When you have had the opportunity to interact with Johnny, you quickly conclude that he is a person who endures and is not defined by his disability, but by his ability to overcome. Growing up in the Washington, DC, area, Johnny was born to Haitian and Ethiopian parents. Although he comes from a large family of aunts, uncles, and cousins, his decision to live as a gay man would lead him down a homelessness path because of cultural beliefs around homosexuality.

In addition to poetry, Johnny enjoys dancing to and singing Gospel Music. He recalled the support he received from members at his previous home church, who knew of his love for dancing and Gospel Music and encouraged him to showcase his talent at church events. Johnny would perform his first public dance to “Never Would Have Made It,” by renowned Gospel Artist Marvin Sapp. He described the moment as “moving and powerful, ” as he stated the presentation blessed many congregants. When he came to Frontline, Johnny stated that he had the opportunity to participate in the dance club started by a staff member. He has performed for company-wide events such as Thanksgiving and even a celebration for Frontline’s President, Dittu Abraham. His presentation was well received.