What Are You Most Passionate About?

Breaking down barriers that keep human being from connecting with one another. I believe that the arts can educate individuals to be more open minded and receptive to others. Children do not discriminate; adults and society teaches them negative stereotypes; to hate; to segregate.

Who Is Your Hero? Why?

My mother. She passed away almost two years ago. But her presence still impacts my life. She was a single mother who gave 100% of her energy to loving and raising her children. At the same time, she never gave up her artistic career. She was a powerful singer and actor. When she wasn’t performing, Tonice Weston shared her talents with children.

What Is Your Favorite Sound?

Laughter. Life is a journey of consistent challenges. When I hear laugher I feel hopeful and powerful. I believe that joy and laughter have healing powers.

What Project Would A Laptop Help You With?

I am the founder of ICP. The International Child Program (ICP) is a Harlem based non-profit organization whose mission is to help youth and their communities gain cultural awareness and understanding of the people of many nations, while exploring new artistic interests. ICP offers engaging, interactive workshops by talented and accomplished artistic professionals (including dance, music, theater, visual arts, filmmaking basics, and musical storytelling). ICP youth develop disciplined attitudes and gain creative marketable skills for their future.

How would a laptop help you?

A laptop would help ICP with all of our programming. At the moment, I do all of our administrative work on my own computer. A laptop would assist volunteers with supporting the organization. Right now, I am organizing the “Pocket Flicks” summer programming, an introduction to film making for our youth. Students are encouraged to express themselves and share their stories by using their talents, creativity and a smart phone.  A laptop would be vital for downloading video clips and editing. As well as uploading work onto various social media sites.

What do you love about this project?

Working with young people. I am a filmmaker who was inspired by my friends, family, and colleagues to create my own film. I would like to do the same for others.

What Languages do you speak?

English, French and conversational German.

Given a choice, would you prefer a Mac or PC?

Mac