Meet Selena

I have been an artist for as long as I can remember. Always aware of the beauty in our surroundings, as well as in each person, I believe that we are all creators, we just use different mediums! As an art teacher, I help others to unlock their creative potential and activate their right brain, enhancing vital skills like problem solving and critical thinking.

 

In addition to the belief that our creative natures are essential to cultivate, wellbeing in general is my passion. As a teacher of the arts in high school, I noticed that there was a need for students to learn about the power they have to create their own happiness and resilience. The Art and Science of Wellbeing is a high school elective course that I have created to help students learn how to manage their inner lives in order to achieve balance and awareness of their emotions and health both physically and emotionally. I was never a fan of the way school promotes mass conformity, and the phrase, "when you get into the real world..." directed at the youth has always rubbed me the wrong way. Of course young people are already part of the real world! They should be included as contributors as well because they have value to add to the world because of who they are and what they can do. It is well known that people need a sense of purpose in order to thrive.

 

This is why I am so excited to be part of Youth Inspired. I have always imagined a program where kids can be connected with mentors on their own timeline, not just because they are 18 or have achieved some imaginary benchmark set by society. Lets get them actively building their dreams today, this real world needs them and their passion!

 

I believe that we must nurture the youth as our future leaders if we want to see real change in the world. I believe youth hold the keys and solutions to many of the problems that we face in the world today. If we nurture their creativity, their originality, their voices and their expression, then we can create the ripple effect of change for good worldwide.

 

Lets Make Believe!

Play is the most ancient and sacred form of learning and I know that part of my mission is to help people tap into their creative selves with a sense of play and purpose.