“The STRIVE Initiative has been one of the most important influences in my life ever since David first convinced me to watch Kanye’s Netflix documentary. From that moment on, STRIVE felt different from anything I had ever been part of. Dave, Jess, and Duncan became more than mentors—they became like family. The atmosphere they create is full of support, love, and real encouragement. Everyone there truly wants to see you grow, move forward, and achieve whatever goals you set for yourself.

As I’ve grown into young adulthood and recently graduated, the bonds I built through STRIVE have made a huge impact on my development. Adjusting to the adult world isn’t easy, but having STRIVE behind me has helped me stay focused and confident.

Through STRIVE, I’ve had opportunities I never imagined for myself, like connecting with industry professionals, recording in real studio sessions to support the music career I’m working toward, and even traveling out of state to expand my experiences. I honestly don’t think I would’ve had the confidence to take steps like that if David hadn’t constantly pushed me to be resourceful and look beyond the environments I was used to.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that being an asset, showing up, being reliable, and working hard in the areas you care about, is the key to success. I see that lesson showing up in my life every day.
Now, as I’ve had the chance to work with younger STRIVE students, I notice the same hope, passion, and drive in them that I felt when I first started. Knowing they trust us, feel safe with us, and feel like they belong is exactly why I keep coming back each year. STRIVE made a difference in my life, and now it’s giving me the chance to make that same difference for the youth coming up after me.”