by Marie Kauna – EMTV Online, Port Moresby
Life in a prison is very challenging and becomes problematic for many families.
While changing of life becomes a challenge for many individuals in prison, some have positively done so through dedication and commitment. They have seen positive outcomes in their lives.
This is one story that brings the importance of music use in the lives of many men in the prison in Perth, and how music has changed their lives.
Scott Griffiths is a musician from the Australian Hip Hop Group, Downsyde, who teaches participants about Aussie Hip Hop.
Apart from this, Mr Griffiths has conducted a lot of outreaches and educational work in remote communities in and around the country.
As part of his outreach and educational work through the use of music, Mr Griffiths has developed a unique music program called Rap’N’Radio.
The music program has helped many men in a minimum security prison in Perth, South Wandoo Reintegration Facility, Australia.
The music program enables the residents to learn how to write lyrics, scratch on turntables, produce, edit and record music.
For many of these participants, the program was seen as a hope and self-reflection.
According to one participant, he said, “for me it’s like talking to somebody and getting problems off my chest”.
After going through this program, the inmate is due for release soon and says he is looking forward to reuniting with his son. He said the program has helped him imagine a life outside.
Other participants have also seen great changes in their lives through this program.
According to the program developer, the changes he saw in these men who participated is overwhelming and paves way for more work.
The program has produced positive outcomes and has brought in many inmates from other prison facilities.
Wandoo’s Manager, Wendy Sinclair, said Rap’N’Radio was one of the best initiatives at the facility and has given the men the tools to imagine and begin a life outside.
With positive outcome seen from the program, Mr Griffiths looks forward to running similar program in other facilities to help young men in the prison.
