Welcome to Mission 1477, YEBO’s statewide storytelling initiative centering and celebrating the voices of people in our communities. The theme of this Mixtape is Monsters — stories about fear and resilience.

Our partner for this installment is Vocal Justice, an organization that inspires and prepares Black and Brown youth to be lifelong leaders for liberation. Though based in Oakland, California, Vocal Justice’s mission echoes YEBO’s values of authenticity, self-determination, and community. The alignment was undeniable, so we brought the mixtape on the road to the Golden State. 

This episode features stories of vulnerability, identity, and truth from student leaders, educators, and changemakers who are finding strength in their fears and power in their voices. 

Hosted by Isaura Maria, The Growing Storyteller

Recorded by Cory Montalvo, Chief Plug

Edited & Mixed by Luis Antonio Perez, El Productor

Coached by Cristina Chacon, The Amplifier

Recorded live in Kinfolx Cafe, Oakland, CA

Special Thanks to the Margulf Foundation for supporting this collaboration

The Stories:

(1:38) Alexis Corazon confronts instability as the monster in her life and finds home through purpose and connection.

(9:41) Michael Borne returns to the mixtape to reflect on how rejection helped him reimagine his superpower.

(16:53) Nayeli Cuevas shares a heartfelt story about a drifting relationship and how distance can deepen resilience.

(24:15) Shawon Jackson opens up about the transformative power of truth, friendship, and releasing the weight of secrets.

Links:

Vocal Justice

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