Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaime Cepero.
Hi Jaime, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I guess the abridged version of my journey thus far is that I grew up in Boston, moved to New York, and eventually became the person and professional I am today. I still have so much more to do and to see manifest for myself. My story has many more chapters. I plan on writing them all.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In the grand scheme of things – I think I have led a pretty privileged life. I have a family that supports me and wonderful friends I trust. But professionally, it certainly has been an uphill climb at times. As a queer and non-binary afrolatino, I do find that sometimes I am in the middle of the road, so to speak in regards to representation. There are nuances to my experience that I often don’t see in our media and art. Part of my work and passion is to help change that. I want to see people like myself showcased honestly and authentically as their true selves. I think everyone, regardless of where you come from needs and deserves that.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I think the best words to describe me are passionate and multi-hyphenated. I draw. I write. I sing. I have appeared in roles on television, film, and in theater both locally and internationally. In January, I started a year-long Artist residency writing an original musical at the Tony Award-winning Public Theater. I have an incredible experience there. While I love doing all these things and getting to express myself artistically, I think I am most proud of my work in organizing and activism. I recently received a Gold Anthem Award from the Academy Of Digital Arts & Sciences for work I did on the March On Broadway in 2021, protesting for equity and diversity on Broadway & in the entertainment industry. Since then, I have made it a point to use what influence I have to push the needle in the right direction for marginalized communities and those who look and identify like myself. This has become very important to me, especially right now, as we are seeing so much anti-queer legislation being proposed throughout the country. I truly feel my best when I am doing something for my community. Even if it is just giving us a space to breathe and be ourselves. I think there is great value in that.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
If I’m being honest, I think every human is different. What works for one person may not necessarily work for another. At least for me, I have found great comfort in meditation and a ritual connection with my ancestors. I try to do my best to give myself a moment each day to dedicate to this work. I’ve also found that I am very responsive to water. I usually exercise by the river or visit the Ocean as much as I can. These are places where I find my energy is most centered and high. What I’ve learned thus far is that is the key to doing my best is always pursuing my goals from a place of that energy. When I feel balanced and my mind is clear, I find I make wiser emotional decisions and I do my best artistic work. If you take anything away from me, I recommend finding out what makes you calm. Learn what it is that comforts you. It could be a place, a fragrance, a workout, a ritual… but find out what it is for you and add it to your arsenal of tools each day. A majority of the questions you have in life, you already have the answers to. You just have to be curious enough to listen.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @papimagic
- Twitter: @jaimecepero
Image Credits
Brett Tubbs Photography
