Journey 
Did you know that, since 2012, the first Tuesday of December has been known as Giving Tuesday? What’s it actually about, you may ask? Giving Tuesday is a global movement founded on pillars that encourage humanity to give back to their communities and the world at large, however that may look like for you.
As a youth-powered voice, True Star Media, co-founded by DeAnna McLeary Sherman and Na-Tae’ Thompson, not only needs but deserves the support that Giving Tuesday was made for. Giving Tuesday is more than a hashtag; it’s a call to action, but a chance to invest in voices that matter. True Star Media empowers young people to craft their own narratives, cultivate their idea of greatness, and today, you can help amplify this organization.
True Star’s very own campaign, “Our Voice, Activated!” is the declaration to stand with Chicago’s young people as they are on the front lines of documenting the world as it continues to unfold through their stories, their art, and their truths. Every donation supports young people in finding their voice, confidence, and individuality – fueling workshops, mentorship, and platforms where teens learn to write, produce, and broadcast their truth. Your gift and generosity ensure that the next generation of storytellers has the tools at their disposal to thrive.
As a five-year-long participant in True Star’s transformative programs, I’ve witnessed firsthand how True Star nurtures creativity. Writing for them has taught me to balance deadlines with authenticity, and it has shown me that my voice can initiate change.
True Star isn’t just a place to work for compensation, it’s a lifeline; a found family filled with unwavering support both inside and outside of the studio. That’s the kind of impact your donation makes possible.
This Giving Tuesday, let’s activate our voices together. Donate today to True Star Media and invest in the future of storytelling as we know it. Give now at Our Voice, Activated!
By Journey Powell, Senior, Spelman College
Instagram: journeyaliah
Our Voice, Activated! is a call to action for all of us to stand with Chicago’s youth. When you invest in True Star, you are directly supporting young people in finding their voice, building their confidence, and learning how to use their creativity as a tool for impact and opportunity. Activate your voice by donating today.
