ReelPeople 2025

Introducing your 2025 ReelPeople speakers!

Join us for an extraordinary evening with extraordinary stories.

ReelPeople: features presentations from remarkable experts that will intimately and urgently reveal the world of disabilities.

John Bayless

John Bayless, a musical prodigy from Texas, began playing piano at age four. He quickly gained recognition, becoming the youngest church organist in the state at thirteen. His talent led him to prestigious institutions like Juilliard and the Aspen School of Music, where he studied under renowned musicians. Bayless' career has spanned decades, marked by performances at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall and collaborations with world-class orchestras. Renowned institutions have commissioned his compositions, and his recordings have topped classical charts. Despite facing adversity, including a stroke that paralyzed his right hand, Bayless' unwavering determination allowed him to relearn the piano with his left hand. Today, he continues to inspire and contribute to the world of classical music as an accomplished performer, composer, and educator.

Mikayla Holmgren

Mikayla Holmgren made history by being the first woman with Down Syndrome to compete in any Miss USA state pageant and did it in her home state of Minnesota in 2017. She continued to put herself out there by auditioning to grace the pages of the iconic Sports Illustrated Swim issue in 2021, as the first woman with Down Syndrome to do so. Later that year, People Magazine shared Mikayla’s story as one of the “100 Reasons to Love America in 2021”. She is a graduate of the Bethel University B.U.I.L.D. Program, a two-year certificate program for individuals with intellectual disabilities, where she participated in many activities, including being on the dance team. Dance is her passion. She choreographs her own dances, competes at many competitions throughout the year and has won many awards. She has danced at the Celebration Ceremony for the Minnesota Special Olympics State Meet and Best Buddies Leadership Conferences. Mikayla is a self-advocate and has spoken at the Minnesota and Pennsylvania Capitols for help with legislation for those with special needs; and has spoken at the United Nations. Mikayla loves fashion and is currently on the Advisory Council for Fashion Week Minnesota where she has walked the runway for fashion week. As a model & social media influencer, she has worked on campaigns for Sephora, Walmart, Bally Sports North and Sigma Beauty, to name a few. She has worked hard to bring the Best Buddies Organization to Minnesota and continues to support fundraising efforts by holding her own Dreaming Big Without Limits Fashion Show each year.

Kelubia Mabatah

Kel Mabatah is a survivor of a severe traumatic brain injury. In 2014, he was brutally attacked, leaving him paralyzed on one side and unable to speak. Despite the odds, Mabatah has made remarkable progress in his recovery. He underwent multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation to regain his ability to walk, talk, and live independently an even become a body builder.

Today, Mabatah is a dedicated advocate for brain injury survivors. He founded The ‘Kel Strong’ Mabatah Foundation to support others on their journey to recovery. Through his foundation, he has raised significant funds to assist individuals with brain injuries and their families.

Host or Publisher ReelAbilities Houston Film & Arts Festival