Marion John “MJ” Nelson has always had a passion for music. He loves spoken word, rapping, and music production. After high school, God called him to the West Coast to pursue a music career, ultimately becoming a missionary serving Central American youth through his unique gifts and passion for music.
“My favorite years of school ever were 7th and 8th grade. Every single day I laughed so extremely hard. It’s great to be in an environment where you are around your friends every single day,” reminisced Nelson. “It’s so much harder as an adult.”
At Westbury Christian, Nelson was extensively involved in the WCS Fine Arts department through theater performances, musicals, and band.
“I had a High School Musical Troy Bolton entrance into Fine Arts. I suffered an injury in basketball, and while on the sidelines, I became interested in what was happening in theatre.”
In addition to representing the school at state competitions in oratory and spoken word, his most impactful experience in high school was serving on the campus ministry team and going on missions trips to Oklahoma City.
“That was a huge part of my experience at WCS, and the mission trips had a huge impact on my life that led me to what I am doing now. I even rapped in Westbury Christian chapels.”
After high school, Nelson received multiple scholarships to pursue musical production. He decided to attend Shepherd University of Los Angeles for Musical Production. During his senior year, Nelson faced an unexpected situation when his college closed.
“It’s such a clear example of God at work in that situation because I was able to get a job as youth director at Christian Assembly Church where I attended.”
Nelson’s time in Los Angeles became a pivotal point for him in his relationship with the Lord and his career. He interned at a production company and had the opportunity to work with multiple Grammy-nominated producers and artists. He released a Christian rap album, performed at events and local schools in the area, and worked as a youth leader at his local church. It became clear that his passions of working with youth and music were his calling.
This past year, Nelson prayerfully decided to volunteer with InnerCHANGE where his love for kids, music, and the Lord intertwined. Through those volunteer experiences, God led Nelson to join the InnerCHANGE Los Angeles team as the Assistant Director for the ICLA Music Collective. His daily tasks include cultivating a music curriculum, strategizing youth outreach, and immersing himself in Central American culture.
“Growing up in Texas I have always been familiar with Latino culture, but definitely now I am more immersed and more aware of these kids’ stories,” says Nelson. “The studio is a safe place for our kids. I am very intentional with Biblical mentorship.”
“I remember Mr. Wagner did this exercise in high school my senior year. He said, ‘If you know who you are go to this side of the room, and if you don’t know who you are go to the other side of the room.’ All of my peers went to [the side indicating that] they didn’t know who they were and I was the only one on the side who knew who I was. In my mind, of course I know who I am. I am an artist.
“When I first moved out [to Los Angeles], I wanted to pursue a career in the music industry. But God really wanted a space where he saw a chance to pursue me here even deeper. Over the past couple of years, I have had a heart for kids and the Lord. My favorite part of my job is sharing God with them and because of God’s love for me…. I just can’t help it!”
“Being a first-time missionary, I have to completely trust in God for raising support,” Nelson said about one of the challenges in his new life. “I have also had to branch out to build partnerships with supporters.”
Nelson still recalls a long list of teachers at Westbury Christian who made an impact on his life. He gives credit to teachers like Coach O, Coach Hawley, and Mr. Wagner who helped prepare him for this new work.
“It was a combination of so many things that led to where I am today. Westbury Christian School just gave me so many opportunities to help me get to where I am today.”
To learn more about MJ’s Mission, please visit: https://mnelson.novostaff.org/ or watch here.