At just 17 years old, Jaidelis Maria Estevez-Peralta is already on a path toward making her mark in the world of theater and education. As a senior at Esperanza Academy, she has pursued her passion for directing with determination, taking on leadership roles in school productions and collaborating with professionals in the field. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Philadelphia, Jaidelis’ journey has been shaped by her immigrant experience, her love for the arts and a desire to give back to her community. With a clear vision of graduating from Arcadia University as a Theater major, she dreams of becoming a director and educator, inspiring the next generation at Esperanza Academy. In this interview by Impacto, she shares her story, the steps she has taken toward achieving her goals, as well as the impact her time at Esperanza has had on her growth and aspirations.

Jaidelis Maria Estevez-Peralta, 17

What goal or dream are you currently pursuing? What steps have you taken, or plan to take, to reach your goal or dream?

My goal is to graduate from Arcadia University with a Theater major and pursue my dream of becoming a director and educator at Esperanza Academy. I began working toward this goal in my sophomore year of high school when I persistently asked my drama teacher, Mr. Wilkins if I could direct, even though it was my first year in the class. I continued directing plays through my junior year and am currently working on my senior director project, where I’ve been allowed to direct a play entirely by myself with no assistance. I have also collaborated with actress and student educator Lee Minora and the Wilma Theater to create student projects inspired by plays performed at the theater. Additionally, I’m joining their AllStars program, which runs from April through May, where students have the opportunity to direct and act alongside professional actors and staff on student-based plays and projects.

Tell us about the journey that led you to your current goal/dream.

When I was younger, I didn’t grow up watching television in the Dominican Republic. But when I moved to Philadelphia, my world opened up to TV shows and movies. I’d watch entire episodes of Austin and Ally without taking breaks—I’d even stay for the ads because I couldn’t miss a second of the show. As I grew up, I realized how much I was getting involved with the characters’ lives, acting in front of my bathroom mirror as if I were part of their world. This sparked my passion for television, and I eventually became interested in acting. When I started middle school at Esperanza Academy, my world expanded to include drama. My first drama class in 7th grade with Ms. MacLeod was a game-changer for me. I loved the thrill of remembering lines and hitting my cues, but when I got my first chance to direct, I knew instantly that it was what I wanted to do. I realized I had a natural sense for what worked and what needed to change, and while I struggled at times, I always had people around me to listen to. Over time, I fell in love with the complexities of being a director.

I began watching videos of directors discussing their process and how they chose certain stories to help the audience connect more deeply with the characters. By the time I started drama in high school, I knew I wanted to do this for a long time. However, theater wasn’t my only passion. I also considered teaching. Watching my sister, who majored in Art with a minor in education, and reflecting on the impact my drama teachers had on me, I decided to study education as well so I could inspire kids like me.

How has your experience at Esperanza Academy supported you in your pursuit of your goal/dream?

My experience at Esperanza Academy has been incredibly supportive, unlike any other school I’ve attended. Moving to the U.S. as an immigrant at five years old, with no understanding of English, two older siblings, and my dad while my mom remained behind until her paperwork was completed, was tough. I attended school in South Philadelphia, where there was only one Spanish-speaking teacher, and she was the librarian. I went to three other schools before starting at Esperanza Academy, and I will always be grateful for this school. Esperanza was the first place where I was surrounded by people like me who shared similar stories, but more importantly, it’s a school that gives every student a voice. Opportunities like this interview allow students to share their stories—something that wasn’t available in my previous schools.

Esperanza has also provided many amazing workshops that help students prepare for college. In drama, we’ve partnered with organizations like Opera Philadelphia, and most recently, the Wilma Theater. These experiences have allowed me to work with real professionals, and the diverse staff at Esperanza has been instrumental in shaping my path. Mr. Wilkins has taught me a lot about teaching and directing, and he has guided me through high school, encouraging me to explore other theaters he’s worked with. The entire staff at Esperanza is caring and committed to students’ well-being, constantly checking in to ensure we’re on track academically and personally. The supportive environment at Esperanza is what motivates me to become a teacher, so I can return to teach future generations, not only about drama but also about the incredible opportunities Esperanza offers. It may sound cliché, but Esperanza truly gave me the hope I needed to begin my journey toward achieving my goals and dreams.

What are some ways that you strive to be a role model for your peers?

I strive to be a role model for my peers by demonstrating what hard work and perseverance—especially in education and passion—can help you achieve. My first year of high school coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a significant impact on my GPA and my overall motivation. However, when I returned to school and began my drama major, I realized that passion can take you far. Every role model talks about hard work, but I believe that passion is what sets me apart in the drama department. I hope that when others see my work, they are inspired to find their passion—whether it’s in theater or something else—and that I’ve helped them pursue it.