In the latest episode of “It’s Your Break,” host Jonathan Mertz sits down with a truly multifaceted visionary: Ashlieya Mariano. Ashlieya (often called Lieya) is the driving force behind Builders of a Better World, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of emotional literacy and the performing arts.
From Professional Theater to Six Degrees: The Journey of Ashlieya Mariano
Ashlieya’s path to founding a nonprofit was anything but linear. With an upbringing that spanned Ireland, the UK, and Southern California, she developed a unique worldview early on. Her professional career began at the age of eight in theater, and she continued performing through her early twenties.
However, her passion for learning led her to pursue six different degrees, eventually becoming a therapist and job coach. She later founded Dance Masters, a ballroom dance studio in Agoura Hills, California, which has been thriving for a decade. It was through her work with Dance Masters Performing Arts—providing enrichment to impoverished school districts—that she realized her true calling was philanthropic.
What is Builders of a Better World?
At the heart of the organization is the concept of emotional literacy. Ashielya defines this as the ability to recognize, understand, express, and regulate emotions in oneself and others. The mission of Builders of a Better World is simple yet profound: helping individuals become the best versions of themselves to build a better world.
The nonprofit focuses on several key areas:
- Youth Programs: Reaching socioeconomically disadvantaged youth, public school students, homeschoolers, and children in foster care.
- Performing Arts Education: Using dance, music (including guitar and drums), and theater as tools for self-discovery and confidence.
- Leadership Development: Offering programs for business owners and decision-makers to help them lead with clarity and self-regulation.
- Accessibility: The organization goes above and beyond by providing donated instruments, computers for virtual courses, and even transportation for students who otherwise couldn’t attend.
The Power of Transformation
During the interview, Ashielya shares a moving story of a “debilitatingly anxious” young girl who joined a singing class. Over eight weeks, the girl transformed from someone who couldn’t make eye contact to a confident performer belting out songs on stage. This social-emotional learning provides transferable skills that help youth self-advocate and thrive in every aspect of their lives.
How You Can Help Build a Better World
As a nonprofit, the organization relies heavily on volunteers, donors, and corporate sponsorships. Whether it is donating equipment like keyboards and guitars or providing grant funding, every contribution goes directly back into expanding these vital programs. Ashielya emphasizes that there is no ego at the top; the goal is simply to “build the ship” and watch it sail toward a more emotionally literate future.
To learn more about their mission, upcoming iThrive authorship series e-books, or how to volunteer, visit buildersofabetterworld.org.
Follow Ashlieya Mariano at:
Don’t miss an episode of “It’s Your Break” with Jonathan Mertz!
Stay inspired by subscribing to us on your favorite platform:
- [Apple Podcasts]
- [Spotify]
- [Amazon Music]
- [iHeart]
- [Audible]
- [YouTube]