Destiny Outreach

In honor of the anniversary of what started it all, look back with us and celebrate the young visionaries and filmmakers who made up our first Cohort!

While we have celebrated the numerous achievements Destiny Outreach has accomplished in its inaugural year, it’s important to reflect back and honor what started it all.

Transformation is the goal of our program, and while these young creators may no longer be the version of themselves that first stepped into the Destiny Outreach family, you can not truly appreciate who you have become until you reflect back on who you have been.

To everyone who has continued to support us from day one up to now, thank you for being our Dream Keepers and supporting our mission of growing the young creators around us.

“Three months ago I was craving authenticity, and this has been a very authentic experience.”

Apprentice Alex Gorz journey through Destiny Outreach and his placement at WVON is a reflection of what happens when creativity meets opportunity, discipline and community.

Coming from a background where art and creativity existed but were not always seen as a career path, Alex found himself surrounded by people who shared his passions, aspirations and creative vision. What once felt distant became tangible. What once felt uncertain became possible.

Through his placement at WVON, Alex says he has grown tremendously in professionalism, confidence and consistency. He feels heard, valued and trusted to contribute meaningfully in rooms that are shaping real work and real impact. Even while editing, he recognizes that what he does matters.

As someone rooted in music, Alex shares that this experience taught him not to limit himself to one lane. The apprenticeship gave him another outlet to expand his creativity and challenged him to step beyond stagnation. Deadlines, expectations and accountability pushed him to become more punctual, intentional and committed to finishing the projects he once sat on.

Since joining the program, Alex has released over three songs, continued playing guitar and deepened his work in music production while growing professionally through his placement.

His biggest takeaway:

“You are allowed to pursue your dreams. There is always going to be a way if you care enough. I know I will come out of this apprenticeship program a lot more open. My horizon has expanded.”

This is the power of exposure, mentorship and believing in what is possible.

Apprentice Terryannah Caldwell, videographer for the Hidden Figures Entertainment Summit, expressed deep appreciation for the invaluable knowledge and insight shared throughout the event. As a filmmaker herself, Terryannah was especially inspired by the practical wisdom shared by panelists on navigating film budgets, maximizing resources, and still producing high quality work without compromising creative vision.

Terryannah shared that hearing experienced professionals speak openly about making powerful films with limited budgets gave her a new level of confidence and understanding within her own journey as a filmmaker. She believes the experience elevated her from emerging to mid level, strengthening both her mindset and approach to the industry.

She reflected on how opportunities like this continue bringing her closer to the destiny and success she has always envisioned for herself. Terryannah understands the power of proximity and meaningful connection, sharing that even meeting one person and receiving one piece of advice can completely catapult a career into new spaces.

As a filmmaker who has fully embraced and taken advantage of every opportunity placed before her, Terryannah continues to grow creatively, professionally, and personally. Her passion, dedication, and willingness to learn are paving the way for a powerful future in film and storytelling.

Kontour, volunteer for the Hidden Figures Entertainment Summit, shared how deeply blessed she felt to be a part of such a powerful and inspiring experience. She expressed that the event set a new standard for every summit and professional space she will attend moving forward. Every conversation, panel, and interaction became something she wanted to hold onto as she continues growing within the entertainment industry.

Kontour shared that the environment created at the summit made her feel comfortable speaking with people, building connections, and even engaging directly with panelists, which has already led to new opportunities opening up for her.

One moment that especially stayed with her was receiving heartfelt encouragement from Dona Marie Reid, who complimented her spirit and offered mentorship. That moment reinforced the importance of authenticity, connection, and community.

Kontour reflected on the beauty of the intergenerational connection throughout the summit, with people from Los Angeles and Chicago all coming together with one shared purpose of uplifting, learning, and creating opportunity for one another. She described the room as feeling like one giant group chat filled with wisdom, support, creativity, and genuine energy.

We are proud to see Kontour embracing every moment, every lesson, and every opportunity placed before her journey.

Sandra Patterson continues to be a shining example of leadership, service, excellence, and unwavering dedication to the people of Chicago. Being recognized by the Chairman of City Council and Mayor Brandon Johnson during “Older Americans Month” is a reflection of the countless lives she has touched throughout the years.

A true pioneer and trailblazer, Sandra has continuously poured into her community through advocacy, mentorship, business leadership, and support of organizations that uplift families, youth, and future generations. Her impact reaches across Chicago and beyond, leaving a legacy built on compassion, strength, wisdom, and purpose.

As the proud mother of Danita Patterson and Board member of Destiny Outreach, her influence can also be seen through the continued work of empowering and serving others. Sandra Patterson has helped shape communities, inspire leaders, and create opportunities for so many people throughout her journey.

This recognition is well deserved and a powerful reminder that her years of service, sacrifice, and commitment to Chicago have not gone unnoticed. Chicago celebrates you, honors you, and thanks you for being a remarkable force of change and inspiration for generations. Destiny Outreach celebrates you too!!! 💙🎉💙🎉