Blue Region
GOLD - Santiago Campos
SILVER - Isabella Corchiarino
BRONZE - Aina Traite Codina
Burgundy Region
GOLD - Joaquin Garcia
SILVER - August Zimmerman
BRONZE - Magali Roibon
Green Region
GOLD - Jordon Echevarria
SILVER - Victoria Puente
BRONZE - Lincoln Richey
Orange Region
GOLD - Lucas Miller
SILVER - Joshua Haynes
BRONZE - Izel De Jesus Sanchez
Pink Region
GOLD - Sophia Valdez
SILVER - Ian Mendez
BRONZE - Isabel Bernal
Purple Region
GOLD - Tomas Carranza
SILVER - Ethan Price
BRONZE - Marli Venegas
Red Region
GOLD - Mariana Prieto
SILVER - Josefina Eliessetch
BRONZE - Rihanna Bonilla
Tan Region
GOLD - Diego Ramos Rivera
SILVER - Kamila Gonzalez
BRONZE - Karolina Garcia
Teal Region
GOLD - Gianna Cid
SILVER - Ariana Espino
BRONZE - Lily Martinez
Yellow Region
GOLD - Solei Rodriguez
SILVER - Ramon Gonzalez
BRONZE - Gabriela Rodriguez Acosta
Blue Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Santiago Campos
Major: Journalism and International Relations
High School: District of Columbia International School
Hometown: Washington, DC
After taking a semester-long video production class in the ninth grade, Santiago Campos instantly fell in love with telling stories through video. Since then, he has achieved quite a lot, starting with joining the advanced class that ran the school-wide TV program, Dragon TV, at the District of Columbia International School. In this role, Santiago thrived, producing a wide range of segments, from profiles on new teachers to stories about fellow students. Along with learning how to operate professional video and audio equipment and editing software, he worked on exciting projects, including a short documentary about a nonprofit Cuban dance organization, a months-long production that taught him the essentials of shooting polished B-roll and developing a strong narrator voice.
It would be this same documentary that would lead to Santiago's proudest accomplishment in journalism and media. Although he submitted the work to the PBS News Student Reporting Labs, possibly for it to air on the NewsHour, it was not accepted because it did not fit the news cycle. However, the producers praised the high-quality production. That learning experience motivated him even more, and in his junior year, Santiago traveled to South Texas, where he spent six months producing a story about his family's deportation as U.S. Citizens in the 1950s and the lasting impact of immigration policy across four generations. Eventually, after two months of back-and-forth collaboration with senior producers, that piece aired nationally on PBS NewsHour.
Santiago, who comes from a multicultural background with Mexican and Spanish-Filipino roots, felt a sense of fulfillment knowing that he helped preserve a piece of history that raised awareness about a political issue deeply personal to him. Along with confirming that he could produce a work professional enough for national broadcast, the story won several awards, including second place at a local Anacostia Youth Media Film Festival, third place in the STN Nationals Short Documentary Category, a feature in Teen Vogue, and recognition as a category finalist at the All-American High School Film Festival.
Continuing to hone his craft, Santiago produced additional segments for Dragon TV that focused on intercultural communication and studying abroad in Colombia, where he continued post-production on the PBS NewsHour piece.
Santiago's Hispanic heritage also continues to have an important role in his approach to journalism and media. He credits being raised in a multicultural household for teaching him the importance of intercultural communication and learning from different perspectives. This outlook has shaped his media work, including interviews with exchange students from Taiwan, Argentina, France, and Spain, their host families, and American students returning from Germany and the Netherlands through Dragon TV. Sitting down with others whose lives differ from his has shown Santiago how much broader the world is beyond his own communities, as well as the similarities they share despite cultural differences. With a nod to his Mexican and immigrant family with strong moral values, Santiago says that they have also influenced the topics that he is passionate about, with a lot of his work focusing on Hispanic culture and political issues affecting immigrant communities, all of which further motivate him to continue telling stories that uplift underrepresented voices.
Beyond journalism and media, Santiago is also active at school as a member of the National Honor Society, Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, Gymkana Trampoline Gymnastics, Latinx Student Union, PG Pool Killer Whales Swim Team, and AFS Cultural Teams, and serves as a summer volunteer at Bread for the City, a local food pantry feeding those in need.
Regarding his exciting journey so far, Santiago, who will be the first in his family to attend college, shared, "These experiences have strengthened my commitment to media and my confidence in pursuing a future in storytelling." Next, Santiago plans on taking his pursuits to the next level at New York University, the University of Southern California, or Northwestern University, where he will major in journalism and international relations.
High School: District of Columbia International School
Hometown: Washington, DC
After taking a semester-long video production class in the ninth grade, Santiago Campos instantly fell in love with telling stories through video. Since then, he has achieved quite a lot, starting with joining the advanced class that ran the school-wide TV program, Dragon TV, at the District of Columbia International School. In this role, Santiago thrived, producing a wide range of segments, from profiles on new teachers to stories about fellow students. Along with learning how to operate professional video and audio equipment and editing software, he worked on exciting projects, including a short documentary about a nonprofit Cuban dance organization, a months-long production that taught him the essentials of shooting polished B-roll and developing a strong narrator voice.
