An Inspired Chat with Dominique Gabriella of Center City

Dominique Gabriella shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Dominique, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
A common misconception about my business is that people often underestimate the considerable amount of time, dedication, and resources that are actually required to operate and maintain it effectively on a day-to-day basis.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Dominique, the creator of On The Scene, an independent platform dedicated to shining a spotlight on live entertainment and the incredible talent within the Springfield, MO area and beyond. What started as a passion for supporting local musicians has grown into a multi-platform outlet where we share exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, live performances, and coverage of everything from music and comedy to theater and festivals.

What makes On The Scene unique is that it’s not just about promotion—it’s about connection. We give artists a space to tell their stories in their own words and invite the community to experience the energy and creativity that make our local scene thrive.

Alongside On The Scene, I am also proud to be involved with Can-Do-Musos, a global organization that showcases and supports musicians living with disabilities. Being part of this network has deepened my commitment to inclusivity in music and inspired me to help amplify voices that often don’t get the attention they deserve. It’s a reminder that music truly has no boundaries.

Right now, I’m focused on expanding our reach with new video series, interviews, and collaborations while also creating opportunities for fans, venues, and businesses to get involved through sponsorships and partnerships. At the heart of it all, my goal is to keep building bridges between artists and audiences, making sure our vibrant arts community continues to grow and be celebrated.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I’m a survivor of a horrific crime that left me 100% disabled and fighting for my life with only a 7% chance of survival. I lost my dominant right arm above the elbow, spent months in a wheelchair, became partially blind, and continue to live with a traumatic brain injury. Those challenges reshaped how I see the world, but they also taught me resilience and the power of never giving up.

Here’s what I’ve learned along the way: even if it’s rush hour and no one else is stopping at the scene of an accident, be the one who does—you might save a life. Sometimes the people you expect to stand by you will walk away, so you must learn to stand strong for yourself. I’ve seen firsthand how flawed our systems can be—through being denied disability over and over, watching the perpetrator go unpunished, and even discovering major errors in my police report. But those failures didn’t break me—they fueled me.

From a near-death experience, to the wheelchair, to walking again, and to where I am today, my journey has shown me one truth: no matter how impossible things seem, there is always a way forward. Never give up.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self: never be a follower. Trust yourself enough to create your own unique path. You don’t need to fit into someone else’s mold or seek validation from people who can’t see your worth. You are already enough. You are worthy and deserving of the same love, kindness, and loyalty that you so freely give to others. Hold on to that truth, because it will carry you through every challenge and remind you of the strength you’ve had inside all along.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
I’m as genuine as it gets. What you see is truly who I am, I don’t put on a different face for the public. My journey has taught me that life is too short for masks or façades. The passion I show for music, for community, and for lifting up others comes from a very real place, and I carry that same energy whether I’m on camera, behind the scenes, or just in everyday life.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope the story people tell about me is that, despite the abuse, betrayal, constant let-downs, and pushback from those I believed had my best interests at heart, I never stopped showing compassion to others. I want to be remembered as someone who kept choosing kindness, resilience, and hope, no matter the circumstances. Most of all, I hope people say that I never gave up on life, on love, or on the belief that things can get better.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.onthescene417.com
• Instagram: @onthescene417
• Facebook: @onthescene417
• Youtube: @onthescene417
• Other: TikTok: @onthescene417
  Twitch: OnTheSceneLive