MEDIA SHIFT 2025 Youth Cohort - Beauty from Within

Updated 1 day ago

Yamalisa is a young woman born in Grand Rapids that attended Western Michigan University, shares her journey with beauty pageants while also being a part of criminal law. Producer London H., of the 2025 Media Shift Youth Cohort, says "I want to inspire younger girls, you don't have to hide who you are in different ways, you can show it in other ways."

Chapters

Introduction by London Hudson (00:00:22)
London Hudson introduces herself as a participant in Media Shift, a storytelling program.

London Hudson, a participant in the Media Shift Storytelling cohorts, introduces herself and mentions her involvement in the program, which focuses on learning the craft of making documentaries, operating cameras, collaborating with others, and editing videos.
Encouragement to Youth (00:00:29)
London advises youth to stay engaged and attentive in their pursuits.

London emphasizes the importance of paying attention and being genuinely engaged in one's activities. She encourages other youth to remain focused and involved in their endeavors to gain the most from their experiences.
Inspiration to Participate (00:00:46)
London shares how her teacher inspired her interest in documentaries and public media.

London recounts how her interest in making documentaries was sparked by her teacher, who noticed her passion for the genre and introduced her to the concept of public media. This encouragement led her to join the Media Shift program.
Interest in Documentary Storytelling (00:01:04)
London discusses her interest in documentaries as a form of storytelling distinct from movies or TV.

London expresses her fascination with documentaries as a unique form of storytelling. She highlights how documentaries offer a different approach to conveying stories compared to traditional movies or television shows, which she finds intriguing.
Inspiring Younger Girls (00:01:18)
London aims to inspire younger girls to express themselves without hiding their true selves.

London talks about her goal to inspire younger girls to be true to themselves and not feel the need to hide their identities. She encourages them to express themselves openly and authentically through various forms of media and storytelling.
Perceptions of Beauty and Connection (00:02:36)
London shares her belief that true beauty lies in words and connections rather than surface appearances.

Discussing her views on beauty, London emphasizes that real beauty is reflected in a person's words and their ability to connect with others. She values deep relationships over superficial appearances, which she believes are more meaningful and beautiful.
Introduction to Yamalisa Rubio Perez (00:03:22)
Yamalisa Rubio Perez introduces herself and mentions background as the eldest of five children.

Yamalisa Rubio Perez introduces herself, noting that she is the eldest of five siblings and acknowledging the responsibilities that come with that role. She briefly mentions educational background and the challenges faced as the oldest child.
Path to Law and Pageants (00:03:33)
Yamalisa describes journey through law and involvement in pageants, highlighting her aspirations.

Shares educational journey at Western Michigan University and work experience at a prosecutor's office and a law firm. Discusses aspiration to attend law school and curiosity-driven entry into pageants, a path she could afford to explore independently.
Impact of Pageants (00:04:28)
Yamalisa reflects on how participating in pageants has helped define identity and role.

Yamalisa discusses how being involved in pageants has influenced personal growth and understanding of role in the world. Reflects on early misconceptions about pageants being superficial and how experiences have revealed the substance and diversity among pageant participants.
Pageant Experiences and Lessons (00:05:11)
Yamalisa shares insights from pageant experiences, highlighting camaraderie and misconceptions.

Jamal describes the camaraderie and unexpected kindness she encountered in pageants, challenging her initial expectations of competition. She notes the diverse backgrounds and accomplishments of participants, which contrast with stereotypes perpetuated by media.
Building Relationships Through Pageants (00:06:02)
Jamal discusses the deep friendships formed through pageant participation and shared experiences.

Jamal emphasizes the meaningful relationships and friendships formed through participating in pageants. He highlights how these connections often extend beyond the pageant itself, leading to lifelong bonds and support networks among participants.
Challenges and Support in Pageants (00:07:00)
Jamal talks about the challenges and emotional aspects of pageants, focusing on mutual support.

Jamal discusses the emotional challenges faced by pageant participants, especially when not advancing to semi-finals. Despite the competitive nature, he notes the strong support system among contestants, who uplift each other through shared understanding of the pressures involved.
Significance of Poise and Representation (00:08:00)
Jamal highlights the importance of poise and self-presentation in pageants and life.

Jamal reflects on the importance of poise and self-presentation, both in pageants and everyday life. He advises on how to carry oneself with confidence and authenticity, allowing others to truly understand and appreciate one's character and intentions.
Message to Young People (00:09:01)
Jamal shares his message to youth about self-discovery and confidence in pageants and life.

Jamal conveys a message to young people about embracing their femininity and being confident in their identity. He stresses the importance of self-discovery and authenticity, encouraging youth to find their true selves and present that to the world confidently.
Coaching and Community Involvement (00:10:12)
Jamal discusses his role in coaching and mentoring young women, emphasizing confidence and poise.

Jamal describes his involvement in coaching young women in pageants, particularly at Western Michigan University. He emphasizes the importance of teaching confidence, poise, and effective communication, helping them navigate their academic and professional journeys.

Media Shift (4 Videos)

Updated 1 day ago

A narrative storytelling project for Media Activism - Documentary - Storytelling