Fareed-Cooke
Ways I Work
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As the founder of Get Fokus'd Productions, I leverage the creative arts to manage and direct visual projects in collaboration with professional and emerging artists, helping organizations and entrepreneurs showcase their community impact through digital storytelling.
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As a creative writer and performer, I use literary arts to share ideas that encourage thought and inspire conversations to promote empathy and unity in the community. I serve as the Buffalo Poet Laureate, speaker, and national recording artist.
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As a creative consultant and educator, I conduct one-on-one sessions and group workshops that support ideation for community organizations. I work in collaboration with clients to develop actionable plans focused on arts, education, entrepreneurship, youth development, and connecting creatives with the community.
Projects
Schedule a Creative Consultation
Aitina Fareed-Cooke offers unique opportunities to dive deep into your creative aspirations and uncover the clarity you desire. During this engaging and stimulating consultation, you will gain invaluable insights and actionable strategies to propel your projects forward with confidence and purpose.
My Story
I was told at a young age that I would be a "failure to thrive" as a result of my biological mother's substance use disorder. Due to addiction and substance misuse, our mother passed away. I refuse to be defined by a system that diagnosed me as “emotionally handicapped” and labeled me a “failure to thrive”. Instead, I find solace and empowerment through my faith in God and my voice within the creative arts, which gives me the power to craft my own narrative.
I have designed a creative career which enables me to educate others, generate revenue for emerging and professional artists, showcase exhibitions, perform, present and speak about my journey from foster care to freedom through the creative arts. I am the product of investments that were made into the youth of the Eastside of Buffalo. I am proud and privileged to own and share my story. I encourage you to own and share yours too.
Aitina is Buffalo's current Poet Laureate, a National Recording Artist, and the founder of Get Fokus'd Productions (GFP), an award-winning media arts company. For nearly two decades, she has secured grants for community based creative projects, fostering collaboration among various organizations and emerging artists. Over the last few years, her creative strategies lead GFP to generate nearly $500,000 for community projects, with close to 30% supporting hundreds of artists.
Current & Previous Clients & Collaborators
Connect with Me!
Contact
If you are interested in Aitina’s Creative Services, please provide your information, and we will contact you soon. We look forward to connecting with you.