I Know What It Feels Like
I grew up 20-minutes north of Boston, after coming to the United States from the Dominican Republic. Like many young people, I spent years trying to figure out where I fit. I dealt with bullying. I struggled with confidence. I worried about how other people saw me. And there were moments when I desperately wanted someone to tell me that who I was becoming mattered more than what other people thought about me.
A Different Road
Music eventually gave me a sense of identity and direction. It led me to Berklee College of Music in Boston and opened the door to experiences I never imagined as a child.
My professional life later took me into business, finance and creative work. For a while, I thought success meant finding the right career, earning more money and building a comfortable life. But something kept pulling me toward young people.
A Life-Changing Decision!
In 2012, I faced a decision that would change my life.
I had an opportunity with America’s Got Talent in Los Angeles—the kind of opportunity a singer dreams about. At the same time, I was invited to speak to nearly 300 young people at an Orange County juvenile detention facility.
Chase the dream—or follow my heart.
I chose my heart!
That day, in front of those young-misguided eyes but full of potential, I discovered something I’ve carried with me ever since:
"Love is the invisible wire that connects us to our heart's best decisions."
What Students Taught Me
Over the years, I have learned that young people do not need another adult standing in front of them telling them everything they are doing wrong.
They need honest conversations. They need encouragement.
They need someone who respects their intelligence and understands that technology has placed them in a generation that is saturated with information but little structure.
They need simple practical tools they can actually remember when life becomes complicated, which is why my message is based on: Focus, Self-Talk, and Emotions.
"Afterward, students expressed how much they enjoyed the presentation and asked if they could have him back. As a building principal, this is something that I rarely see."
- Principal Tebo @ Somersworth High School, NH