MEET Xandro, a rising senior at Phoenixville Area High School. He is the founder of Creation for Prevention Association (CPA), known for its fundraiser Artists against COVID. His passion for the arts--channeled through his interest in music--were key aspects for his success in CPA.
Xandro’s desire to start CPA began after witnessing how the American government handled COVID-19. By watching the government make slow progress and put lives at risk, he contemplated on how a developed country could respond in such a clumsy manner. He asked himself how he could step up and help out his community, and looked towards art as a means of assisting those around him. Xandro saw this as an opportunity to better the spirits of those in his community and showcase the profound impact the arts have on our society today.
His biggest challenge was getting people to help him in his mission. By using clever marketing strategies via social media, however, he was able to reach a larger base and grow his organization. He now has a team of creative, like-minded people and a larger community to share his ideas with.
His final advice for students who wish to start their own platform: “This is a great question. I think one of the key factors to consider is that you have to be passionate about your project/initiative at hand. Passion is key- it drives you forward and is what ultimately brings on your dedication and perseverance. If you're not passionate about what you're doing, it's going to show you're just not going to be successful.”