In this episode of TMN Creative Thinking, Carlos Moreno, co-executive director of Big Picture Learning, speaks with TMN creators Hasi Kapali and Emil Cinto about youth creativity, educational equity, mentorship and the importance of giving young people a voice in shaping their own futures.

Throughout the conversation, Carlos discusses how traditional education often limits young people's ability to express themselves, explore their interests and participate in decisions that affect their lives. He explains why schools should recognize students as individuals with their own talents, aspirations and experiences rather than concentrating primarily on what they don't know.

Carlos also reflects on the values he learned from his parents and how growing up in a community rich in care and personal relationships influenced his understanding of education. He discusses why bringing people from different backgrounds together creates opportunities for collaboration, innovation and stronger communities.

The conversation explores the importance of educational equity and access to opportunities beyond the classroom. Carlos explains how connecting young people with professionals, mentors and different working environments can help them discover new possibilities, build relationships and develop the confidence to pursue careers they may never have considered.

He also shares his perspective on youth leadership and why educators should involve students in creating solutions rather than making decisions on their behalf. For Carlos, amplifying young people's voices means listening to their ideas, recognizing their contributions and giving them a meaningful role in their schools and communities.

Toward the end of the interview, Carlos offers advice to young people who may not have mentors in their lives. He encourages them to remain open, stay curious and pursue opportunities to connect with others while reminding adults of their responsibility to make those opportunities available.

The interview was conducted by TMN creators and Big Picture Learning Fellows Hasi Kapali and Emil Cinto during the Big Picture Learning Big Bang Conference 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

If you're interested in youth creativity, education, mentorship and creating more opportunities for young people, this episode is for you.

Become a member to access more TMN learning experiences, resources, and opportunities for young creators.

We create and share these conversations to explore how we learn, create, work together, and find our place in the creative industries. So if something in this episode made you think, helped you see something differently, or simply felt worth sharing — pass it on.

We drop new videos often. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the 🔔

Become a Creator | Become a Member | Read our Blog | Get TMN Merch