b'to a nearly all-white high school. He cameto Philadelphia in 2003 to study music at the University of the Arts because he wanted to be around more black people and live in a more diverse community, he says. Along the way, his love for music blended with anIllustration by interest in social justice. He has also worked withJoanne Wilson, children and their families at a homeless shelter,eighth grade, St. Martin de Porres where he helped create a space for the kids toHealthy Sainthang out and relax.The thing we were able to do was allow childrenWe have to get involved in the world to make to be children. Black and brown children are sure all children thrive, whether they are white, typically robbed of childhood so early becauseblack, migrant, poor, he says. We have tothey end up being responsible for the health andhonor your childhood. well-being of other people, he says. Ndale Carter, Trey Davis, Sean Griffin,Mr. OBryan also earned a certificate in how to Saabirah Parker, Jocalyn Wallace,help children who experience trauma and adversity.and Joanne Wilson When trauma happens to you, it is not your fault,St. Martin de Porres Healthy Sainthe says. You cannot wear the shame and blame of a traumatic experience happening to you.While he has won multiple professional awardsHealth tipsfor his work, what means the most to him is hearing someone say, Hey, Mr. Mike, you have a lot ofFor your mind: Always try to find at least one patience, or Mr. Mike, we like you because youadult you can trust.Challenge yourself to make us feel seen or heard. talk about whats on your mind.Mr. OBryan worries that life may still be hard forFor your body: Drink a lot of water many black and brown children in 2035, but heSource: Michael OBryanknows one thing for sure.21'