My introduction to media didn’t start in college, or even high school, it goes all the way back to fifth grade, when I joined my elementary school’s broadcast team. From that moment on, I was hooked and by sixth grade, I had launched my very own YouTube channel. I’d print out flyers, pass them around school, and document my daily life through vlogs. It wasn’t polished or perfect, but it was mine, and I loved every second of it.

Alongside that early love for video, another passion was always present, drumming, which became a big part of my life at five years old. I’ve played almost every day since and continued practicing all throughout school. It became a core part of who I am, not just musically, but creatively.

In high school, my two passions, media and music, started to intertwine. I joined my AV production class and was introduced to a new layer of storytelling. At the same time, I started dipping my toes into the El Paso music scene. I began taking photos, shooting videos and interviewing local bands, which naturally evolved into performing with them. Before long, I was playing drums for several local bands while still being behind the camera documenting the community I was now a part of musically.

One of the biggest turning points for me was in high school, when my AV teacher, without realizing it, helped me find my path. The guidance he gave helped me realize that digital media production was something I wanted to pursue. That class showed me the possibilities, and I haven’t looked back since.

Today, I’m continuing to grow in this field, blending my love of music and storytelling through video, photo and audio. Whether I’m behind a camera or behind a drum kit, I’ve learned that creating is what I’m meant to do. While I’m still learning, experimenting and figuring things out, I know I’ve found the right path, one where all the things I love finally make sense together.

Devin Nava is a photo contributor at The Prospector and may be reached at d[email protected]