In this post, I’d like to reflect on TAPF’s journey over the past year and where we are going. As I look back on 2020, it’s a blur. It’s hard for me to separate everything that occurred into specific moments. Generally, it’s an emotional response rather than a checklist of things we got done, so I thought it was important to acknowledge TAPF milestones from last year. What are the moments we are grateful for from 2020? How did this impact TAPF and shape how we move forward?
Globally, 2020 is going to be recalled for generations to come. Now, as we are just seven days into 2021, we have already seen another remarkable event in history, the storming of the U.S. Capitol. We are living in “interesting times” and it’s our choice how we view it. How do you see it: as a curse or an adventure?
Transformation: Liberty Leadership to The Aspiring Phoenix Foundation
Our learning community left its Middle River campus due to COVID-19 protocol in mid-March 2020. The transition from in-person learning to virtual learning went smoothly since our learner’s are accustomed to participating virtually whenever they travel or need to work from home. I was really impressed by their adaptability. They had to use that character trait again when they “unlocked the zones” of our current location in Bel Air, MD. By contributing to the organization, design, and cleaning protocols, the Phoenixes have taken ownership of their Studios. TAPF culture is centered around building relationships and staying curious, strong foundations for a passionate, lifelong learner.
Take-off: Highlights of 2020
Challenges offer opportunities for new approaches. We have some incredible successes despite the pandemic, declining economy, and political unrest. Our focus remains on empowering learners to find their callings through experiences, reflecting on “failing forward”, and applying their strengths in a real-world context. So far, in our Apprentice Studio, some Phoenixes have had apprenticeships with CORE Design Group (architecture), Processus Group (technology), and a local farm.
Originally, our 1st Annual Baltimore County Children’s Business Fair (BC CBF) at THE AVENUE @ White Marsh was scheduled for late June 2020, however we needed to pivot since the pandemic forced us to reschedule the date for September. Instead of forfeiting the opportunity, we asked the registered participants if they would be part of our MD Children Chamber of Commerce’s (MD CCoC) Virtual Marketplace. The young business owners were able to gain first-hand experience on rethinking their business strategies, get advice from local small business owners, and assistance setting up their online stores.
Because the young entrepreneurs did so well at the in-person BC CBF, THE AVENUE @ White Marsh offered space for our “Short-N-Sweet” holiday pop-up shop for, where members of our MD CCoC sold their handmade products, ranging from crocheted stuffed animals, cocoa bombs, coffee and teas to jewelry, painted light switch plates, and beauty products. During the 3-day event, the eight young entrepreneurs generated over $4100 and almost 170 transactions while adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines and safety protocols.
Other Phoenixes are exploring their interests in coding and virtual reality by creating programs for online Dungeons and Dragons campaigns and Oculus meeting rooms. It’s wonderful to witness the children finding ways to explore their interests, apply their core skills knowledge in a real-world setting, and collaborate with others to improve their original idea. Our learners and learning model was featured in articles on Out of Eden Learn’s blog. As a Venture, we have come a long way from January 2020.
Future visions: New year, main goal
What does 2021 have in store for TAPF? Our main goal is to identify our future/final campus destination, purchase it, and prepare our new nest. We understand that we need space to grow our Venture into an Odyssey. Until now, we have been intentional about keeping our community small. As the COVID-19 vaccine is more widespread, we will refocus on our Audition process.
A new year offers endless possibilities. As my Fellow Travelers on this Journey, I renew my pledge to trust, serve, and respect you. Personally, I’m curious about what lies ahead and am excited about the adventure.
The Aspiring Phoenix Foundation 