On September 11, 1973 when the political shift in power began in Chile, so did the beginning of my family’s story. Many months of intimidation and fear surrounded the Chilean people as they tried to make sense of the disappearance and torture of their loved ones.

Ten months later, my grandmother would be given the news that her husband had been detained right outside their apartment by two D.I.N.A ( Direction of National Intelligence) agents one morning on his way to work. What followed was my grandmother’s intense 30+ day search for the love of her life. She found him beaten and tortured. My grandfather's detainment and imprisonment became the purpose, drive and motivation for my grandmother to find a solution. For the next fourteen months, while my grandfather experienced the worst moments of his life, steps were taken to get my family, including my mother, here to the United States.

My mother named me “Regina del Carmen” which means “ Queen of Song”. Growing up, she made sure I was given the best she could provide. She taught me how hard, unfair, and alone it can be, and will be, regardless of circumstances and background. But, more importantly, she also showed me that it can also be beautiful and meaningful. She has been my number one since day one.

I volunteer at Mattie Rhodes Art Center, a non-profit organization here in Kansas City, Missouri. Mattie Rhodes has not only helped me develop artistic skills, but a life-long relationship with my community. I was given the opportunity to develop my music through one of their programs, M.U.S.I.C.A (Musicians United by Social Influence and Cultural Awareness). It was a life-changing program and has been an integral part of my support team, which helped me overcome challenges with bullying and insecurities.

Nothing has come easy. It’s been a constant financial and physical struggle, which brought on other obstacles. But it was never so hopeless or awful that life seemed unbearable. I learned to “walk by faith and not by sight,” which for me meant that through belief and inner-strength, I can achieve my goal and aspirations for success. I believe that without the struggle, and without the challenges, my music and creativity would not have developed the way it has.