It would be this same documentary that would lead to Santiago's proudest accomplishment in journalism and media. Although he submitted the work to the PBS News Student Reporting Labs, possibly for it to air on the NewsHour, it was not accepted because it did not fit the news cycle. However, the producers praised the high-quality production. That learning experience motivated him even more, and in his junior year, Santiago traveled to South Texas, where he spent six months producing a story about his family's deportation as U.S. Citizens in the 1950s and the lasting impact of immigration policy across four generations. Eventually, after two months of back-and-forth collaboration with senior producers, that piece aired nationally on PBS NewsHour.
Santiago, who comes from a multicultural background with Mexican and Spanish-Filipino roots, felt a sense of fulfillment knowing that he helped preserve a piece of history that raised awareness about a political issue deeply personal to him. Along with confirming that he could produce a work professional enough for national broadcast, the story won several awards, including second place at a local Anacostia Youth Media Film Festival, third place in the STN Nationals Short Documentary Category, a feature in Teen Vogue, and recognition as a category finalist at the All-American High School Film Festival.
Continuing to hone his craft, Santiago produced additional segments for Dragon TV that focused on intercultural communication and studying abroad in Colombia, where he continued post-production on the PBS NewsHour piece.
Santiago's Hispanic heritage also continues to have an important role in his approach to journalism and media. He credits being raised in a multicultural household for teaching him the importance of intercultural communication and learning from different perspectives. This outlook has shaped his media work, including interviews with exchange students from Taiwan, Argentina, France, and Spain, their host families, and American students returning from Germany and the Netherlands through Dragon TV. Sitting down with others whose lives differ from his has shown Santiago how much broader the world is beyond his own communities, as well as the similarities they share despite cultural differences. With a nod to his Mexican and immigrant family with strong moral values, Santiago says that they have also influenced the topics that he is passionate about, with a lot of his work focusing on Hispanic culture and political issues affecting immigrant communities, all of which further motivate him to continue telling stories that uplift underrepresented voices.
Beyond journalism and media, Santiago is also active at school as a member of the National Honor Society, Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, Gymkana Trampoline Gymnastics, Latinx Student Union, PG Pool Killer Whales Swim Team, and AFS Cultural Teams, and serves as a summer volunteer at Bread for the City, a local food pantry feeding those in need.
Regarding his exciting journey so far, Santiago, who will be the first in his family to attend college, shared, "These experiences have strengthened my commitment to media and my confidence in pursuing a future in storytelling." Next, Santiago plans on taking his pursuits to the next level at New York University, the University of Southern California, or Northwestern University, where he will major in journalism and international relations.
SILVER - Isabella Corchiarino
Major: Broadcast Journalism with minors in Government and Political Science
High School: Kent Island High School
Hometown: Stevensville, MD
Described by a supervising producer at Queen Anne's County Television (QACTV) as demonstrating a "rare blend of intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and raw talent that instantly sets her apart," Isabella Corchiarino is making waves in the newsroom. What began as an internship became a part-time job at the Maryland public television station in her senior year. At the station, the Kent Island High School student fully immersed herself, learning everything about live streaming, story development, script writing, editing, and camera work.
"On my first day, I truly felt I belonged. I have spent my life searching for my place and people. Entering this environment confirmed I was where I needed to be," Isabella says of the enriching, hands-on experience. Within a year, she advanced from intern to producer, creating full television segments, from idea to hosting and editing the final product.
Long before interning at QACTV, Isabella knew she wanted to work in the media after watching the TV show Gilmore Girls and seeing the main character, Rory, become a journalist, conduct investigations, become the newspaper editor, and head off to Yale University. While she can't explain exactly why it resonated so much, she knew she had found her life's calling. From then, Isabella cultivated her craft, starting out as the editor of her elementary school newspaper before taking classes in public speaking and debate. Other highlights include attending the Washington Journalism and Media Conference as a National Youth Correspondent, where she met like-minded peers and industry professionals.
Out of all her media moments, two give Isabella the greatest sense of pride thus far: creating an infomercial on Type 1 diabetes and producing a documentary on the football rivalry in her hometown. The pieces were supported with the help of her internship at QACTV. Isabella describes the experiences as hard work that offered training well beyond her years, which pushed her to overcome boundaries and realize her objectives. Additionally, the infomercial on Type 1 diabetes allowed her to raise awareness around the health condition and supported her youth advocacy work for Breakthrough T1D to reduce stigmatism around the disease and to show others that those with diabetes are so much more than their illness. Despite the positive reception of her infomercial, Isabella says that her work is far from done.
Active at school and in the community, Isabella also served as the captain of the JV women's soccer team, as a Sunday school teacher, and as a member of the Interact Club, Varsity Dance Team, and the National English Honor Society, among other organizations.
Excited to start her academic and professional journey, Isabella will attend Arizona State University, Towson University, or the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she will major in broadcast journalism and minor in government/political science.
High School: Kent Island High School
Hometown: Stevensville, MD
Described by a supervising producer at Queen Anne's County Television (QACTV) as demonstrating a "rare blend of intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and raw talent that instantly sets her apart," Isabella Corchiarino is making waves in the newsroom. What began as an internship became a part-time job at the Maryland public television station in her senior year. At the station, the Kent Island High School student fully immersed herself, learning everything about live streaming, story development, script writing, editing, and camera work.
