CLASS OF 2021

Featuring Genesis Ochoa

Remarkable! Resilient! Revolutionary!

My name is Genesis Ochoa. I am 17 years old, and I am currently dual-enrolled at JBHS for Show Choir as well as at ILA for my academic courses.


If you have an artistic passion, through what medium do you most like to express yourself?
Since a young age, I've loved everything that had to do with performing on-screen and on stage. When I was younger, there was never a time where I wasn’t singing and dressing up as different characters. I have come to terms with the fact that I have always been an introverted extrovert. I find that when I perform I am able to express my thoughts and feelings more than if I were presenting something to a class, or holding a conversation. When I am performing (acting, singing, dancing), I really connect to the material and really step into the character’s shoes. I’m then able to express myself through the character and make my performance truly heartfelt.


Describe your first experience with the arts while in the Burbank Unified Schools?
My first experience with the arts while in the Burbank Unified School District was when I joined the Vocal Music Association at John Burroughs High School. When I joined the VMA, I had no idea of the community that is Showchoir because I came from a school that had no arts program. I am sure as many of you know, the JBHS auditorium is incomparable to any other high school. When I first stepped on stage to perform with an amazing group of people, I knew I was going to be a part of something amazing for the next four years.


What art experience are you most proud of and how did it impact you?
In 2019, I had the opportunity to play Anne Frank in the Pop-Up Playhouse production of The Diary of Anne Frank with an entire LatinX cast. This production was not only groundbreaking for the cast and myself, but was groundbreaking for many communities. Never in a million years did I imagine I could make such an impact and bring to light the horrible things occurring at the border. In playing Anne, I was not only able to do what I love, I was also able to bring awareness towards the injustices that are occurring today; I was able to perform for young students, adults, people who had completely different political views, etc. I learned that I was able to open people’s minds just by telling a story! I was able to inform people from many different places about what was happening and how they could help. I was interviewed by The Los Angeles Times and even went as far as performing at a festival in Vancouver, Canada! Most importantly, I realized that our voices matter no matter how big or how small they may be. When we speak out, we will be heard!


Please share your plans for your future after graduation. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
After graduation, I plan on attending Pepperdine University where I will be double majoring in Acting for the Screen and Stage as well as Communications! Although the future seems a little dark as of right now, I have always been taught to keep my head up and keep a positive mindset. 

And with that in mind, in 10 years, I see myself using my voice to make a change. I see myself performing with the greats and paving the way for younger generations and younger Hispanic girls who have the same dreams as me. I hope to be a successful woman and entrepreneur making my parents proud for all of the sacrifices they have made for me to live a better life.

JOIN US to celebrate the REMARKABLE, RESILIENT, and REVOLUTIONARY Class of 2021. Donate today to support their legacy for future students.