Founder Mario Reyes Empowers Atlanta Teens Through Art And Healing

Founded by Mario and Chanel Reyes, Manifest Destiny is quickly becoming a force for good in Atlanta, dedicated to education, healing, and empowerment through art.

On July 18, the vibrant creativity of Atlanta’s youth was on full display as the nonprofit Manifest Destiny hosted its second annual Muses & Masterpieces Summer Internship showcase.

Thirteen budding artists, nurtured through a unique partnership with Fulton County Arts and Culture, took center stage at the Fulton Aviation Museum, celebrating two weeks of artistic growth and community connection.

The organization’s programs range from men’s mental health support groups to “mommy-and-me” painting sessions and this summer’s marquee event: the Muses & Masterpieces Internship.

Mario Reyes, who describes the organization’s approach as “bringing art therapy to underserved kids,” emphasized a mission that goes far beyond art for art’s sake. “Our goal is to sneak in the medicine with the candy,” he told BLACK ENTERPRISE. “We want these kids to understand that character matters more than just achievement.”

Reyes sees the proof in the program’s impact, especially among neurodiverse youth. “One of our members is on the spectrum, and it was powerful to watch how the other students supported him without any prompting. There was genuine healing that happened.”

The showcase featured an impressive range of student works, from textiles to acrylics, watercolor, and mixed-media. But the heart of the event was found in words as well as images: spoken word artist and instructor B-roc(k) helped students find their voices through poetry.

“My goal is always to make them feel more confident than when they arrived,” he said.

The room was alive with applause, finger snaps, and the rhythmic stomps of a proud, supportive crowd as students shared their final pieces and heartfelt poetry.

Manifest Destiny’s impact extends beyond this single program. The nonprofit has formed strong partnerships with organizations like BMW, Buckhead Art & Culture, and The Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta, but Mario Reyes is quick to point out that community input is as vital as financial support.

“You can give Manifest Destiny $100,000, but I’d rather someone direct us to a place or a group that really needs us. That’s the most rewarding part.”

Looking ahead, Manifest Destiny is gearing up for a back-to-school drive and will continue its men’s mental health group, which meets twice a month. For those interested in volunteering or donating, more information is available on the organization’s official website.