May 15, 2024
This is Life Co-Founders Natalie and D.A. Manning. The organization was launched
to provide a platform for young people to have a creative outlet. PHOTO PROVIDED BY THIS IS LIFE.
Stories this photo appears in:
Nonprofit Provides Safe Space For Young People To Showcase Their Creativity
Natalie and her son D.A. Manning founded This Is Life: Chicago in 2013. D.A. Manning came up with the concept at 11 when he created a piece about the gun violence that was taking place in the city. He turned that piece into a rap and decided he wanted to host his own talent showcase, with the goal of providing a platform for his peers in the city.