In a powerful and inspiring event hosted by Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), the “Express Your PosSCZible: Talent Showcase” brought a vibrant celebration of creativity to Los Angeles. The initiative, part of BMS’s national “Live Your PosSCZible” campaign, aimed to transform the narrative around schizophrenia by spotlighting the remarkable talents and stories of individuals living with the condition. Approximately 2.8 million people in the United States alone are affected by schizophrenia, a persistent mental illness that impacts how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
From gripping musical performances to captivating visual art, poignant theater, and laugh-out-loud comedy, the stage was filled with diverse talents from within the schizophrenia community. Each act was a story, a vibrant stroke painting a new portrait of what’s truly possible when individuals are supported and seen. The “Live Your PosSCZible” campaign is dedicated to empowering those with schizophrenia to plan for their futures and access essential resources, fostering a society where their dreams are not just acknowledged, but actively encouraged.
In the midst of this inspiring evening, journalist Courtney Brown sat down with acclaimed actor Taye Diggs, who co-hosted the event alongside his sister, Christian. Diggs, known for his dynamic career spanning Broadway, television, and film, shared his deeply personal connection to the cause.
“I was excited to continue my partnership with Bristol Myers Squibb and emcee the Express Your PosSCZible Talent Showcase alongside my sister Christian, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia as a young adult,” Diggs shared. “Through her, I’ve seen firsthand how much people living with schizophrenia can achieve. It’s not always like what you see on TV and in movies, and I feel blessed to have the opportunity to spread the word alongside my sister for a cause we’re both so passionate about and showcase what’s possible.”
The showcase was an undeniable celebration of spirit and skill. When asked about the most moving or surprising moment, Diggs’ admiration was palpable. “We had some truly amazing talent in the show, including musicians, comedians, artists and more. I was in awe. It was truly incredible to watch everyone shine and express their possible in their own ways.” He stressed the societal impact of such events: “Society often tells people living with schizophrenia that they cannot live a full life and that they have to put their goals and ambitions aside. Through showcasing all the talents of our performers at the event, together with BMS, we hope to help change the conversation by spotlighting how much people living with schizophrenia can accomplish when they are supported and seen.”
Diggs also opened up about his role as a care partner for Christian, a journey that has profoundly shaped him. “When Christian was diagnosed, I had certain ideas about how she was going to act. As her big brother, I felt helpless, like I had no control,” he admitted. “Seeing how she handled the situation helped me to understand, and it changed me as a person. It made me realize that it’s time for a new mindset around schizophrenia.” Christian’s achievements stand as a testament to this new mindset. “Witnessing how she adjusted and rebuilt her life has been inspiring. Today, Christian lives independently, enjoys yoga and dance and works in a job she loves as a carpenter in construction. She is truly living her possible, and I am so proud of what she has achieved.”
With Mental Health Awareness Month and World Schizophrenia Awareness Day recently observed, the timing of the showcase was particularly poignant. Diggs expressed his hopes for the broader public’s takeaway. “Storytelling is such a powerful tool for change,” he affirmed. “I hope by celebrating the unique talents and stories from the community like Christian’s and the amazing performers, we can help raise public awareness about schizophrenia and foster a deeper understanding of the condition. People with schizophrenia should know that they are not alone. There is a whole community of people going through similar struggles and working to find ways to dream and thrive.”
The “Live Your PosSCZible” campaign emphasizes the transformative power of proper management for schizophrenia. This message has clearly resonated with Diggs on a personal level. “One of the biggest things that contributed to my sister being able to achieve all that she has was finding the right care team that includes a therapist and psychiatrist,” he noted. “Christian is also close with our family, and we support her as her care partners. I am proud of all that she has accomplished and am excited for her future. Real-life stories like Christian’s are important to help empower others to identify and pursue their goals. To hear other stories or learn more about the Live Your PosSCZible campaign, people can visit LiveYourPosSCZible.com.”
As an artist himself, Diggs understands the profound impact of creative expression. “Performance and the arts have always been important to me, and this kind of creative expression is such a valuable therapeutic outlet for a lot of individuals living with schizophrenia,” he explained. “It was such a wonderful experience to get to emcee the Express Your PosSCZible Talent Showcase alongside Christian. Hearing their remarkable stories through a variety of creative expressions from music and visual art to theater and comedy was humbling and inspiring.”
The “Express Your PosSCZible” Talent Showcase transcends a simple event; it’s a movement towards greater understanding, empathy, and recognition. Through the voices and talents of its participants, championed by advocates like Taye Diggs and his sister Christian, the campaign is powerfully demonstrating that managing schizophrenia allows for a life filled with ambition, artistry, and boundless possibility.
photos: Bristol Myers Squibb