Devonta Ravizee:
Transforming Birmingham through the 5 Lil’ Penguins Project
By Carey Fountain
• 5 minute read
Southern Artists for Social Change awardee Carey Fountain writes about fellow awardee Devonta Ravizee.
In the vibrant city of Birmingham, Alabama, Devonta T. Ravizee (ravizeenation.com) is on a mission to inspire and uplift his community through his transformative 5 Lil’ Penguins project. This initiative goes beyond traditional art forms, strategically targeting critical issues within Birmingham’s Black communities to spark social and economic change.
A Vision Rooted in Experience
Ravizee’s journey began in childhood, where his natural artistic inclinations were nurtured through literature, music, dance, drawing, film, pottery, and painting. For over 14 years, he has harnessed these talents to create art that resonates deeply with the human experience. “My artistic background gives me the ability to have an extremely unique approach when creating art,” he reflects.
The 5 Lil’ Penguins project was born out of a song Ravizee wrote, which quickly gained traction and evolved into a viral music video. From there, the project expanded into a TV show (now streaming on Prime Video and Fawesome), an educational curriculum called Patchwork, and community panels known as Black Night.
“The project aims to illuminate the many commonplace cataclysms that occur in Birmingham’s Black communities,” Ravizee explains. “By shedding light on these challenges and opportunities, we hope to inspire social and economic change, allowing the community to take an active role in bringing about this much-needed transformation.”
The 5 Lil’ Penguins project started with a song Ravizee wrote, which was then turned into this short film and music video. After its viral success, Ravizee expanded the project into a TV show.
The Power of Art and Community
Ravizee’s dedication to his community is palpable. He has created safe spaces for panel discussions, collaborated with local schools to involve students, and encouraged community members to showcase their artistic talents. His goal is to foster a sense of ownership and empowerment among Birmingham’s residents.
“Through the many efforts of our project, we hope to decrease the murder rate and increase economic wellness in Birmingham’s Black communities,” Ravizee says. The impact is measured not just in numbers, but in the personal growth and professional flourishing of those involved.
One powerful story involves a young man deeply entrenched in gang activities. Through his participation in the 5 Lil’ Penguins TV show, he found a new path. When he faced legal challenges, the judge recognized his involvement with the project and offered him probation, allowing him to continue working towards a positive future.
Overcoming Adversity with Resilience
Ravizee’s journey has not been without challenges. A devastating house fire destroyed much of the project’s footage, but his resilience and faith have kept him moving forward. “We overcame them by continuing,” he says simply, embodying a spirit of perseverance.
His personal story is one of overcoming profound adversity. As a child, Ravizee endured trauma that left deep emotional scars. It wasn’t until he was 21 that he first spoke about his experiences, sharing his story with a classroom of students. This act of bravery not only began his healing process but also empowered others to confront their own struggles.
“Finding my purpose was a journey,” Ravizee shares. “I always had inklings of what I was here for, but it wasn’t until I uncovered my family’s history in the Civil Rights Movement that everything clicked. I realized I was meant to be someone who encourages change for the Black community.”
A Multifaceted Approach to Change
The 5 Lil’ Penguins project is divided into three interconnected parts:
The TV Show
An artistic piece that entertains and educates, highlighting systemic issues in Birmingham.
Patchwork
An educational curriculum that teaches students about Black history and inspires them to become changemakers.
Black Night
Community panels that address critical issues and foster dialogue between residents and local leaders.
Each component serves a unique purpose, yet they all work together to achieve Ravizee’s overarching goal: to inspire and facilitate real, lasting change within Birmingham’s Black communities.
Measuring Success
Success for the 5 Lil’ Penguins project is measured in both tangible and intangible ways. Ravizee looks at how the lives of participants have improved since joining the project. Stories of personal transformation, professional opportunities, and newfound confidence are testament to the project’s impact. The project has also expanded its reach by being picked up on Amazon Prime and streaming internationally!
For example, Ravizee’s cinematographer secured a job offer from a major company because of his work on the project. Cast members have also gained employment and other opportunities, showcasing the project’s ability to open doors and change lives.
Advice for Aspiring Community Artists
Ravizee’s advice to other artists is simple yet profound: “Find your purpose, and pursue it. With God, everything is possible.” He emphasizes the importance of creating art with meaning and staying connected to one’s community.
Ravizee’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and community. His work with the 5 Lil’ Penguins project not only transforms lives but also brings hope and inspiration to Birmingham’s Black communities. As he continues to expand his project, Ravizee remains focused on his mission to illuminate and inspire, proving that true transformation begins from within.
About Devonta Ravizee
Devonta Ravizee is musician, producer, and filmmaker based in Birmingham, Alabama. He is also a member of the fourth cohort of NPN’s Southern Artists for Social Change program. Learn more about Ravizee and his work at ravizeenation.com.
About Carey Fountain
Carey Fountain is a multidisciplinary artist, musician, and cultural strategist based in Alabama, known for transforming conversations into interactive art. As the founder of Vibes & Virtues, he merges music, visual art, and community engagement to inspire dialogue and social change. Fountain’s work – from his self-produced hip-hop/gospel-inspired music projects to civic art initiatives – challenges norms and uplifts new perspectives. He currently serves as Director of Programs & Partnerships at Selma’s Foot Soldiers Park, designing creative programs that honor history and empower communities. Whether through soulful music performances, thought-provoking card games, or public art installations, Carey Fountain strives to leave the world more positive and connected through art.
Photo: Amarr Croskey for Birmingham Times.
