BCNC’s YouLead youth hosted a meaningful afternoon at the Boston Center for the Arts with a public screening of Surrender, followed by a youth-led conversation with filmmaker Jess Dang. Youth from YouLead and the Everett Haitian Community Center shared reflections on mental health, identity, and the importance of storytelling that speaks to AAPI and immigrant experiences.

Surrender is the story of Naomi, a young Asian female who continues to wrestle with her past family trauma. As Naomi attempts to regain a sense of control, she is drawn back into the world of Blackjack after abstaining for 100 days.

Jess Dang is a Chinese-American writer and director based in Los Angeles. Dang’s work aims to amplify Asian voices and highlight underrepresented communities by exploring social justice, humanitarian progress, mental health issues, and coming-of-age themes to ignite conversations.

“For me, as an Asian American woman, it is particularly important for me to change the narrative of how mainstream media portrays gambling and distorts reality,” Jess shared.

We were especially grateful to hear remarks from Victor Ortiz (MDPH), Senator John Keenan, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn, and Matthew Gifford (AGO), whose support helps strengthen community-driven wellness initiatives.

Thank you to the Everett Haitian Community Center and the Chinese Culture Connection for partnering with us to uplift youth voices and promote community wellness.