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 the Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF), which provides vital college advising, scholarship access, and financial aid guidance through Future Centers in Denver Public Schools. In this episode, we visit the Future Center at Abraham Lincoln High School, home of the Lancers, where DSF’s work is deeply rooted in the community.
This is a bilingual episode, featuring stories in both Spanish and English from students and alumni navigating identity, family expectations, fear, and personal growth.
Hosted by Cristina Chacon, The Amplifier and 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 Abraham Lincoln High School, Denver, CO
The Stories:
(2:23) Paula Grimaldo overcomes the fear of losing her voice and identity as she navigates life in a new country and rediscovers pride through debate and community.
(7:27) Khris Rivers finds his purpose in the kitchen after a bold Thanksgiving challenge leads to a flavorful future.
(11:12) Karen Varon recalls the terror of growing up amid armed conflict in rural Colombia and how her mother’s promise became the foundation for her goal to uplift the Latino community in Denver.
(15:33) Vivian Bustillos learns that home isn’t a physical place, it’s the love we carry with us. Through memories with her abuela and transitions across countries and campuses, she discovers where she belongs.
(21:06) Joselyn Loya shares the bittersweet story of leaving for college while fearing she’d lose her bond with her little sister.
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