"On my first day, I truly felt I belonged. I have spent my life searching for my place and people. Entering this environment confirmed I was where I needed to be," Isabella says of the enriching, hands-on experience. Within a year, she advanced from intern to producer, creating full television segments, from idea to hosting and editing the final product.
Long before interning at QACTV, Isabella knew she wanted to work in the media after watching the TV show Gilmore Girls and seeing the main character, Rory, become a journalist, conduct investigations, become the newspaper editor, and head off to Yale University. While she can't explain exactly why it resonated so much, she knew she had found her life's calling. From then, Isabella cultivated her craft, starting out as the editor of her elementary school newspaper before taking classes in public speaking and debate. Other highlights include attending the Washington Journalism and Media Conference as a National Youth Correspondent, where she met like-minded peers and industry professionals.
Out of all her media moments, two give Isabella the greatest sense of pride thus far: creating an infomercial on Type 1 diabetes and producing a documentary on the football rivalry in her hometown. The pieces were supported with the help of her internship at QACTV. Isabella describes the experiences as hard work that offered training well beyond her years, which pushed her to overcome boundaries and realize her objectives. Additionally, the infomercial on Type 1 diabetes allowed her to raise awareness around the health condition and supported her youth advocacy work for Breakthrough T1D to reduce stigmatism around the disease and to show others that those with diabetes are so much more than their illness. Despite the positive reception of her infomercial, Isabella says that her work is far from done.
Active at school and in the community, Isabella also served as the captain of the JV women's soccer team, as a Sunday school teacher, and as a member of the Interact Club, Varsity Dance Team, and the National English Honor Society, among other organizations.
Excited to start her academic and professional journey, Isabella will attend Arizona State University, Towson University, or the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she will major in broadcast journalism and minor in government/political science.
BRONZE - Aina Traite Codina
Major: Journalism with a minor in International Relations
High School: Deep Run High School
Hometown: Glen Allen, VA
Having lived and traveled throughout Sweden, Mexico, Spain, and the United States, Aina Traite Codina possesses a unique lens of people, places, and ideas. Reflecting on that important period growing up, she says, "With every move, I have learned how to listen before speaking, observe before acting, and understand before judging. All these cultural mixes are a perfect blend for me to be able to understand the world, and explain, write, and create about its beauty and diversity.”
Crossing borders, both in a literal and cultural sense, has enabled Aina to be very open-minded, and it is her dynamic upbringing and ability to adapt that have helped her with her journalistic pursuits. Through taking a journalism class and participating in a comprehensive summer course at The School of The New York Times, Aina discovered a love for journalism and storytelling.
Out of all her endeavors, the achievement that is most significant to Aina is her first story in the Deep Run High School newspaper, The Sentinel, in which she reviewed "A Complete Unknown," the Bob Dylan biopic starring Timothée Chalamet. The highly involved experience not only helped hone her research skills and strike a balance between fact and opinion, but it also led her to become the Entertainment and Culture Editor for The Sentinel, where she also continues to guide other student reporters, helping to enhance their work.
Synchronized swimming is another area where Aina excels, and the student-athlete even competed in the Junior Olympics. Through this sport and the challenging training that she endures, Aina has developed strength, overcome adversity, and eventually trusted in her own potential, all of which are incredible lessons she tries to share with the young girls she coaches at the YMCA.
In addition, Aina has earned state-level recognition, received multiple Technology Student Association photography awards, been inducted into the National Honor Society, worked as a YMCA lifeguard, and volunteered with the Mexico delegation at the Paris Paralympic Games, among other extracurricular activities.
Like her approach in journalism and athletics, Aina demonstrates discipline in her academic commitments and leadership roles in and out of the classroom. Along with pursuing a rigorous course load that includes AP, IB, honors, and dual-enrollment classes, she excels in AP Spanish and supports peers through collaborative learning. Fluent in Spanish, Catalan, and English, Aina also brings linguistic and cultural fluency into both her studies and leadership roles. Additionally, classes such as journalism honors, history, and psychology have helped her better understand people and the people she writes about in her articles.
A positive role model at school and in her community, Aina hopes that her contribution to media will be rooted in bridging cultures and perspectives, encouraging empathy, and fostering a supportive environment where everyone has the confidence to share their unique story. The next step to accomplishing that goal is pursuing a major in journalism and a minor in international relations at Fordham University, New York University, or Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
High School: Deep Run High School
Hometown: Glen Allen, VA
Having lived and traveled throughout Sweden, Mexico, Spain, and the United States, Aina Traite Codina possesses a unique lens of people, places, and ideas. Reflecting on that important period growing up, she says, "With every move, I have learned how to listen before speaking, observe before acting, and understand before judging. All these cultural mixes are a perfect blend for me to be able to understand the world, and explain, write, and create about its beauty and diversity.”
Crossing borders, both in a literal and cultural sense, has enabled Aina to be very open-minded, and it is her dynamic upbringing and ability to adapt that have helped her with her journalistic pursuits. Through taking a journalism class and participating in a comprehensive summer course at The School of The New York Times, Aina discovered a love for journalism and storytelling.
Out of all her endeavors, the achievement that is most significant to Aina is her first story in the Deep Run High School newspaper, The Sentinel, in which she reviewed "A Complete Unknown," the Bob Dylan biopic starring Timothée Chalamet. The highly involved experience not only helped hone her research skills and strike a balance between fact and opinion, but it also led her to become the Entertainment and Culture Editor for The Sentinel, where she also continues to guide other student reporters, helping to enhance their work.
