I didn’t think I’d be selected, honestly. When I submitted my application to NextGen:Indigenous, I thought well at least I can say I tried. When I got the news that I was being awarded this opportunity, my heart began to race.
Was I ready to get back into interviewing?
Crap, I forgot those tricks I had learned in Audition.
What was it? Space bar for a marker? No, that’s not it.
What if I fail?
What if Patti is too busy?
What if Taylar can’t be there with me?
Is this going to be like my past experiences?
I am happy to say that this was nothing like my past experiences in capturing and uplifting the voices of my community.
I was fully supported from the day I was selected even if I didn’t realize it at the time.
Though my hands were sweaty and my voice shook, Patti’s never did and Taylar was right by my side and stayed with me to talk me through all my nervousness.
The editing process didn’t make me break down and I learned there is room for feedback! Who knew? Not me. Thank you, Traci.
The audition training was phenomenal. Selena and Abby are truly powerhouses!
The illustrators? Emily was able to capture exactly what I was hoping to uplift from Patti’s words.
Corrine, thank you for rooting for me and supporting me as I fought with the wind and competed with a car wash.
This experience allowed me to connect with so many new faces and reconnect with some I hadn’t seen in a while. It took me out of my comfort zone and into the out. Somewhere I haven’t really been since the pandemic. I got pretty comfortable in my little bubble.
Thank you all for allowing me the space to learn from you and alongside you.
I look forward to listening and reading everyone’s pieces.
Guess what, y’all? WE DID IT!!!