'Creative courses on my doorstep saved my life'

Beverley Mavin, a 69-year-old former teacher, experienced a significant life change when she lost her job during the pandemic. She had dedicated her career to teaching English as a foreign language at the Cambridge Academy of English in Girton. However, when the school closed its doors due to the lockdown, Beverley found herself in a difficult situation. The sudden loss of her job was a 'terrible shock' for her, leaving her feeling lost and unsure of what to do next. She explained, 'I hadn't wound down to retiring, it was just overnight and it was a terrible shock. I didn't know what to do with myself. ' This feeling of uncertainty is something many people can relate to, especially during challenging times. Fortunately, Beverley's daughter discovered a leaflet about a free origami class being held at a local church. Intrigued, Beverley decided to give it a try. She described the experience as life-changing, stating, 'It saved my life - sometimes I need a reason to get out of bed in the morning and it kickstarts me, it gives me structure. ' This newfound purpose helped her regain a sense of normalcy and joy in her life. After the origami class, she went on to explore other creative courses, including drama and creative writing. To her surprise, she found herself embracing her creative side, something she had never considered before. She proudly shared, 'Everyone is amazed, and I am amazed as well because yes, I am now creative. ' This transformation highlights the power of creativity and how it can positively impact our lives. The Cambridge Community Arts organization plays a vital role in providing these opportunities for individuals like Beverley. They offer a variety of classes across 48 venues in the area, many of which are free or have waived fees for those who qualify. Their mission is to improve health and well-being through creative expression. Emily Jolley, the chief executive of Cambridge Community Arts, emphasized the importance of creating a supportive environment for adults to explore their creativity. She stated, 'We create safe, welcoming spaces where adults can explore their creativity and build confidence. ' This commitment to fostering creativity and connection is essential, especially for those who may feel isolated or uncertain about their future. Beverley's story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of art and the importance of community support in times of need.