Brandon Dean Johnson, CEO of Los Angeles-based nonprofit Create Now, has spent his career proving that creativity is more than an outlet—it’s a lifeline. Through innovative arts programs, Create Now empowers at-risk youth to build confidence, develop skills, and find purpose in some of the most challenging circumstances.
Johnson’s leadership is a continuation of a journey that began well before he took the helm in 2021. His relationship with Create Now started as a volunteer mentor, teaching arts workshops to youth in need. Six years of dedication and hands-on mentorship led to his role as Board Chair, where he gained a deep understanding of the organization’s mission and impact. That grassroots experience informs every decision he makes as CEO.
Raised in North Carolina, Johnson has always been drawn to the arts. He studied Graphic Design and Fine Arts at Elizabeth City State University, a foundation that shaped his creative career. His passion for arts education took him abroad, teaching visual arts programs to children across Europe. Those experiences solidified his belief that the arts have a universal power to connect, heal, and transform.
Returning to the United States, Johnson stepped into the entertainment industry, quickly establishing himself as a creative force. He worked as the Art Director and Production Coordinator for Nerd HQ, a fan-driven event blending entertainment with philanthropy. Later, he joined Pure Imagination Studios, collaborating on high-profile projects with major entertainment companies. Along the way, he founded BigFooters, a production company committed to telling stories that matter.
Johnson’s creative expertise has directly influenced his work at Create Now. The nonprofit provides workshops and mentorship in music, writing, visual arts, and performing arts, serving youth who have faced homelessness, incarceration, foster care, or other hardships. These programs aren’t just about teaching skills—they’re about giving kids the tools to express themselves and envision a better future.
One of Johnson’s standout initiatives is the annual Power of the Arts Festival. This community-focused event brings families and youth together for a day of creative workshops, performances, and hands-on activities. It’s a celebration of the arts as a unifying force and a reflection of Johnson’s belief in the importance of community connection.
Johnson’s leadership has brought a fresh energy to Create Now, expanding its reach and impact in Los Angeles and beyond. His ability to forge partnerships with artists, educators, and community leaders has been instrumental in growing the nonprofit’s programs. He’s particularly focused on ensuring that youth from underserved communities have access to the transformative power of creative expression.
In 2022, the LA Clippers recognized Johnson as a Community Hero, honoring his efforts to inspire and uplift youth through mentorship and education. The recognition was a proud moment for Johnson but also a reminder of the work still to be done.
What drives Johnson is a belief that every child deserves a chance to dream and create. Under his guidance, Create Now has become more than a nonprofit—it’s a movement that’s helping young people see beyond their current circumstances and imagine brighter futures.
Looking ahead, Johnson is focused on scaling Create Now’s programs to serve more youth and expand its reach within Los Angeles. He’s also exploring ways to integrate new technologies and creative disciplines, keeping the organization at the cutting edge of arts education.
Brandon Dean Johnson’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and leadership. Through Create Now, he’s changing lives one workshop, one mentorship, and one creative moment at a time. His work serves as a powerful reminder that the arts can be a tool for healing, growth, and hope in even the toughest situations.
For Los Angeles, a city that thrives on creativity, Johnson’s work is a testament to what’s possible when we invest in our youth and give them the tools to express themselves. It’s leaders like him who ensure that the city’s next generation has a chance not just to survive but to thrive.
Written in partnership with Tom White