Synchronized swimming is another area where Aina excels, and the student-athlete even competed in the Junior Olympics. Through this sport and the challenging training that she endures, Aina has developed strength, overcome adversity, and eventually trusted in her own potential, all of which are incredible lessons she tries to share with the young girls she coaches at the YMCA.
In addition, Aina has earned state-level recognition, received multiple Technology Student Association photography awards, been inducted into the National Honor Society, worked as a YMCA lifeguard, and volunteered with the Mexico delegation at the Paris Paralympic Games, among other extracurricular activities.
Like her approach in journalism and athletics, Aina demonstrates discipline in her academic commitments and leadership roles in and out of the classroom. Along with pursuing a rigorous course load that includes AP, IB, honors, and dual-enrollment classes, she excels in AP Spanish and supports peers through collaborative learning. Fluent in Spanish, Catalan, and English, Aina also brings linguistic and cultural fluency into both her studies and leadership roles. Additionally, classes such as journalism honors, history, and psychology have helped her better understand people and the people she writes about in her articles.
A positive role model at school and in her community, Aina hopes that her contribution to media will be rooted in bridging cultures and perspectives, encouraging empathy, and fostering a supportive environment where everyone has the confidence to share their unique story. The next step to accomplishing that goal is pursuing a major in journalism and a minor in international relations at Fordham University, New York University, or Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
Burgundy Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Joaquin Garcia
Major: Radio, Television, Film with a minor in Creative Writing
High School: Roma High School
Hometown: Roma, TX
After learning about the audio/video production classes at Roma High School, Joaquin Garcia signed up right away. Prior to enrolling, the aspiring filmmaker of Mexican descent would spend days wondering what he would do in his border town. "From there, so many unexpected doors opened up. My love for creating came back to me in a new and exciting way," he says of that period in his life. Along with enhancing his knowledge of the professional and technical aspects of the process, Joaquin also connected with like-minded individuals who shared his dream.
Since discovering his passion, the honor student continues to receive recognition for his work, including several awards, such as the 2025 SkillsUSA State Superior Solo Production, the Texas Association of Student Councils Top Video Award, Top 3 University Interscholastic League Feature Writing Qualifier, and Best Short Film for the 19th Annual GTN Awards.
As for the media accomplishment that stands out the most, Joaquin, who serves as the founder and president of his school's film club, says leading his video production team in the Business Professionals of America (BPA) was his proudest moment. For four months, the dedicated crew spent hours researching, interviewing, filming, revising, and editing. However, what brought Joaquin the most joy was not being named BPA Video Production Team National Alternate, but the experience of working and bonding with hardworking, talented people as they went from small-town underdogs to the top trio at the entire conference.
In a way, Joaquin's upbringing influenced his approach to filmmaking, teaching him to be resourceful as a storyteller. Any time he encountered limited access to equipment, collaborators, or locations, Joaquin quickly learned to adapt and create within the constraints around him. Notably balancing creativity with academic excellence, Joaquin maintains a 4.0 unweighted GPA while being deeply involved across multiple media and leadership roles on campus. In addition to film production, he serves as a journalist for the Gladiator Television Network and as a Journalism UIL Co-Captain, sharpening his reporting and storytelling skills across formats. Joaquin also takes on freelance graphic design projects, where he applies visual communication principles. Collectively, these experiences reflect a versatile student who can easily adapt to whatever his craft demands of him.
Filmmaking also plays a role in Joaquin's community service efforts. As a member of the student council and its energy and environmental committee chair, he has led cleanups, produced awareness videos, and helped launch a school-based recycling initiative with the sister city of Miguel Alemán, Mexico. Additionally, Joaquin applies his media skills by supporting live streams and broadcasts for city events, ranging from local stories to team sports, combining service with hands-on storytelling.
Joaquin is ready for the next act as he majors in radio, television, and film, and minors in creative writing at the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Texas at San Antonio, or the University of Southern California.
High School: Roma High School
Hometown: Roma, TX
After learning about the audio/video production classes at Roma High School, Joaquin Garcia signed up right away. Prior to enrolling, the aspiring filmmaker of Mexican descent would spend days wondering what he would do in his border town. "From there, so many unexpected doors opened up. My love for creating came back to me in a new and exciting way," he says of that period in his life. Along with enhancing his knowledge of the professional and technical aspects of the process, Joaquin also connected with like-minded individuals who shared his dream.
Since discovering his passion, the honor student continues to receive recognition for his work, including several awards, such as the 2025 SkillsUSA State Superior Solo Production, the Texas Association of Student Councils Top Video Award, Top 3 University Interscholastic League Feature Writing Qualifier, and Best Short Film for the 19th Annual GTN Awards.
As for the media accomplishment that stands out the most, Joaquin, who serves as the founder and president of his school's film club, says leading his video production team in the Business Professionals of America (BPA) was his proudest moment. For four months, the dedicated crew spent hours researching, interviewing, filming, revising, and editing. However, what brought Joaquin the most joy was not being named BPA Video Production Team National Alternate, but the experience of working and bonding with hardworking, talented people as they went from small-town underdogs to the top trio at the entire conference.
