BEYOND THE CURTAINS

MONICA

SPEAKING UP & SPEAKING OUT

Hi everyone, I'm Monica, and I'm excited to share how DramaWay Productions has supported me and my fellow performers to gain skills and confidence that help us both on and off the stage. DramaWay helps to make you feel empowered, included, and it builds a really supportive community. For the past 14 years, DramaWay has been my second home, where I've learned so many new skills and grown so much, in a lot of cool and surprising ways.

Participating in DramaWay programs and productions has boosted my confidence, expanded my vocabulary, and improved my communication skills. Since joining DramaWay, I feel more confident to start up conversations and maintain my relationships. All of these things help me feel more independent and like I can advocate for myself. I know that my voice matters and I have the power to create positive change.

All the interaction and communication skills I’ve learned at DramaWay have helped me in my personal life as well as my school and jobs. Whether it's speaking up for myself at work, engaging with customers and colleagues, studying at school, or volunteering, DramaWay has helped me feel like I can succeed in anything I do.

After completing high school, I graduated from the CICE program at Mohawk College and then went on to graduate from the culinary skills program at Humber College. Currently, I'm employed at Loblaws company grocery store, where I get to put all the skills I've learned through DramaWay to work in a professional setting. I also volunteer at a neighborhood school, in the community centre at summer camps, and with the Halton Environment Network doing data entry. These experiences have allowed me to give back to my community while further developing my skills and interests. It’s been awesome!

DramaWay’s director, Danielle Strnad has played a really big role in my journey, creating a welcoming and supportive environment where I feel valued and encouraged to be myself. Her energy and enthusiasm is contagious and rubs off onto everyone on the team, including my fellow performers, the other facilitators, and volunteers. She makes us all feel so comfortable and welcome in every class we take.

I'm so grateful for everything DramaWay has done for me, and I'm proud to be a part of such a supportive and inspiring community.

Help Monica in furthering her influence within the community Beyond the Curtains through your generous contribution today!