Youth Media TV show turns spotlight on local kids

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A pair of Houston sisters is stepping in front of the camera, hoping to have an impact on the lives of teens. They've created a television show which highlights the talents of teens across Southeast Texas.

"We do not get along so well so it gets our relationship working better," said co-host Maci Lowery.

"When we're on camera we try to help each other out," said her sister, Madison Danek.

The pre-teens are hosts of "Youth Media," a new show being filmed that shines the spotlight on other talented kids in the Houston area.

"It's amazing to meet these people," Madison said. "Not every kid gets to do that."

The duo learned quickly it can be a lot of hard work, from smiling so long their nose twitches to being told by directors they aren't smiling enough.

"I stutter with my s's so that's been my biggest fear," said Madison.

The idea of Youth Media was developed by Maci and Madison's mother, Jeni Dickson, and the producers at Houston's Public Access Channel.

"I've seen them building a relationship together and as a mother that's a wonderful thing to see your girls working together as a team," Dickson said.

The girls report on TV and write a magazine for local kids.

"I think basically anyone with a cell phone can get out there and post a YouTube video and make a name for themselves," said Dickson.

Other teens are involved in the production of the show from holding cue cards to producing graphics.

"My parents say it's one of my gifts that I have and I guess you could say it's a passion also," said 15-year-old Jerry Garcia.

The sisters are also aspiring singers. Both have written songs and posted videos on YouTube. Lowery says she's written songs on many topics but her struggle with bullying is her favorite topic she's used to inspire other kids.

"It's like a mosquito that I just want to slap away," Maci said.

You can view the girls work at http://www.youthmediatv.com/.

They plan to team up with local school districts and produce more shows featuring teen talent.