Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dante Mitchell . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Dante , so great to have you with us and thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with the community. So, let’s jump into something that stops so many people from going after their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. We’d love to hear about how you dealt with that and persisted on your path.
I want to start with acknowledging the people who support me. My close circle of family and friends, the folks who really believe in me they’re a big reason I keep going. Their support means a lot because growing up, I didn’t always have that. My parents weren’t around due to unfortunate circumstances, so a lot of the time I had to figure things out on my own. I learned early how to push myself. I had to build my own confidence, my own drive, and teach myself that I could hit my goals. Relying on myself and staying focused no matter what became a big part of who I am.
If someone’s bothered by you trying to be great, that’s on them, it’s just a sign that I’m on the right path.That mindset carried me through a lot.
So how do I keep going despite the negativity? I remember where I came from, lean on the people who support me, and stay focused on my purpose. I’ve dealt with real challenges in my life, so opinions or hate don’t shake me. I keep pushing because I know what I’m capable of, and I’m not letting anyone’s doubts slow me down.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
<[email protected]>
Professionally, I stay busy in a lot of different lanes, but everything I do connects back to creativity, teaching, and working with young people. I teach coding, creative writing, and tai chi and I train kids in basketball and volleyball. I coach basketball as well, so helping the youth grow on and off the court is a big part of my purpose. I love seeing kids build confidence, find their voice, and realize what they’re capable of.
On the creative side, I’m a poet, musician, filmmaker, and I direct my own music videos and short films. I don’t consider myself an actor, but I’ve done some commercials and recently starred in a film I helped create. I’m always creating something. A big part of my process is collaboration. Most of my ideas come to life because I work with people, I’m really close with. We understand each other’s vision, and that makes the work feel real and personal.
I’ve got a couple projects I want people to know about. I recently released a new song called “Urban Shottas” with a talented artist from Memphis named Mempho.
It’s a reflection on survival, mental pressure, and rising above chaos. Two perspectives from different cities connected by struggle, growth, and elevation.
I also released a short film earlier this year called “Hidden Planets Saga: Nuru of the Stars vs Kaljin the Sage.” It’s a cosmic martial arts story about a warrior (Nuru) returning to fulfill an ancient prophecy, only to be tested by a powerful sage (Kalin) who needs to know if he’s still the chosen one.
Overall, whether I’m teaching, coaching, filming, writing, or making music, the goal is always to inspire people, especially young people, and show them that the things in their imagination can become real if they stay committed. I’m excited to keep building, keep collaborating, and keep bringing these ideas to life.</[email protected]>
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I think the three most impactful qualities and skills would be self determination, reading, and empathy. Developing these takes discipline and hunger. In today’s world where social media is prevalent it’s easy to make it seem like you’re doing this or that or that you have talents. I’ve always been cut from the cloth of just doing the work. Showing up over showing off. When you focus on proving things to yourself, you build confidence that’s rooted in personal growth not validation. Your motivation becomes stronger, more authentic, and impossible for anyone else to take away.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
Easily, “Creativity” by Osho. I was gifted the book by a friend during a strong case of writer’s block. What impacted me most was his teaching that true creativity comes from returning to a childlike state of mind and approaching the world with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to explore without fear of judgment. That idea reminded me that creativity isn’t about trying to be impressive; it’s about staying playful, present, and unafraid to experiment. Those nuggets of wisdom helped me trust my imagination more, and create with a sense of freedom that carries into my teaching, coaching, and artistic work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/princeoftheghetto
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lineageofthekingdom/
- Twitter: https://x.com/zenmastahphresh
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@princeoftheghetto333
Image Credits
Addae Madison, Zorrie Creations
