INDIVIDUAL - SCAD ID - #481
Contact
cosmothealienofficial@gmail.com
631-790-2829
http://www.ginacasazza.com/
Horry County, SC
Discipline
Geographical Availability
Gina Casazza is an accomplished author, filmmaker, and educator whose diverse career reflects a deep commitment to storytelling and empowering young minds. With a rich background in film, including working alongside industry legends Ralph Macchio and Penny Marshall, Gina has seamlessly transitioned her creative talents into the world of children’s literature.
In October 2023, Gina published her debut children’s book, You Really, Truly Do Belong, a heartfelt narrative inspired by her transformative experience training with a Navy SEAL. This journey not only ignited her passion for storytelling but also helped her discover the profound message of belonging, which she now shares with audiences across the country. She is currently working on her second book, You Really, Truly Are Enough, further exploring themes of self-worth and resilience.
As the founder of EmpowerLit – Literacy & Beyond, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing literacy and fostering a sense of belonging among underserved communities, Gina has impacted countless lives. Her innovative approach to education, particularly her hands-on activity where students collaboratively create their own book, teaches character and story development in a way that is both fun and engaging.
Gina also created the YouTube Kids Channel Cosmo the Alien, extending her mission to inspire and educate through digital media. Her work continues to resonate with audiences, making learning a joyful and meaningful experience for children everywhere.
“Everyone has a story to tell. What I shared with you was my story. I hope I get to read your story one day.” This is the message I carry with me into every classroom, every book, and every speaking engagement. My artistic approach is deeply personal, rooted in the belief that our stories—no matter how simple or complex—are powerful tools for connection, healing, and growth.
My children’s books and speaking engagements are all reflections of my own journey. I draw from my experiences, whether it’s the lessons learned from working in the film industry with icons like Ralph Macchio and Penny Marshall or the transformative challenges I faced training with a Navy SEAL. These experiences have taught me about resilience, self-worth, and the profound importance of belonging—central themes that I now weave into the stories I create.
In my debut children’s book, You Really, Truly Do Belong, I invite young readers into a world where they can see themselves as valuable and important, just as they are. The book is more than a story; it’s a message of affirmation, inspired by my own journey toward understanding the true meaning of belonging. My current project, You Really, Truly Are Enough, continues this exploration, focusing on self-worth and the power of believing in oneself.
Through my nonprofit, EmpowerLit – Literacy & Beyond, and my school visits, I take this message directly to students. I’ve had the privilege of speaking at over 50 schools, where I not only share my books but also engage students in the creative process of storytelling. Together, we create characters, develop plots, and bring their unique stories to life. This collaborative activity is designed to make learning fun, but more importantly, it helps students realize that their stories matter—that they have something valuable to say.
Beyond the written word, I’ve extended my mission through the creation of the YouTube Kids Channel Cosmo the Alien. This platform allows me to reach children in new and engaging ways, offering content that reinforces the themes of kindness, belonging, and self-confidence. Cosmo the Alien is a reflection of my belief that education should be both entertaining and impactful, offering children a safe space to learn and grow.
In all my work, whether it’s a book, a speaking engagement, or a digital project, my goal remains the same: to inspire others to find and tell their own stories. I am committed to using my art to make a positive impact, helping children—and people of all ages—see the value in their experiences and the strength in their voices. I believe that by sharing our stories, we can create a more understanding, compassionate, and connected world!