YOUTH LENS 360 - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- CEO
- Founder
- Founder of Youth Lens
Dario Otero, founder of Youth Lens 360, draws inspiration from his personal journey as a child navigating the educational system with dyslexia. Motivated by his parents' support and a transformative internship, Dario went from a struggling special education student to a successful entrepreneur.
At Bowling Green State University, he joined the High School for Recording Arts as an paraprofessional and later became a teacher, establishing an innovative video department for students with learning differences. In 2016, he founded Youth Lens 360, a video production company empowering youth as storytellers. The organization has impacted over 5,000 Twin Cities youth, providing opportunities for underrepresented talent and landing significant clients.
Dario's passion and dedication fuel his mission to create a platform where young voices are heard, leading to the success of more than 50 young entrepreneurs who have worked with Youth Lens 360. Amid the COVID-19 crisis, Dario continues to innovate, adapting the business to virtual experiences and dynamic video conferencing. His unshakable vision drives the organization's future, ensuring that students like him find their place and make a positive impact on the world.
Norman Westberry III, a 27-year-old with a vibrant spirit, hailing from the heart of St. Paul, Minnesota. From a young age, Norman's love for sports led him to embrace basketball, baseball, and football, learning the values of teamwork and perseverance. Life took a challenging turn when he tragically lost his father before starting 7th grade, but his resilience only grew stronger. Despite facing academic hurdles, he proudly graduated from Roseville Area High School in 2014 with a 1.7 GPA, setting the stage for a unique journey ahead.
Rather than following the conventional path, Norman fearlessly dove into the workforce, shaping his character through diverse experiences. His journey began at Buffalo Wild Wings and unfolded through various roles in sales, outreach, education as a paraprofessional, and even ventures into the moving business and marketing. Drawing wisdom from nine years in the field, Norman's tenacity and growth mindset transformed him into the determined and adaptable business person he is today.
Not only dedicated to his personal growth, but Norman also has a heart for empowering others. He has been a part of Youth Lens from its inception and took on the role of COO in June 2022, finding purpose in making a positive impact on young minds. Norman's story is one of resilience, passion, and the unwavering commitment to inspire and uplift those around him.