Journey 
Congratulations are in order to True Star Media as we celebrate two decade of serving the youth. Founded in 2004, this organization was created to establish its goal of amplifying youth voices and ensuring their value by providing a platform to develop writing and media arts skills. Since the 2000s, True Star has evolved into a digital media company, serving many underrepresented youth in the Chicagoland area, offering after-school and summer job training, and providing over 250 jobs to Chicago youth annually.
Youth voices are important because the youth represent the future. As both young people and new adults, we are profoundly affected by the issues happening in our world and simultaneously possess innovative ideas that’ll help bring us closer to a better society. I had the opportunity to talk with True Star’s co-founders, Na-Tae’ Thompson and DeAnna Sherman, who are celebrating their 20th year of providing opportunities for youth development in their communities. Thompson expressed her reason for wanting to create True Star, stating, “I always wanted to be the adult that I wish I had in my life growing up. I didn’t know it would be in the form of youth voice and communication.” She emphasized the need to allow young people space to grow into adults and ensure their value while young. Sherman agreed, making a point on the significance of youth voices with examples like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who began his advocacy for equal rights at the age of 16. And let’s not forget about movements like the Black Panther Party and how said movements are often initiated by youth. Silencing youth voices doesn’t create confident adults, which is why Thompson and Sherman make it their mission to listen to what young people have to say.
When asked about celebrating their 20th year, both Sherman and Thompson shared similar opinions, with Thompson saying, “It’s amazing, number one, because I never thought we’d be here.” They both expressed how they didn’t sit down and create a strategic plan, emphasizing their approach of just going with the flow and listening to the youth. The co-founders, who constantly encourage True Star participants to be their authentic selves, feel as though they’ve been around so long because they remain true to their mission. Sherman provided an example of their adaptability, mentioning how originally True Star was “strictly magazines” until they received feedback to implement digital platforms. Both the co-founders admitted they had to listen, and that listening to their audience has gotten True Star where they are today, allowing them to reach an even larger audience.
It is extremely important for youth to continue amplifying their voices by participating in these opportunities and advocating for themselves. The co-founders each have special wishes for the non-for-profit this year. Thompson aims to grow the organization and the power of youth voice, while Sherman envisions expanding True Star nationally, providing opportunities beyond Chicago.
In this 20th anniversary year, one thing is for certain, you can expect a whole lot more in 2024 from True Star Media.
By Journey Powell, Freshman, Spelman College
Instagram: journeyaliah
True Star Media’s content is made possible thanks to donors like you. Help empower young creators and transform lives by donating at truestarmedia.org/donate.
