“That’s what today is truly about. It’s about change, it’s about making that transformation.”
Food Network television personality Chef Jeff Henderson opened the Passport to Life Career and Education Expo by sharing his own transformation from a former crack cocaine dealer in prison to a successful corporate businessman, chef and motivational speaker.
The Expo was held Tuesday at San Diego City College downtown. Approximately 80 educational programs and institutions, various companies, military and community resource organizations set up booths or workshops to provide information and opportunities to youth, ranging in age from 14 to 24, who are on probation.
A captivated audience of 750 juvenile offenders listened in as the charismatic Henderson told them they need to market themselves for success in the field of their choosing. He talked about studying those successful businessmen who he admired and reimaging himself to be like them.
“I squared up. I had to become a chameleon,” he told them. “It’s hard to get a job. It’s harder but it’s not impossible.”
Physically, he had to tone down his “homeboy swagger” and turn it into a corporate stroll. He “squared up” with his suit, hair, and eyewear. He covered tattoos, fixed his teeth and got manicured. He also studied how his mentors presented themselves and made eye contact and showed enthusiasm at job interviews.
He spoke to the youth of transitioning their street skills to business skills. On the streets it is called the gift of gab; in the corporate world, it’s a great communicator. Selling, marketing and branding can be applied to legal products, Henderson explained. On the streets, a “shot-caller” is really displaying leadership skills that can be transferred to the business world.
“If you put your energy, time and money into what you were born to do, that’s how you get the Bentley. That’s how you get educated, that’s how you leave a foundation for your children and you break the cycle (of crime),” Henderson said.
He told them anybody can change no matter what their story or what they did.
Hector Carrillo, 19, who has been on probation for nearly a year also addressed the audience. Now a student at the Univerity of San Diego, Carrillo’s main message was that all of them could make positive changes in their lives like he did.
He reminded them to take advantage of the opportunities that the probation department offers such as scholarships, financial aid, and help with transportation.
Hosmar Hernandez, 19, is still in custody but he will be getting out in a month. He and a few others from his unit got the chance to attend the event as a reward for good behavior. He said he was encouraged by the morning presentation. He wants to do something with his life.
“I’m going to make the best of it,” Hernandez said. “I plan to go to college and study psychology or physics or music, one of those.”
Assistant Chief Probation Officer Yvette Klepin said the event is voluntary but those who attend can earn up to 12 community service credits by attending the morning workshop and afternoon workshops.
Afternoon workshop topics included how to get and keep a job, completing high school, and continuing education after high school.