In a way, Joaquin's upbringing influenced his approach to filmmaking, teaching him to be resourceful as a storyteller. Any time he encountered limited access to equipment, collaborators, or locations, Joaquin quickly learned to adapt and create within the constraints around him. Notably balancing creativity with academic excellence, Joaquin maintains a 4.0 unweighted GPA while being deeply involved across multiple media and leadership roles on campus. In addition to film production, he serves as a journalist for the Gladiator Television Network and as a Journalism UIL Co-Captain, sharpening his reporting and storytelling skills across formats. Joaquin also takes on freelance graphic design projects, where he applies visual communication principles. Collectively, these experiences reflect a versatile student who can easily adapt to whatever his craft demands of him.
Filmmaking also plays a role in Joaquin's community service efforts. As a member of the student council and its energy and environmental committee chair, he has led cleanups, produced awareness videos, and helped launch a school-based recycling initiative with the sister city of Miguel Alemán, Mexico. Additionally, Joaquin applies his media skills by supporting live streams and broadcasts for city events, ranging from local stories to team sports, combining service with hands-on storytelling.
Joaquin is ready for the next act as he majors in radio, television, and film, and minors in creative writing at the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Texas at San Antonio, or the University of Southern California.
SILVER - August Zimmerman
Major: Screenwriting and Film with a minor in Creative Writing
High School: Waco High School
Hometown: Waco, TX
Wanting to learn about screenwriting and the broader film world, August Zimmerman signed up for the audio-visual class at his high school and sparked his interest in journalism and media. Soon, August would become the camera operator before quickly advancing to director of the sports media team, filming games, guiding others, and controlling the feeds that would appear on the Jumbotron. Through this experience, he gained valuable technical skills, from setting up equipment to editing footage and creating promos, before expanding his scope of work to include writing, directing, filming, and editing for both AV and sports media, which contributed to his passion for filmmaking.
In his junior year, August tapped into his technical ability and creative passion to co-write, direct, and edit a short film, "The Puzzle," with his film partner. The collaboration proved successful, winning first place in the Narrative Short Film category in the local Bill Taverner Interscholastic Film Festival, which validated their efforts beyond their own appreciation of the film. As a result of this achievement, the stellar student, who is of Mexican and Swedish descent, is even more interested in pursuing a career in the field.
As for the accomplishment that makes August the proudest, it is his first original screenplay, "Marriage," a passion project fueled by his enjoyment of writing. "This screenplay let loose so much pent-up creativity and imagination," he says. "I was entirely consumed by the story I was creating, and this limitless passion is the most significant part of this feat.”
August acknowledges his parents as positive influences in helping shape his outlook and approach. Growing up immersed in diverse cultures through film, music, and travel taught him to approach the world with curiosity and empathy. Through his upbringing, August discovered the universality of storytelling, which inspired his desire to explore multicultural relationships and perspectives through media and entertainment. Specifically, he believes stories are most powerful when they reflect more than one experience and connect across cultures.
Alongside his creative pursuits, August is deeply involved in leadership and community service as a member of the Waco High School Student Council, Varsity Boys Tennis Team, and the Waco City Youth Council. With the latter, August has helped propose solutions to address a pressing problem he sees in his community: a lack of nutrition, including the creation of a community garden designed to educate residents about healthy food access in a food desert environment. Academically, August has received several honors, including the College Board School Recognition Award and being named a Waco ISD Superintendent Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction, among others.
August has discovered his true calling and will soon take the next steps to make it a reality as he majors in screenwriting and film and minors in creative writing at the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Southern California, or New York University.
High School: Waco High School
Hometown: Waco, TX
Wanting to learn about screenwriting and the broader film world, August Zimmerman signed up for the audio-visual class at his high school and sparked his interest in journalism and media. Soon, August would become the camera operator before quickly advancing to director of the sports media team, filming games, guiding others, and controlling the feeds that would appear on the Jumbotron. Through this experience, he gained valuable technical skills, from setting up equipment to editing footage and creating promos, before expanding his scope of work to include writing, directing, filming, and editing for both AV and sports media, which contributed to his passion for filmmaking.
In his junior year, August tapped into his technical ability and creative passion to co-write, direct, and edit a short film, "The Puzzle," with his film partner. The collaboration proved successful, winning first place in the Narrative Short Film category in the local Bill Taverner Interscholastic Film Festival, which validated their efforts beyond their own appreciation of the film. As a result of this achievement, the stellar student, who is of Mexican and Swedish descent, is even more interested in pursuing a career in the field.
As for the accomplishment that makes August the proudest, it is his first original screenplay, "Marriage," a passion project fueled by his enjoyment of writing. "This screenplay let loose so much pent-up creativity and imagination," he says. "I was entirely consumed by the story I was creating, and this limitless passion is the most significant part of this feat.”
August acknowledges his parents as positive influences in helping shape his outlook and approach. Growing up immersed in diverse cultures through film, music, and travel taught him to approach the world with curiosity and empathy. Through his upbringing, August discovered the universality of storytelling, which inspired his desire to explore multicultural relationships and perspectives through media and entertainment. Specifically, he believes stories are most powerful when they reflect more than one experience and connect across cultures.
