Johnny's Story- 24th Street Theatre Board Intern and a Meeting Planning Specialist at The Capital Group Companies

Growing up in my Hispanic family in Los Angeles California, art was not a prominent topic at the dinner table. My parents had always instilled in me the value of hard work and integrity, with high hopes that coming to this country would give me a better future. I feel a great sense of gratitude toward them for giving me the opportunity to have experiences that were not possible for them, like attending school and getting a higher education.

As I entered my middle school year, I was hit by unexpected personal events, which included my non-English speaking parents both being diagnosed with cancer. From being in a position where my friends, my education, and my future career path were my primary focus, this new hurdle became life changing.

My life quickly focused on their well-being as well as their health and financial needs, and less about my future and what was ahead of me. All I wanted to do was get back to a moment where everything was "ok" again. I couldn't find much motivation in myself to work toward my own future and felt very alone during a time in my youth that was already very confusing. The whole world felt like it fell on my shoulders; that is until divine intervention came my way-literally "Devine."

Debbie Devine, 24th STreet Theatre's Artist Director, changed my life. At that time, Debbie was the drama teacher at my middle school. Our class quickly became a place where each student felt safe and that their ideas and opinions mattered-we could all contribute our own ideas and explore our creative autonomy without hesitation. There was not a right or wrong way we could express ourselves. We could always be genuine without being afraid of the judgment of others. As cliché as it may sound, she saved me. She came into my life at the moment when everything felt uncertain. In addition to the freedom to express myself in drama class, she encouraged me to take part in various volunteering opportunities. Prior to these opportunities, I had never had anyone give me so much individual responsibility. She helped me to build confidence in myself and taught me the integrity of creativity as a means of communication and social building.

My experiences in class and volunteering helped to bring out my full potential as a working and artistic individual. It also completely changed my perspective on life and the dreams I have for myself. The arts gave me confidence, leadership and critical thinking skills that I have incorporated into my everyday life, including social interaction, communication, and cultural understanding.

10 years later, on the board of 24th STreet Theatre, I have a chance to fulfill a life-long dream: to be a helping hand to others, to serve as an example and to investigate more ways of introducing people into the arts. 24th STreet Theatre is a place that encourages young people to find their own voice and creatively seek modes of expression that allow them to feel safe. From my own experience, having this type of encouragement and "safe place" at a young age, goes a long way in allowing each individual to find their true potential. I am thrilled to be in a position where I can help others in the same way that I was, many years ago.

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