A high school improv team from Southeast Fresno, known as the 'Krabbie Baddies,' has earned a spot in the prestigious Destination Imagination (DI) 2025 Global competition in China. However, the students need to raise $25,000 by the end of October to cover travel expenses. Their journey from local success to an international stage highlights both their talent and the financial challenges independent student groups face.
Key Takeaways
- Fresno's 'Krabbie Baddies' improv team qualified for the DI 2025 Global competition in China.
- The team needs to raise $25,000 for travel and participation by the end of October.
- They have already collected over $10,000 through a GoFundMe campaign and TikTok outreach.
- This marks the first opportunity for all team members to travel by airplane.
- Destination Imagination challenges students in STEAM fields and creativity.
From Local Stages to International Recognition
The 'Krabbie Baddies' team consists of Estrella Monjaras, Nathan Castillo, Kyle Thao, and Bethzayra Torralba. These students attend different high schools across Fresno. Despite their varied school affiliations, they maintain a strong, cohesive unit. Their dedication to improv and competitive spirit is evident in their past achievements.
Team spokesperson Bethzayra Torralba emphasized their drive.
"We're competitive. We're very competitive," she stated.This mindset has propelled them through local and state competitions, culminating in their global invitation.
Quick Facts
- Team Name: Krabbie Baddies
- Members: Estrella Monjaras, Nathan Castillo, Kyle Thao, Bethzayra Torralba
- Competition: Destination Imagination (DI) 2025 Global
- Location: China
- Target Goal: $25,000
- Deadline: End of October
The Destination Imagination Program
Destination Imagination (DI) is a global educational program. It offers challenges rooted in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). The program aims to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students. Teams must integrate specific elements into their performances, which are then judged on their creativity and execution.
Meghan Christopherson coaches the 'Krabbie Baddies.' She explained the core of the competition.
"They have all these very specific elements that they have to work into their skit," Christopherson said. "They get scored on how well they integrate those different elements into their play and the creativity."The challenges require quick thinking. Teams typically have two minutes to prepare a skit and five minutes to perform it.
About Destination Imagination
Destination Imagination is a non-profit organization that teaches students 21st-century skills and inspires them to become the next generation of innovators and leaders. Its educational framework focuses on collaborative problem-solving and creative thinking through challenges across various categories, including technical, scientific, fine arts, improvisational, structural, and service learning.
A Surprising Victory and New Challenges
The 'Krabbie Baddies' began working together during their time at Sequoia Middle School. Their initial success was notable. When they advanced to the state competition, their performance exceeded their own expectations. Bethzayra Torralba shared the team's reaction.
"We knew we were good. We just didn't expect to be that good," she commented.They secured second place at the state level. This achievement qualified them as one of only two California teams to attend the DI 2025 Global competition.
However, their transition to different high schools created a new hurdle. They are now considered an independent team. This status means they must secure their own funding to participate in the global event. The cost for the trip is substantial, prompting their fundraising efforts.
Fundraising Efforts Gain Momentum
To help the students achieve their goal, Coach Christopherson initiated a GoFundMe campaign. She also used TikTok to spread awareness and gather support. These efforts quickly generated positive results. In approximately one week, the team managed to raise over $10,000. This initial success demonstrates significant community interest and support.
Despite this progress, the team still needs about $15,000 more to reach their target. The total goal is $25,000. The global competition is scheduled for December 13-15. This leaves the team with a tight deadline: they aim to secure the remaining funds by the end of October.
Fundraising Snapshot
- Amount Raised (initial week): Over $10,000
- Amount Still Needed: Approximately $15,000
- Total Goal: $25,000
The Dream of International Travel
For all four students, this trip would mark a significant milestone. It would be their first time traveling on an airplane. The opportunity extends beyond competition; it represents a chance for global exposure and a unique life experience. Coach Christopherson hopes the community will continue to support these students.
She emphasized the broader impact of their participation.
"Please help us get there. This is such a cool opportunity to represent California, to represent Fresno, to represent southeast Fresno," Christopherson urged.The team's journey highlights the importance of community backing for student aspirations. Their ability to compete globally would not only showcase their talent but also bring recognition to their city and state.
Bethzayra Torralba expressed the team's gratitude for the donations received so far.
"We're super glad to all the people that have actually donated and actually told us all these things. We're so grateful for them," she said.The 'Krabbie Baddies' are working hard both on their improv skills and their fundraising campaign. They hope to make their community proud on the international stage.
