Former US First Lady Michelle Obama and Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems surprised 15 high school-aged girls during an intimate songwriting workshop at the newly opened Obama Presidential Center’s Media Suite on June 16, 2026.
The unannounced visit, part of the centre’s landmark opening-week events, brought together participants from After School Matters and the Obama Foundation’s Girls Opportunity Alliance Network for a session led by Chicago teaching artist Me’Chelle Robinson (Darkhoneeey).
The workshop focused on using songwriting for creative expression, storytelling, and building self-confidence.
Tems shared insights from her journey as a self-taught artist from Lagos, encouraging the young women to embrace their voices. She highlighted her Leading Vibe Initiative, which provides resources and mentorship to bridge the music industry’s gender gap.
Michelle Obama listened from the control room before entering to offer advice on managing stage fright. She reminded the girls that she still gets nervous before big moments and that the Center was built for youth to “practice who you want to be.”
The workshop marked the debut of the Media Suite, a digital hub designed for young creators to record music, produce podcasts, and master digital storytelling.
