more on Jose:

Jose Morgan, 18,  Edge High School (Just graduated!)

I had acquired an interest in journalism and I thought Voices was the perfect opportunity to get a head start. I have always had a passion for all things having to do with the media and I hope to make a living putting in my 2 cents into the whole mess. I hope to become a professional photographer or write for a music magazine. I play guitar in a band so there’s also the whole “Rockstar” thing but that’s a long shot for me. I also do an online radio show or “podcast” on the weekends with a couple of friends as a way to express my comedic genius. My goal in life is to make a living doing something I love, whether it be radio, photography or music.

(VOICES Photo/Lilliana Lopez)

Yvette discovers that moving into low income housing improved her and her family.

Charlie talks about how relationships differ in the hood.

Photo by Lilliana Lopez

Christina “Charlie” Estavillo, 19, Pima Community College:

I have been through a lot growing up and in my attempt to be different. Before VOICES, I hadn’t yet found a place where I felt at home. But I can walk in here after a bad day and walk out with a smile no matter what. I have met and become close with amazing people I only could have wished to know. Thanks to those who are VOICES.

Nick discusses how the truth was never held from him as a child and how it’s benefited him as an adult.

Photo by Lilliana Lopez

Nick Cashman, 18, Tucson High Magnet School:

I found out about VOICES from a friend who was in it and was interested right away. I’ve had more fun here and become a much better writer in the last few months than I thought possible. I’ve also learned how to write well on a deadline, and getting paid for something creative is the best.

Written and Directed by Mariana Madden, 20, Pima Community College

.

fruit from voicesinc on Vimeo.

“My name is Brigette Dumais and I used to be a princess, complete with a pony. It was the last horse show of the year, the state finals… all horses and riders were required to wear their hair in french braids. My grandma braided my hair for every competition. When grandma finished my braids, I looked in the mirror and saw a tangled mess. I ordered her to re-braid my hair. Before my grandma even had a chance to respond, my mother exploded, ‘You should be ashamed of yourself for being so disrespectful!’ She began to cry. ‘Can’t you see she’s in pain?!’”….

Written by narrated by: Brigette Dumais, Tucson High, 17

(VOICES Photo/Reyes Suarez)

Arizona may become the only state in the nation without GED testing, meaning no opportunity for high school dropouts to earn their diploma.

Full Length Version:

Youth

Sarah Nichols, 16, Tucson High Magnet School:

At VOICES I’ve learned how to condense detail and get more into what my story is really about. I love that the mentors here care to listen to what we have to say.

Photo by Lilliana Lopez