Sefora Sam

(out)Growing Pains is a poetic and musical piece about the residual energy that lingers in your body after going through trauma. An energy that sometimes surfaces and at other times is latent. Once you are aware of it, what do you do with it and what meaning does it have? How do you learn to deal with something that gnaws at you from time to time, with no discernible pattern? Is it a matter of overcoming or rather mastering? (out)Growing Pains is about becoming aware of this energy and at the same time realizing that healing has no end point but is an ongoing journey.

Sefora Sam, also known as “Sesa,” is a spoken word poet, author and performer, from Antwerp. Sesa draws inspiration from life’s small and big moments. She is known for her sincere, vulnerable and brutally honest introspection through poetry. Her superpower transforms heartbreak, insecurity and childhood trauma into love, growth and self-acceptance. Sesa is the author of several literary works, including the poetry collections “The Thrill of Victory” (2016), “The Break Free” (2020) and the workbook “Rose Quartz” (2019).

She graced many stages, accompanied by talented musicians, including the Forest, De Roma, Arenberg, Bourlaschouwburg, De Singel, Viernulvier, C O R S O, Théâtre National, Decoratelier, etc. In addition to performances, Sesa gives spoken word workshops in various schools and organizations, such as Trill, Boeh, Fameus and the Antwerp Conservatory. In 2022, Sesa founded “Break Free Babes,” a community for women that provides a platform for collective healing through the practice and experience of art. By sharing her poetry and creating a healing space, Sesa aims to create a community that feels less isolated and grows together.

Concept & Performance: Sefora “Sesa” Sam // Musical Direction & Musical Composition: Alex H. Smith // Vocal Composition & Vocals: Abigaille Vungu // Vocal Coaching: Julie Daems // Outside Eyes: Sophie De Vries // Styling: Lotus // Artistic Advice: Anaku // Sound Mixing & Mastering: Alex H. Smith // With Support Of Mestizo Arts Platform/Wipcoop, Rataplan & The Studio.

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