Alejandro Perez

Alejandro Perez, Jr., a multi-disciplinary artist and educator in Greater Dallas, embodies the spirit of bridge-building by connecting diverse communities through creativity, culture, and education. With deep roots in African-American and Puerto Rican heritage, he has dedicated his life to fostering unity, understanding, and empowerment. Bridge-building, to Alejandro, is about creating spaces where people from all walks of life feel seen, heard, and valued. He accomplishes this through his Melody Memory Method, a teaching approach that blends music, movement, and storytelling to make learning accessible and meaningful for students, especially those from marginalized communities. Alejandro uses this method in programs like Big Thought’s “Creative Solutions,” where he mentors at-risk youth, helping them find their voices and build brighter futures. Alejandro’s journey as a bridge-builder began with the inspiration of his grandmother, Rose L. Williams, who nurtured his love for poetry and performance. At five years old, he began rhyming, encouraged by her to share his voice in church. This early experience taught him the power of storytelling to connect hearts and spark change. Today, he carries that lesson forward, using his talents as a musician, spoken word artist, and Contra-Mestre of Capoeira Angola to create bonds that transcend language and cultural barriers. In his work with DaVerse Lounge, Alejandro mentors young creatives in an under-21 open mic community, helping them harness the transformative power of self-expression. As the lead musician and MC, he bridges generations, showing how art can heal, empower, and unite. His poetry performances at events like TEDxSMU and the National Facing Race Conference further amplify messages of inclusion and hope, inspiring audiences far and wide. Alejandro’s impact extends to classrooms, community centers, and stages across Dallas and beyond. As an educator, he has led workshops at institutions such as Southern Methodist University and the University of North Texas, where he fosters creativity and critical thinking in students of all ages. His collaborations with artists like Erykah Badu and Kalamu Ya Salaam demonstrate his commitment to blending artistry with activism, always aiming to uplift and connect. What makes Alejandro an exemplary bridge-builder is his ability to fuse the broken pieces of culture, history, and community into something beautiful and whole. He approaches every interaction with empathy, ensuring that every individual feels valued and supported. His work is a testament to the power of art as a universal language, capable of dissolving barriers and fostering unity. Through his dedication to building bridges, Alejandro has transformed lives and strengthened the fabric of his community. He inspires others to embrace their unique gifts and find common ground, proving that the most meaningful connections begin with compassion and creativity.