Ricky Strickler, a graduate from Temple's Master's of Urban Education program, is breaking down barriers to music education for Philadelphia's youth. The Aspiring Young Artists (AYA) Project is an example of how to create an intersection between education, music, and the community. This student-centered initiative helps young high school musicians across three Philly schools develop their talents through one-on-one mentorship with adults in the community who can help cultivate and refine their musical abilities. The AYA Project focuses on empowerment through music and allowing students to move into the creative realm of songwriting and production.