The Wildling was an idea that tapped Megan Kaplan on the shoulder one day—and she knew she had to share it with her sister Mekea Duffy, her storytelling companion since childhood. A professional journalist and a literacy specialist, the sisters took their time piloting, drafting and redrafting The Wildling—a project meant to inspire and activate the natural born storyteller in every single person. Once we know that our lived content is our story and that we can share it out and express it freely, the liberation and wellness that comes from this elemental part of ourselves is magic.

The Wildling was officially hatched in 2018, and became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way kids share and listen, releasing their voices in the world so they can feel their impact and know their worth.

We started by serving students in middle school all over the Twin Cities, and now our reach has traveled nationally and to various age groups and all styles of learners. We have learned that when given the tools and space, stories shared aloud foster personal well-being, empathy, and community. Our hope is to connect youth to their lived experiences and perspectives, show them that these parts of who they are truly matter—inside of themselves and in community with others. We’ve welcomed students from more than 24 different schools so far.

Our evidence-based curriculum includes improv games, writing exercises, meditation, workshopping, and plenty of time to practice telling stories aloud. Our staff to student ratio is 1:2, so participants get plenty of individual coaching. Above all else, we want every Wildling to walk away feeling their voice was heard and their story matters.