Helping Others Find Their Voice: MJ’s Story

MJ grew up in Lincoln, the child of Iraqi immigrants who made their home in the U.S. before he was born. As a second-generation American, he’s always carried pieces of multiple cultures with him. 

“Growing up here, I got to see what it’s like to be raised in one world while your parents come from another,” he shared.

Since his middle school years, MJ was drawn to storytelling through video. He began creating skits with friends and soon found a passion for capturing real voices and experiences. Now a Global Studies major at UNL, MJ found a meaningful match at the Asian Center through an internship focused on our Untold Migrant Stories program.

“I thought it would just be a chance to practice video editing,” he said. “But it turned out to be way more than that.”

Since October, MJ has worked with immigrant and refugee high school students to help them share their stories through short films. Some were eager—like Nieto, a gifted artist. Others, like Cynthia, needed more encouragement. 

“She was really hesitant at first,” MJ said. “But I told her, just try it out, make it fun, and share what feels right. And she did. She made a beautiful video.”

For MJ, the joy came from seeing students grow in confidence. “A lot of them were shy. But now they look back and say, ‘I’m glad I did this.’ That means everything.”

MJ’s time at the Asian Center has had a lasting impact. “Every Friday, I look forward to our club meetings. I feel at home there. Honestly, I can’t imagine my future without this kind of work in it.”

To MJ and all the incredible volunteers who give their time, heart, and creativity to the Asian Center—thank you. Your work is shaping lives and building bridges across cultures in Lincoln every day.

As MJ put it, “Experiences like this change you. They open your eyes—and your heart—for good.”

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