a musical mission rooted in purpose
When singer-songwriter Jose Rivas first attended a KW Next Gen event, he had no idea just how much it would shape the course of his personal and creative journey. A student at Shenandoah University and a rising artist known as The M. Mori Project, Jose is proof that when vision meets support, transformation happens.
Jose lives by a powerful mission: “to inspire others to live happy, spiritual, and fulfilled lives in order to build a world in equity through music and entertaining.” It’s a calling he’s followed since writing his first song in 8th grade—“It was horrible,” he laughs, “but I still loved doing it.”
That passion would evolve into something greater when he got introduced to KW Next Gen shortly after graduating high school. “My dad’s a Keller Williams agent,” Jose explains. “He knew about KW Next Gen and encouraged me to check out the Quantum Leap Summit in 2022. That was my first interaction.”
milestones that mattered
Since that first QL Summit, Jose’s journey has been marked by consistent growth:
- 2022: Attended his first Quantum Leap Summit, which planted the seed for what would come next.
- Virtual Goal Setting Class: “It was free, and I thought—maybe I should get my goals on track,” Jose recalls.
- Scholarship Award: He applied for—and received—a $5,000 FMM scholarship to help fund his education.
- Mentorship: With the help of MAPS Coach Benjie Toll and support from his dad, he dove into personal development, learning how to set truly achievable goals through tools like the 411 and the 80/20 rule.
“The most impactful thing for me was hearing Gary Keller’s story,” Jose says. “It was so regular—just like mine. He wasn’t born successful. He just put in the work. That was encouraging.”
living the 80/20 life
With a schedule full of school, songwriting, and music production, Jose has learned the value of focus. “Every day, there are so many things I could do,” he explains. “But I try to stick to what’s most fruitful, so I’m not pulling myself in every direction.”
That clarity has fueled his passion project: a 13-song album he’s writing, producing, and promoting independently. “It’s a big feat,” he admits, “but it’s the most honest work I’ve done yet.”
One song in particular—“Homegrown Lemonade”—captures his artistic vision and message. “It’s all about being happy, loving what you do, and living your life no matter the struggles,” he says. “It’s a really accessible message for anyone.”
a glimpse into the future
In the next 5 to 10 years, Jose sees himself touring the world, making music that heals, and being a role model for young people trying to find their way. “I think it’s hard to find good role models these days,” he says. “I want to be someone who shows you can live your dream and still lead with integrity.”
And to younger versions of himself—or any young adult thinking about getting involved with KW Next Gen—Jose offers this advice: “Trust the process. Everything happens for a reason. Keep going, keep your head high, and you’ll get far.”
gratitude that echoes
To the donors and supporters who make KW Next Gen programs possible, Jose’s message is simple but heartfelt:
“Thank you. You’re changing lives. You helped me realize what’s possible in mine.”
Are you ready to find your mission and ignite your future?
Join Jose and countless other visionaries by taking the first step and attending a KW Next Gen event.
