Meet Rev. Dr. Dorthea Enrique | Writer, Journalist, Communication Coordinator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rev. Dr. Dorthea Enrique and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rev. Dr. Dorthea, how does your business help the community?
My mission is dedicated to making a positive social impact on the community and the world through the power of music. I believe that music has the ability to heal, inspire, and create opportunities for individuals from all walks of life. I am the founder of Modern Soulful Music Awards, which was created to uplift independent artists who are using their art to help heal the soul of themselves and others by sharing a powerful message. I also work as a Communication Coordinator for Give a Beat. Give a Beat’s mission is to use the power of music as a pathway to healing and opportunity for those impacted by the criminal justice system.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In addition to using music as a tool for healing, another significant aspect of my career is the impact of storytelling and shifting narratives in the realm of social justice. I firmly believe in the power of storytelling to inform and inspire, and how it can play a vital role in breaking cycles of injustice.

Through my work as a Writer and Communication Coordinator, I strive to inform people about the transformative impact of music on lives affected by social injustice. By sharing stories of individuals who have harnessed the power of music to overcome adversity, I aim to shift the narrative surrounding these issues and inspire others to take action.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career is witnessing the profound impact that music can have in creating social change. Whether it’s through organizing performances at festivals, curating playlists that highlight voices from marginalized communities, or collaborating with musicians and DJs who use their platform to advocate for justice, I am proud to be part of a movement that harnesses music as a catalyst for positive societal transformation.

Overcoming the challenges in this area has not been easy. Addressing social injustice requires navigating complex and sensitive issues, and it often involves facing resistance and skepticism. However, I have learned to approach these challenges with empathy, open-mindedness, and a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices through music. By staying true to my mission and engaging in meaningful dialogue, I have been able to break down barriers and foster understanding among diverse communities.

The lessons I have learned along the way are invaluable. I have learned that storytelling is a powerful tool for empathy-building and creating connections across different backgrounds. I have learned to listen actively and validate the experiences of those who have been silenced. And most importantly, I have learned that by informing people about the impact of music and how it can break cycles of injustice, we can inspire collective action towards a more equitable world.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am dedicated to using storytelling, music, and communication as powerful tools for social justice. By informing people about the transformative power of music and its ability to break cycles of injustice, I strive to inspire individuals and communities to come together and create lasting change. Through shifting narratives and fostering empathy, we can build a more inclusive and just society for all.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As my best friend arrives in town, I can’t wait to show them the best time ever. We kick off the week-long trip by heading to The CAPO Center, a legendary music studio. The moment we step inside, the air is buzzing with creativity and talent. We join a jam session and get lost in the rhythm and melodies. It’s an incredible start to an unforgettable adventure.

In the evening, we make our way to Jail Guitar Doors, a venue known for its electric atmosphere and live music performances. The energy is contagious as we dance, sing along, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant music scene. It’s an exhilarating experience that sets the tone for the rest of the trip.

Day 2:
We wake up excited for another day of exploration. Today, we have something special planned—a poetry workshop with DSTL Arts. As we enter the workshop space, we’re greeted by a diverse group of poets, all eager to share their words and stories. We unleash our creativity, dive deep into thought-provoking discussions, and leave feeling inspired by the power of spoken word.

In the afternoon, we venture into Leimert Park, a cultural hub that pulses with history and activism. The streets are alive with vibrant art displays, captivating performances, and soulful music. We explore the local art galleries, browse through boutique shops, and soak up the rich Pan-African heritage that permeates every corner of this incredible neighborhood.

Day 3:
We embark on an adventure to see the iconic Hollywood Sign up close. As we hike through Griffith Park, excitement fills the air. Finally, we reach our destination—the view is simply breathtaking. Standing beneath those giant white letters, we feel a sense of awe and wonder. We snap countless photos to capture this unforgettable moment.

Day 5:
Today is all about embracing the vibrant spirit of Venice Beach. We lounge on the sandy shores, feeling the warmth of the sun on our skin. The boardwalk offers a sensory overload with street performers showcasing their talents, vibrant murals adorning buildings, and eclectic shops selling unique treasures. We soak up the lively atmosphere and indulge in delicious beachside snacks.

Day 6:
Our inner child awakens as we step foot into Universal Studios Hollywood. We embark on thrilling rides, immerse ourselves in behind-the-scenes studio tours, and lose ourselves in the magic of movies. The day is filled with laughter, excitement, and an overwhelming sense of wonder as we experience movie magic come to life.

Day 7:
On our final day in LA, we visit The Broad—a contemporary art museum that showcases thought-provoking works from around the world. We marvel at larger-than-life installations, intricate sculptures, and captivating paintings that challenge our perceptions. It’s a fitting end to a week filled with artistic inspiration.

As my best friend’s visit comes to an end, I can’t help but feel grateful for the memories we’ve created together. From music studios to art museums, from lively neighborhoods to breathtaking views—each experience has been a testament to the fun, interesting, and exciting side of Los Angeles.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a shoutout to Give a Beat, an amazing organization I work for that deserves recognition for their impactful work. We use music as a tool for social change, specifically focusing on providing music education and mentorship to those who are impacted by the system. Give a Beat’s programs address the continuum of incarceration by reaching underserved youth, people experiencing incarceration, and those reentering society. We engage the music industry to help create more opportunities for people to thrive, reduce recidivism, encourage empathy, and unite to contribute to the larger transformation of the criminal justice system. I am furthering my mission and vision through the collaborative creative work we are doing together. Thank you to the team at Give a Beat that continues to uplift and inspire me as a member.

Please consider supporting Give a Beat’s impactful work by making a donation today. Together, we can contribute to the transformation of the criminal justice system, help break the cycle of mass incarceration and provide healing through music to those who need it most. giveabeat.org/breakthecycle

Website: revdortheaenrique.wordpress.com/poetry

Instagram: @RevDrDortheaEnrique

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/revdortheaenrique/

Twitter: @RevDrDorthea

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RevDortheaEnrique/