We had the good fortune of connecting with Tyra Hawthorne and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tyra, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand is rooted in my spiritual and mental growth. I understand that this journey towards success requires me to continuously develop myself mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. The key lies in recognizing my purpose and fully comprehending the vision, knowing that it entails immense effort and commitment. I made a firm decision long ago to never give up, always putting the needs of the kids who are a part of the organization first and never allowing anyone or anything to distract me from my mission and purpose. I always knew that I had to remain humble and authentic, staying true to myself and my values. Above all, I prioritize keeping God first in every decision and every step I take, trusting in divine guidance to lead me toward continued success.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

Absolutely. As a Marine Corps Veteran and the Founder, CEO, and Executive Director of Heartbeat Music & Performing Arts Academy, my commitment to service has been centered on working with San Diegan youth for over a decade. It all started with the creation of the Thunder Squad Drumline program at the Jackie Robinson YMCA. My aim was dual-fold: firstly, to introduce Black and Brown youth in San Diego to the rich culture and traditions of Historically Black Universities & Colleges, and secondly, to offer a vital artistic outlet for children from under-resourced communities, regardless of their backgrounds or resources.

Having been part of the Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band myself, I experienced firsthand the life-changing potential of music and dance education, offering healing, purpose, and opportunities for financial aid and higher education.

These experiences inspired me to establish HBMPAA in 2014, with a focus on training and preparing middle and high school students to audition and secure HBCU music and dance scholarships. By 2020, we expanded our operations to include Preschool 4 The Arts, catering to low-income families with an arts-integrated preschool program.

It was an honor to have Council President pro Tem Monica Montgomery recognize my commitment by declaring July 30th as Tyra Hawthorne Day in 2020. From the Thunder Squad Drumline to the expansion into Preschool 4 The Arts, my work with HBMPAA has garnered appreciation from community members and leaders—it’s become an indispensable part of the San Diego community.

Today, I’m proud to be a steadfast and celebrated force, dedicated to making a lasting impact on and for the San Diego community through HBMPAA’s initiatives.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I don’t have a favorite place or hobby, but I do love eating at restaurants by the water, specifically in Coronado. That would be my ideal hangout.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I would like to dedicate my shoutout to three individuals who deserve credit and recognition in my story. Firstly, I want to acknowledge my mother, Phillis Forrest. She has been a constant source of encouragement, urging me to never give up. During a challenging period from 2017 to 2019, when I lived in my Academy to save the business, my mother was there with me every night, providing unwavering support until we made progress towards self-sufficiency for the organization.

Secondly, I want to give credit to my daughter, who has been sharing her mother with the community since she was just four years old. Despite her young age, she has always been understanding and supportive of my work. Her constant encouragement has been invaluable, and she truly is my little best friend.

Lastly, I would like to recognize Dr. Saovaros Diehl-Hope. I met Dr. Hope in 2022, and she made a promise to me that Heartbeat Music & Performing Arts Academy would not only thrive but grow. She brought me on as a subcontractor and partner with RENU Hope Foundation. Her promise not only ensured the financial sustainability of the organization but also brought forth tremendous growth that has been a true blessing.

Website: www.hbmpaa.org

Instagram: becoming_tyrahawthorne and hbmpaa_

Facebook: Tyra Hawthorne and Heartbeat Music & Performing Arts Academy

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