Alongside his creative pursuits, August is deeply involved in leadership and community service as a member of the Waco High School Student Council, Varsity Boys Tennis Team, and the Waco City Youth Council. With the latter, August has helped propose solutions to address a pressing problem he sees in his community: a lack of nutrition, including the creation of a community garden designed to educate residents about healthy food access in a food desert environment. Academically, August has received several honors, including the College Board School Recognition Award and being named a Waco ISD Superintendent Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction, among others.
August has discovered his true calling and will soon take the next steps to make it a reality as he majors in screenwriting and film and minors in creative writing at the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Southern California, or New York University.
BRONZE - Magali Roibon
Major: Journalism with a minor in Languages
High School: Alamo Height High School
Hometown: San Antonio, TX
A love for writing began in the first grade for Magali Roibon. Although she found tremendous satisfaction in penning original stories at an early age, it was not until she was a freshman in high school that Magali realized that she could pursue a career in a craft that meant so much to her. The epiphany occurred during a journalism class after completing an editorial article assignment. The exceptional student of Argentine descent wrote about the benefits of being bilingual, a subject that she is extremely passionate about. A few days later, her teacher came up to her to tell her that she loved the article so much that she wanted to have it published in the school newspaper. Ecstatic, Magali immediately replied yes, admitting that she still feels that sense of joy. Regarding that significant moment, she said, "I realized that I loved writing about issues in the world for people to read, and that other people enjoyed reading what I had to say on different topics.”
Soon after, the promising young journalist was asked to participate in the University Interscholastic League journalism contest, where she finished first in the district in the editorial category and second for headlines. The experience confirmed her desire to be a journalist, so Magali officially joined the Alamo Heights High School newspaper, where she is now the Co-Editor-in-Chief. She considers leading the Hoof Print staff and writing about issues around the country and close to home to be her proudest accomplishment in her category to date. For example, one article that still resonates with her is reporting on how San Antonio is one of the hottest cities and the implications of global warming. Through it all, Magali shares that she proved her dedication and love for news and journalism.
As for how her upbringing impacted how she approaches journalism and media, Magali reveals that growing up, people did not really talk about how American society treated Hispanics and women as somehow less than in their daily lives. While she says it was not always obvious, as a child, she felt how others looked at her community as different. This awareness led her to develop a sense of justice, which inspired her to write about problems affecting a broad spectrum of people. Magali also added that her background allowed her to tell stories from different angles that people do not immediately consider.
While Magali views journalism as a form of service, believing that telling important stories can inspire awareness and action, she also carries this sense of responsibility into community service. Motivated by concerns around climate change, social division, and the desire to make the world even slightly better for others, the mindful AP Scholar does her part to give back by volunteering as a coach and mentor with Girls on the Run and serving as an officer for the school orchestra, where she helps support its success, with the understanding that music can unite people and bring joy and light during challenging times, while also making sure that young musicians at elementary and middle schools across the district have everything they need for their concerts.
With a strong sense of justice and her love for writing about what is happening in the world, Magali is ready to expand her vision and voice. The next chapter in her exciting journey is attending the University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University, or the University of North Texas, where she will major in journalism with a minor in languages.
High School: Alamo Height High School
Hometown: San Antonio, TX
A love for writing began in the first grade for Magali Roibon. Although she found tremendous satisfaction in penning original stories at an early age, it was not until she was a freshman in high school that Magali realized that she could pursue a career in a craft that meant so much to her. The epiphany occurred during a journalism class after completing an editorial article assignment. The exceptional student of Argentine descent wrote about the benefits of being bilingual, a subject that she is extremely passionate about. A few days later, her teacher came up to her to tell her that she loved the article so much that she wanted to have it published in the school newspaper. Ecstatic, Magali immediately replied yes, admitting that she still feels that sense of joy. Regarding that significant moment, she said, "I realized that I loved writing about issues in the world for people to read, and that other people enjoyed reading what I had to say on different topics.”
Soon after, the promising young journalist was asked to participate in the University Interscholastic League journalism contest, where she finished first in the district in the editorial category and second for headlines. The experience confirmed her desire to be a journalist, so Magali officially joined the Alamo Heights High School newspaper, where she is now the Co-Editor-in-Chief. She considers leading the Hoof Print staff and writing about issues around the country and close to home to be her proudest accomplishment in her category to date. For example, one article that still resonates with her is reporting on how San Antonio is one of the hottest cities and the implications of global warming. Through it all, Magali shares that she proved her dedication and love for news and journalism.
As for how her upbringing impacted how she approaches journalism and media, Magali reveals that growing up, people did not really talk about how American society treated Hispanics and women as somehow less than in their daily lives. While she says it was not always obvious, as a child, she felt how others looked at her community as different. This awareness led her to develop a sense of justice, which inspired her to write about problems affecting a broad spectrum of people. Magali also added that her background allowed her to tell stories from different angles that people do not immediately consider.
While Magali views journalism as a form of service, believing that telling important stories can inspire awareness and action, she also carries this sense of responsibility into community service. Motivated by concerns around climate change, social division, and the desire to make the world even slightly better for others, the mindful AP Scholar does her part to give back by volunteering as a coach and mentor with Girls on the Run and serving as an officer for the school orchestra, where she helps support its success, with the understanding that music can unite people and bring joy and light during challenging times, while also making sure that young musicians at elementary and middle schools across the district have everything they need for their concerts.
