About Us

Inspiring Minds LLC

Reaching aspiring artists and speaking to the whole man.

We are a stage and film production company dedicated to empowering youth, young adults, and aspiring artists. Through creative mentorship and community-focused storytelling, we support both the artist and the person.

About Us & Who We Are

Our Mission: Inspiring Minds LLC promotes self-empowerment, leadership, and community activism through performing arts.

Meet our Leadership & Creative Partners

Antwan Johnson (AJ_Thee_Artist) Founder & Executive Director, Inspiring Minds LLC

As a Writer, Director, Producer, Spoken Word Artist, and aspiring Actor, Antwan Johnson—known creatively as AJ_Thee_Artist—knows firsthand what it means to live a life fueled by creative passion. Born and raised on the Westside of Chicago in the North Lawndale area, Antwan founded Inspiring Minds LLC with a deep heart for mentorship, aiming to reach youth and young adults in our communities and speak to the "whole man." Through years of creating, writing, and performing, Antwan is dedicated to guiding the next generation of storytellers to find their unique voice, build their confidence, and take center stage in their own lives.

Aaron Schiffman (Double AA) Co-Founder of the "Voices of the Village" Project

By day, you can call him Aaron Schiffman, but to the creative world, his "Superman" name is Double AA. Aaron is the Co-Founder of our signature project, Voices of the Village.

Born and raised in the diverse Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago, Double AA is a rapper, producer, DJ, multi-instrumentalist, poet, and activist. He has been playing guitar since age eight, plays jazz and blues piano, and has produced and released multiple albums, including The Kid Who Wanted to be a Superhero (2024), We Are Not Going Back (2026), and Work the Feet (paying homage to Chicago’s footworking culture). Inspired by his hero, Stan Lee, Double AA is passionate about using music, art, and activism to stand up for what is right and mentor aspiring young artists.

What's Next?

• Voices of the Village: A signature creative project under Inspiring Minds LLC, bringing community stories to life through collaboration, music, and performance.

• Future Workshops & Productions: We are currently designing impactful stage and film programs for youth and young adults. Join our mailing list below to be the first to hear about casting calls, program registrations, and community events!

Join the Movement & Connect

(This serves as both your contact form and your newsletter signup)

• Title: Stay Updated with Inspiring Minds

• Fields:

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  • "I am an: [Aspiring Artist / Parent / Supporter / Community Partner]"

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