Living My Vision

I am a living vision of the future.

Can you imagine two young parents with a six year old son and three year old daughter? Imagine leaving the entire world you knew of and risking your family and health for the chance of a better future?

That’s exactly what my parents did.

They left their native country of Mexico so my siblings and I can attain an education and paint our personal vision for the future. Some 24 years later we are in the process of completing that American Dream. That six year old son and three year old daughter are Mexican-Americans leading others in the professional world. In the light of this news, a new member of my family will be joining the workforce soon as she will soon graduate from college, being the second member in our family with a four-year university degree.

Then there’s me.

With a strong family like mine, I knew I had to use my voice to get where I want to be. I knew I didn't face as many challenges most girls living in developing countries face or those of my parents. Though I live in an unincorporated community who thrives to be a city of its own and is constantly run through by Los Angeles Police Department and lately the S.W.A.T. team, all the schools I attended are within a mile radius. Education is at a walk and healthcare is at a mild distance. As a first generation Mexican-American, I knew I had the potential and tools to become the person I want to be – a successful and leading Latina in the United States of America that creates opportunities for other young women like me world-wide.

Since 2010 I’ve been a Teen Broadcast Citizen Journalist with Global Girl Media where I work with girls from South Africa and Morocco. In 2011 I was a Teen Advisor and now Youth Champion for the United Nations Foundation campaign called Girl Up where I am given the opportunity to channel my energy to help adolescent girls living in Malawi, Liberia, Ethiopia and Guatemala be safe, healthy, educated and counted. Taking internships with Latina US Congresswomen and attending Running Start’s Young Women’s Political Leadership program… I knew I had to do more.

After reading a Facebook post from the Girls20 Summit page, I knew I had to take part in this revolutionary web content. I know that sharing our stories is special because we are all unique individuals. I want to be able to connect with other women and further gain international experience. My ultimate goal after college is to run for office in these United States of America so I can help other women attain their goals through the legislative process. In order to be an effective politician, I know I need the help from my global sisters.

Including my nine year old sister who is learning to learn the meaning of female empowerment.