With a strong sense of justice and her love for writing about what is happening in the world, Magali is ready to expand her vision and voice. The next chapter in her exciting journey is attending the University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University, or the University of North Texas, where she will major in journalism with a minor in languages.
Green Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Jordon Echevarria
Major: Human Rights and Environmental Science with a minor in Film, Media Studies
High School: Englewood High School
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Motivated to change more minds, Jordon Echevarria created "4FGLIStudents," an online platform with over five hundred followers dedicated to expanding access to educational opportunities for first-generation and low-income (FGLI) students. Inspired by his own experiences, the inspiring student of Puerto Rican descent shares tips, college preparation programs, scholarships, and other essential details with other underclassmen who may not otherwise have readily available access to such information. Looking ahead, he hopes to advance his contribution by growing as a content creator throughout his time in college, and said, "I fully recognize that it is through the continued support of Latino students that I will succeed in my platform's mission to support FGLI students all over the nation.”
As for the accomplishment that makes him the proudest, it happened when he stepped in front of a camera as an advisor to the regional superintendent, recording "Wellness Wednesday," mental health segments that aired across all the high schools in the district. Reaching more than 35,000 students, the videos enabled him to speak on behalf of his peers who often felt unseen, using media not for attention, but as a tool to normalize conversations around mental health and create space for understanding and support.
Jordon also credits his upbringing for his success and drive. Growing up as a first-generation, low-income student and the youngest of six, he often felt pressure to perform well because his siblings did not attend college. However, courage replaced anxiety, and he smiles knowing that by improving his own mental health, he is also helping others with theirs through his platform.
Highly involved at school and in his community, Jordon also participates in several extracurricular activities, including overseeing the Thrive Scholars Cohort 2030 social media page, serving as the publicity manager for the Gay-Straight Alliance Club, regional superintendent student advisor for JAGS, and president of Englewood High School's Student Council. At a young age, he has already received recognition, including the ProStart Hospitality of Excellence Award, an Industry Scholars Designation, first-place champion in the UNF Ethics Academy, Ethics Bowl, and being named a Florida Blue Center for Ethics Junior Scholar over the years.
Several of these experiences are grounded in moments from everyday life, including time spent at his neighborhood laundromat, where listening to stories of working families gave him an intimate insight into acts of service. That perspective would later guide his leadership as President of Academic & Community Excellence, a district-wide working group focused on addressing overcrowding in local high schools. As the first high school student elected to lead the committee, he helped narrow down school boundaries and bring a student voice, ultimately contributing to improved learning conditions for more than 11,000 students. It makes him happy knowing that his efforts to help students feel seen and valued all started in his Hispanic community's busy, coin-clinking laundromat.
With his commitment to helping marginalized communities, positive mindset, and hard work, Jordon is ready to take the next step in his exciting journey. He plans to attend Columbia University, the University of Southern California, or Swarthmore College, where he will major in human rights and environmental science and minor in film and media studies.
High School: Englewood High School
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Motivated to change more minds, Jordon Echevarria created "4FGLIStudents," an online platform with over five hundred followers dedicated to expanding access to educational opportunities for first-generation and low-income (FGLI) students. Inspired by his own experiences, the inspiring student of Puerto Rican descent shares tips, college preparation programs, scholarships, and other essential details with other underclassmen who may not otherwise have readily available access to such information. Looking ahead, he hopes to advance his contribution by growing as a content creator throughout his time in college, and said, "I fully recognize that it is through the continued support of Latino students that I will succeed in my platform's mission to support FGLI students all over the nation.”
As for the accomplishment that makes him the proudest, it happened when he stepped in front of a camera as an advisor to the regional superintendent, recording "Wellness Wednesday," mental health segments that aired across all the high schools in the district. Reaching more than 35,000 students, the videos enabled him to speak on behalf of his peers who often felt unseen, using media not for attention, but as a tool to normalize conversations around mental health and create space for understanding and support.
Jordon also credits his upbringing for his success and drive. Growing up as a first-generation, low-income student and the youngest of six, he often felt pressure to perform well because his siblings did not attend college. However, courage replaced anxiety, and he smiles knowing that by improving his own mental health, he is also helping others with theirs through his platform.
Highly involved at school and in his community, Jordon also participates in several extracurricular activities, including overseeing the Thrive Scholars Cohort 2030 social media page, serving as the publicity manager for the Gay-Straight Alliance Club, regional superintendent student advisor for JAGS, and president of Englewood High School's Student Council. At a young age, he has already received recognition, including the ProStart Hospitality of Excellence Award, an Industry Scholars Designation, first-place champion in the UNF Ethics Academy, Ethics Bowl, and being named a Florida Blue Center for Ethics Junior Scholar over the years.
Several of these experiences are grounded in moments from everyday life, including time spent at his neighborhood laundromat, where listening to stories of working families gave him an intimate insight into acts of service. That perspective would later guide his leadership as President of Academic & Community Excellence, a district-wide working group focused on addressing overcrowding in local high schools. As the first high school student elected to lead the committee, he helped narrow down school boundaries and bring a student voice, ultimately contributing to improved learning conditions for more than 11,000 students. It makes him happy knowing that his efforts to help students feel seen and valued all started in his Hispanic community's busy, coin-clinking laundromat.
