Listen 2020 Review

PLUS ME Project Holds 1st Annual Scholarship Awards—5 Local Students Win!

--Flo S. Jenkins 

Everyone has a story to tell and wants to be heard – and, thankfully, PLUS ME has opened a much-needed platform, from which young people can be heard through the stories they courageously tell.

A packed audience at Listen 2020 was captivated by the touching stories of 5 L.A.-area high school students who opened their hearts and shared riveting portions of their young lives through the stories they told. Kevin Lopez, Daniela Gonzalez, Earl Bumagat, Angie Ayala, and Brandon Isem made history as winners of the PLUS ME Project’s 1st Annual Scholarship Awards. Each received $300. The event, held Friday, January 31st, at the Marlborough School in the Hancock area of Los Angeles, was a high point for PLUS ME visionary—Founder/Executive Director, Richard Reyes, and his team who had worked tirelessly over the course of many months to bring to light powerful stories that so many young people not only wanted to share, but needed to tell, in order to empower themselves and enrich and open the minds and hearts of listeners.  

“I want to make a difference in the world,” said Kevin Lopez of West Adams Prep High School. Kevin had been bullied, had conflict with his father at a young age, and ended up depressed. Thanks to a teacher who listened to his challenges, Kevin received therapy, and his life changed: he has become a “leader, a tutor”, and is a happier, stronger young man.

Daniela, a 16-year old attending School for the Visual Arts & Humanities shared her story of being affected as a 10-year old when her father was diagnosed with a mental disease. “My emotions dwindled,” she said, and worrying over her dad led to depression. In addition, Daniela’s story included being sexually harassed and suicidal. There was light at the end of the tunnel as she met “some angels” who helped her turn her life around. “I’m a helper… strong-minded…and I want to give others the opportunities I didn’t have.”

Earl, a 10th grade student at Downtown Magnets High School, was dealing with hidden emotions, believing no one cared and “began cutting myself…it became a routine.” Thankfully, Earl got the help he needed and now knows his family loves him. His future looks bright as he has overcome negativity and set many great goals.

Angie, a student at Marquez School of Social Justice, shared feelings about being sister to a new sibling as she read her touching poem written for her baby brother. Based on her ability to move an audience with her words, Angie surely has a bright future as a writer if she chooses that route.

Brandon, from Ambassador School of Global Leadership, told his story of self-hatred of his Mayan and Guatemalan heritage, which led to hating others like him.  He has made a 360-degree turn-around after growing to accept and feel proud of himself. Brandon now aspires to be an advocate for his people and many who may be suffering in the immigrant community.

Mr. Reyes launched the PLUS ME Project over 6 years ago “to build confidence in youth through storytelling”. Based on the work he is doing throughout Southern California, and the high praises at this event, he has already succeeded. The non-profit continues to gain prominence and positive recognition as it partners with schools and organizations to help empower youth to develop their confidence by teaching the art of storytelling. Their program model is designed to provide middle and high school students with relatable role models and the necessary tools to help them find their voices, own who they are, and become college and career ready.

This successful event also marked the launching of the PLUS ME Project’s My Story Matters 2.0 Journals, which are vital in guiding students in building and sharing their stories. Proceeds from purchasing the Journal enables PLUS ME to continue helping youth expand their confidence, and essentially their lives, through the art of storytelling.