So let me tell you that this lesson was inspired by a single thought I had when I was writing a Three Kings Day post for Daily Sofrito… I do believe that Benito’s marketing team really knows how to tap into his personal feelings about the what is happening in Puerto Rico right now.

If you thought El Apagon was a wake up call, this is a direct call to action for creators everywhere, especially the ones invested in preserving our culture and visibility in Puerto Rico.

Bad Bunny’s artistry goes beyond music—it's a masterclass in authenticity, community, and vulnerability. In a world that often rewards superficiality, he reminds us that true connection starts with being real. His short film Debí Tirar Más Fotos isn’t just a visual story; it’s an invitation to reflect on how we show up for our communities and document what matters most.

Benito reminds us that real impact in our communities starts when we understand the power of storytelling, intentional branding, and unwavering advocacy. Let’s break this down into actionable lessons for creators and community builders who want to amplify their voice and drive change.

This Siembra lesson unpacks the layers of his anti-colonial stance and how he turns his truth into impactful advocacy.

Bad Bunny’s anti-colonial stance is woven into everything he does. From political T-shirts to visuals steeped in Puerto Rican history, his brand screams authenticity. The film opens with Jacobo Morales digging up old photos—relics of a past that still defines who he is. This isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a reminder that your roots ground your purpose.

Think About It: What are your non-negotiables? What cultural, social, or personal elements make you who you are? When your story aligns with your advocacy, your message becomes undeniable.

When Morales walks through his old neighborhood, the gentrification speaks louder than any speech could. The familiar language is gone, replaced by English. Country music plays where bomba y plena used to reign. The bakery doesn’t even take cash anymore. Bad Bunny uses atmosphere to show how colonial dynamics seep into daily life.

Takeaway: You don’t always have to shout your message. Your visuals, collaborations, and the stories you choose to tell can be powerful forms of advocacy. Subtlety can resonate with those who need to feel seen.

In an era of “activist branding,” it’s easy to spot what’s fake. Bad Bunny’s advocacy resonates because it’s real. He didn’t wait for global fame to start speaking up for Puerto Rico—it’s always been part of who he is. In this film authenticity shows up in the quiet moments: worn streets, porch conversations, and the beat of reggaeton blasting from a red car.

Ask Yourself: Are you telling your real story? Your audience connects to your truth—not a polished, made-for-Instagram version. Share your roots, your setbacks, and your wins.

This short film reminds us that advocacy is about more than the present—it’s about the future. The title Debí Tirar Más Fotos reflects a bittersweet truth: when we don’t document our stories, they risk being erased. Benito’s work resists that erasure, preserving Puerto Rican identity through art.

Reflect: What do you want to leave behind? Your content, projects, and partnerships should speak to future generations about who you were and what you stood for.

Jacobo Morales wasn’t chosen at random. He’s a legendary storyteller who represents resilience and history. By giving Morales a central role, Benito amplifies the voice of someone who paved the way. It’s not about ego—it’s about honoring those who came before.

Take Action: Who can you uplift in your community? Collaboration is key to impactful advocacy. Use your platform to elevate voices that deserve the spotlight.

_{Note: for those who may remember, this is one of the activities out of the Audit, Align & Amplify course I developed during the pandemic. If you have done it before, consider revisiting this exercise based on where you stand today.}

Take a moment to reflect on these questions:

Sidebar… I would love to see your answers to these questions, email me if you are open to having a podcast conversation around your responses. Email [email protected] to start the conversation.

Bad Bunny’s Debí Tirar Más Fotos is more than a film—it’s a blueprint for turning vulnerability into advocacy and storytelling into purpose. It pushes us to create work that outlives trends and algorithms. Advocacy is about holding space for truth, documenting what matters, and staying true to who you are.

The album that follows this film by the same name is a heartfelt tribute to Puerto Rico’s complex beauty and resilience, blending Afro-Caribbean rhythms like plena with modern reggaetón to honor his roots. Inspired by the contrast between the island’s postcard-perfect appeal to tourists and the harsh realities locals face, Benito uses this project to reflect on love, loss, and identity, drawing parallels between fleeting relationships and Puerto Rico’s overlooked struggles.

At the peak of his global fame, Bad Bunny isn’t following trends—he’s amplifying his heritage, inviting the world to see Puerto Rico beyond the beaches and into its soul.

Thank you for your attention…

and for your action in whatever cause moves you to act.

Sieguimos creciendo,
George Torres

PS. Follow me @SiembraConnect on Instagram & Threads for more content in between newsletters.

PSS… Please share this newsletter with people you know are looking to become more visible in the creator space.

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