As part of opening week at the Obama Presidential Center, former First Lady Michelle Obama and two-time GRAMMY Award-winning Nigerian artist Tems made a surprise appearance at a songwriting workshop, inspiring a group of young women with an unforgettable afternoon centered on creativity, leadership, and self-expression.
Held on June 16 inside the Obama Presidential Center‘s state-of-the-art Media Suite, the workshop welcomed 15 high school students from After School Matters programs and organizations within The Obama Foundation‘s Girls Opportunity Alliance Network. Led by After School Matters teaching artist Me’Chelle Robinson, professionally known as Darkhoneeey, the session introduced songwriting as a powerful tool for storytelling, collaboration, confidence, and personal growth.
The event offered an early glimpse into the educational opportunities that will be available through the Obama Presidential Center, while reinforcing The Obama Foundation‘s commitment to empowering young women and expanding access to creative and leadership opportunities through the Girls Opportunity Alliance.
Throughout the workshop, participants worked in small groups to write original songs and poems inspired by their own experiences and perspectives. The collaborative process encouraged them to develop their voices while strengthening skills rooted in creativity, communication, conviction, and self-confidence.
The experience took an unexpected turn when Tems surprised the students, sharing words of encouragement and reflecting on her own journey from self-taught artist in Lagos to one of music’s most celebrated global stars. She also introduced participants to her Leading Vibe Initiative (LVI), an organization dedicated to addressing the music industry’s gender gap by providing aspiring young women with mentorship, educational resources, and access to industry professionals.
Inspired by the support she wished had been available early in her own career, Leading Vibe Initiative helps young women across Africa and around the world pursue careers as singers, songwriters, producers, and other creative professionals. During the discussion, Tems encouraged the students to trust their instincts, continue developing their craft, and recognize their potential not only as artists but as future leaders within the creative industries.
Following the students’ presentations, Michelle Obama made a surprise appearance to celebrate their work alongside Tems. Together, they listened as participants shared their original songs and poems before offering words of encouragement, urging the young creators to continue using their talents, creativity, and unique voices to inspire positive change in their communities.
The workshop reflected one of the central missions of the Obama Presidential Center: creating opportunities for young people to discover their passions, develop their skills, and build the confidence to lead. Through partnerships with organizations like After School Matters and initiatives including the Girls Opportunity Alliance, the Center aims to become a lasting hub for creativity, civic engagement, education, and community connection for future generations.
The inspiring afternoon concluded with Michelle Obama, Tems, and the workshop participants gathering for a group photo inside the Media Suite, commemorating a memorable experience that celebrated the transformative power of music, mentorship, and creative expression.
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