WHAT IS AN IMPORTANT QUALITY OF AN EFFECTIVE LEADER?

"In my opinion, a good leader, especially in the field of creating positive change, is one who is consistent and subservient to the needs of the people they serve. They are not leaders for power, ego, or even kindness; they have been put in a position to create positive change in the lives of the people in need. I try to bring this notion into every position of leadership I have held, with the focus always being on the people being served. For my Eagle Scout project, for example, I met with leaders in the community and designed a project based on their needs. At the Latin American Youth Center, where I teach a crochet class, I create lesson plans based on what the students need. In a phrase, I believe that consistently serving is leading." 

WHAT'S A COMMUNITY-BASED ISSUE THAT YOU CARE ABOUT?

"Working at the Latin American Youth Center for over a year now, and teaching high school students for a good portion of that, has given me a good understanding of the issues that DC youth, especially Latino youth, face today. One of these issues is youth empowerment. Especially during the current political and social climate in the US, Latino youth are feeling more hopeless and powerless than ever. They are scared of leaving their houses, going to social events, doing service, and essentially any other activity that involves being in public and active in the community. This lack of youth empowerment requires many people and many solutions, and each person should do what’s best to fix it based on their skills."

TELL US ABOUT SOMETHING OR SOMEONE THAT INSPIRES YOU?

"The human condition is struggle, and with that struggle comes change. 'Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable... Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.' – Martin Luther King Jr. I believe that every human being should utilize their experiences, skills, and passions in order to create a positive change in the places where they can be the most impactful. As I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, I have experienced firsthand the devastating effects of climate change, which developed a passion within me to help people affected by it. Additionally, I have been involved in public service since I was very little, and throughout high school I developed skills in writing and public speaking. Due to this, I believe that I can bring about the most change in international climate policy and advocacy, which is what I work towards every single day."