Jesse’s Story 

Thirteen-year-old Jesse lacked confidence. His mother Lorraine recalls how Jesse liked to remain unnoticed for the most part, but would occasionally misbehave in school.

“Kids with low self-esteem tend to act out as a way to cover up feelings of inadequacy,” Lorraine explains. “They need a way to channel that energy in a positive way, in a way that allows for self-expression.”

Lorraine says she found the perfect outlet for her son through TeenZone

A TeenZone staff member recommended that Jesse participate in the Live Comedy program. The program equips teens with the skills and confidence to perform stand-up comedy.

“I never imagined this was something Jesse would do,” Lorraine says of her son’s initial participation. “He was nervous, but he tried it anyway.”

The results were outstanding. Not only did Jesse thoroughly enjoy the program, he went on to “own the stage” in his culminating performance at Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club.

“All I could think was ‘I can’t believe that’s my kid,’” says Lorraine. “He did it so naturally.”

“It was really great,” says Jesse, describing the final performance and the instructors as his favourite parts of the program.

Live Comedy was just the confidence-booster Jesse needed to make new friends in and out of the program. Performing on stage also provided him with the self-esteem he needed to succeed in school. In fact, Jesse had so much fun he that has already returned to Live Comedy for a second time and plans to continue with the program in the future.

As Graham Clyne, Director of UpStart, explains, “Jesse’s story is a tremendous example of how a little after-school involvement can go a long way in developing invaluable tools such as self-worth and confidence.”

Jesse’s mother agrees, saying she believes every child should have this opportunity for self-expression. “I hope they keep this program running for a long time,” she says. “The experience is so positive.”