A Black mother and son are hosting their 10th annual talent showcase and resource expo in Chicago.

Natalie Manning and her son Dorian are the founders of This is Life, a 5013 non-profit organization established 10 years ago to provide a platform for Chicago's youth to showcase their talents. The organization also offers resources to families looking for solutions to the pervasive issue of violence in their communities.

On Saturday, June 24th, the highly anticipated 10th annual This Is Life Youth Talent Showcase & Resource Expo was held. Hosted by Chicago's own Mr. Aww Yeah “El Hitta.” and featuring DJ Fly Ty on the sounds, the event took place in the Englewood community at The Salvation Army Adele and Robert Stern Red Shield Center.

Natalie believes that, “Now more than ever, the world needs to shift into a more loving, joyful, and positive space for our youth to dwell!” She encourages youth artists and group participants to shed a positive light on the city by displaying their artistic gifts and inspiring positive attitudes towards youth-led movements to increase the peace.

The main goal of This is Life is to provide an environment for young people to develop their creative strengths, build genuine relationships, expand their fan base, and alter the media’s focus of Chicago’s youth from defeated to optimistic. This Is Life has seen success in the past, having been featured on outlets like the New York Times, CBS 2, WVON, Fox News Chicago, Daytime Chicago and more, and having produced a series of events highlighting thousands of national and local youth artists as well as the development of a Chicago themed clothing line.

As a recipient of the 2023 Chicago Fund for Safe and Peaceful Communities, the Annual Youth Talent Showcase & Resource Expo offered free admission to the public. Although the event has ended, vendor and sponsorship opportunities remain available for other activities throughout the summer. To apply, email [email protected].

This Is Life is a tax-exempt organization that accepts donations. These donations help fund their annual back to school give-aways, winter toy drives, seasonal city tour trips, and more. To learn how you can support the cause and positively impact one youth at a time, please visit ThisIsLifeChi.org.

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