Anna Deshawn

As an extension of UTP we support young entrepreneurs

Anna Deshawn

Age: 26
Bachelors in radio/tv production from Drake University and masters in Communications from Ithaca College.

Partner: Renisha Campbell
Bachelors in Psychology from University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) and masters in Public Health from UIC.

Both Reside: Chicago, Illinois

UTP: So what motivated you to start your own non-profit?

Anna: I've always loved giving back to my community and having a community center was always apart of the plan. When I met my life partner (LP) Renisha, she wanted to start a community center as well, so we decided to do it together. We've blended both of our talents to give back to our community.

UTP: How long has it been founded?

A: April 17, 2009--501c3 May 21, 2010

UTP: How does My World, My Dreams blend public health education and multimedia production to engage communities about living healthy lives?

A: Renisha trains youth to become health ambassadors. Educating them on physical, emotional and sexual health. Once the youth finish the training they are now "health ambassadors" and have the opportunity to train other youth in the city of Chicago. Peer-2-peer education has been a really effective approach for our youth. I can come in and talk about media and how they blend the two to take their message to the world.

UTP: Also what avenues have you gone through to recruit participants?

A: With the youth trainings, the youth running the session are responsible for recruiting 5 youth to participate. We collaborate with organizations and are always calling family/friends. There is a lot of word of mouth as well.

UTP: How difficult or easy was it to become certified as a non-profit?

A: It took about a year to finalize everything. We utilized Loyola's Business Law Clinic, so all of our lawyer fees were free. We only had to pay the filing fees, that was such a blessing. We worked with students who were finishing up their law studies and there was always a faculty member there to advise them along the way.

UTP: Have you had support in your endeavors, if so what has proven to help you the most?

A: I have had support in all my endeavors. Family, friends and other community organizations have proven to provide the most support. I haven't heard a discouraging word from anyone. If they say it behind my back that's on them, lol :)

UTP: How has being in the life affected your position and accomplishments?

A: I live OUT, so out it surprises me sometimes. I have felt the affects of my sexuality on my endeavors. In everything I do, I surround myself with people that are going to support and not tear me down. Not to mention, there are things that I am unwilling to compromise about and living out is one of them.

UTP: Do you support our message, if so why? A: Of course! I'm a designer and media arts specialist, so when an organization is looking to support and encourage young people in the arts I'm all about it. I find that the arts helps me to express my feelings and emotions. Young people need that outlet and you can't always find it in school.

UTP: How do you stay focused and balance in your life?

A: It's hard sometimes because you don't always think people are listening or tuned-in. When I begin to feel that way I turn to prayer, my LP, and some good music.

UTP: Any lasting words you would like to share?

A: I'd like to encourage anyone reading this to use their art to challenge power and affect change.

UTP: How is it being funded and how does someone get in contact with your organization?

A: We are not currently being funded. We've been blessed to collaborate with organizations that are funded. Over the next few months we will be hitting the pavement hard and getting grant apps out. Overall, we fund the organization and make sure it has what it needs.

A: Here are my two favorite quotes that inspire me....

“There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires.” -Nelson Mandela

"First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win." - Mahatma Gandhi