Join me on my mission
Support my journey to New York's School of Creative and Performing Arts
I’m Koen McKenzie, an unstoppable 16-year-old student, performer, and proud advocate for disabled youth. Living with hemiplegic cerebral palsy has shaped my resilience, but it does not define who I am. What defines me is my passion for storytelling through speech and drama, a love I’ve nurtured since I first stepped on stage at five years old.
Over the years, I’ve led school productions, shone in regional performing arts competitions, and served as an Arts Leader in my school community. Every role, every performance, and every challenge has taught me that art isn’t just about entertainment, it’s about connection, courage, and claiming your voice.
Now, I’m chasing the opportunity of a lifetime: to attend the prestigious Teen Advanced Acting Program at the New York School of Creative and Performing Arts (SOCAPA) in June 2026. For three weeks, I’ll train alongside passionate young artists from across the globe and learn from industry professionals in acting, stagecraft, and screen performance.
I’ve already received $10,000 through the Momenta Live the Life You Love Award, and now I’m rallying to raise the final $7,500 to make this dream a reality. This journey isn’t just about me; it’s a statement to every young person who’s ever felt underestimated: your voice matters, your dreams are valid, and your passion can move mountains.
To reach my goal, I’m launching a series of community fundraising events and sponsorship opportunities. I’ll also run other initiatives such as sausage sizzles, raffles, bake sales, and local events, and I’m reaching out to businesses for sponsorship. Every contribution, big or small, brings me one step closer to SOCAPA and to inspiring others to follow their dreams.
Any funds raised above my goal will be donated to the Cerebral Palsy Society
As a thank you to those who support my journey, I’d love to give back by sharing my story. When I return from SOCAPA, I’m available to speak at schools, community groups, or events about my experience, what I learned, and how we can all chase bold dreams, no matter the challenges. If you’d like me to inspire your group, please reach out!
Why SOCAPA?
The School of Creative and Performing Arts (SOCAPA) is one of the world’s premier summer intensives for teens passionate about film, acting, music, dance, and photography.
With campuses in New York City, Los Angeles, and Vermont, SOCAPA offers immersive, hands-on training led by industry professionals. Students create, perform, and collaborate in a vibrant, supportive environment, building skills, confidence, and lifelong connections.
The journey has just begun
This is just the beginning of an incredible adventure. By June 2026, I aim to reach my $17,500 goal to SOCAPA but the spotlight is already shining bright! Thanks to a generous $10,000 from the Momenta Live the Life You Love Award, I'm off to a phenomenal start. And after taking first place in the Tauranga Performing Arts Competition, I added another $500 to the fund.
With $7,000 still to raise, every bit of support gets me closer to New York and closer to proving that passion, perseverance, and purpose can defy every limit.
Commercial for inspirational speaker Cam Calkoen
Cam was also born with Cerebral Palsy and his life has been “normal” for him since birth. The fact that Cam chose to extend himself way out of his comfort zone to have done the things doctors said he would never do, is inspiring, powerful and unique. Cam now travels the world inspiring others to dream big. I acted in this commercial for Cam over three days, four years ago.
My supporters