With his commitment to helping marginalized communities, positive mindset, and hard work, Jordon is ready to take the next step in his exciting journey. He plans to attend Columbia University, the University of Southern California, or Swarthmore College, where he will major in human rights and environmental science and minor in film and media studies.
SILVER - Victoria Puente
Major: Communications with a minor in Business
High School: Our Lady of Lourdes Academy
Hometown: South Miami, FL
At ten years old, Victoria Puente discovered her mom's old Canon camera in her family's garage. Curious, she began taking photos of everything in sight around her home, drawn to preserving what she saw. That same instinct led her to a broadcast journalism elective when her middle school launched one in seventh grade. But this time, it wasn't just about capturing moments; it was about sharing them. On the first day, her teacher told her he saw potential she didn't yet see in herself and encouraged her to write scripts, step in front of the camera, and produce morning announcements. Through creating content for an audience, she realized that sharing these moments could have real impact on others, and she knew she wanted to keep building in this direction.
In high school, she pursued that goal through CCNN Live, a nationally recognized broadcast journalism program at a nearby all-boys school. As one of only two girls on the team, she worked twice as hard to prove herself, covering live sports, producing feature stories, and competing in national contests. Each experience deepened her resilience, leadership, and confidence, reinforcing her belief that media is more than storytelling; it is a way to empower others.
For Victoria, that belief is personal. Growing up in a Cuban-American family, she learned early that storytelling is how her community keeps its culture alive. Her family had left Cuba long before her parents were born, carrying almost nothing with them, and the stories passed down through generations became their way of preserving identity and connection. Those accounts shaped her perspective and her love for the craft. Acknowledging her upbringing, she shared, "My heritage does not just influence how I tell stories. It is my 'why.' It helps me ensure that every voice, especially those from underrepresented communities, is seen, heard, and valued.”
With this clarity, she built what she considers to be her proudest accomplishment in media: co-founding and serving as a board member of Mindset for Media. The vision behind it all was to create a nonprofit that would make media literacy and production accessible to students nationwide. Specifically, the organization works to remove barriers by funding scholarships, offering access to equipment, and covering contest registration fees for student media competitions. Through this work, she has an intimate understanding of how access to media helps students gain confidence as they discover their ability to share their truth. She also believes that with Mindset for Media, she can pass that gift forward. For her, helping others through storytelling reminds her that media is not only about informing an audience, but also about transforming lives.
Along with her nonprofit work, Victoria maintains a demanding academic and extracurricular schedule. Her rigorous course load includes AP English Language and Composition, as well as honors classes in broadcast journalism, business and entrepreneurship, psychology, and leadership skills. She also serves as Yearbook Editor, President of the Multimedia Club, Contest Coordinator for all Lourdes publications, and is a member of the CCNN Live Broadcast Journalism National Team. Outside of school, she serves as a Miami-Dade Youth Commissioner.
As a result of her commitment to media excellence, Victoria received multiple honors over the years, including STN Documentary of the Year, induction into the Quill and Scroll Honor Society, the NSPA Leadership Award in Student Journalism, and the Florida Scholastic Press Association All-Florida Award.
Being of service is an especially important aspect of her life. Through her involvement with Live Like Bella Childhood Cancer Foundation as its founder and president, she supports children battling cancer and their families through hospital visits, meal deliveries, and the creation of hand-tied prayer blankets. These experiences also taught her that service means showing up, being present, and leading with love. They deepened her empathy, strengthened her faith, and continued to guide her sense of purpose.
Excited about the future, Victoria wants to elevate voices like those in her own family that are not always heard but have powerful stories to tell. As she heads off to Florida State University, the University of Florida, or the University of Alabama to major in communications with a minor in business, she hopes to continue creating opportunities that ensure every voice, regardless of background, has the chance to be heard.
High School: Our Lady of Lourdes Academy
Hometown: South Miami, FL
At ten years old, Victoria Puente discovered her mom's old Canon camera in her family's garage. Curious, she began taking photos of everything in sight around her home, drawn to preserving what she saw. That same instinct led her to a broadcast journalism elective when her middle school launched one in seventh grade. But this time, it wasn't just about capturing moments; it was about sharing them. On the first day, her teacher told her he saw potential she didn't yet see in herself and encouraged her to write scripts, step in front of the camera, and produce morning announcements. Through creating content for an audience, she realized that sharing these moments could have real impact on others, and she knew she wanted to keep building in this direction.
In high school, she pursued that goal through CCNN Live, a nationally recognized broadcast journalism program at a nearby all-boys school. As one of only two girls on the team, she worked twice as hard to prove herself, covering live sports, producing feature stories, and competing in national contests. Each experience deepened her resilience, leadership, and confidence, reinforcing her belief that media is more than storytelling; it is a way to empower others.
For Victoria, that belief is personal. Growing up in a Cuban-American family, she learned early that storytelling is how her community keeps its culture alive. Her family had left Cuba long before her parents were born, carrying almost nothing with them, and the stories passed down through generations became their way of preserving identity and connection. Those accounts shaped her perspective and her love for the craft. Acknowledging her upbringing, she shared, "My heritage does not just influence how I tell stories. It is my 'why.' It helps me ensure that every voice, especially those from underrepresented communities, is seen, heard, and valued.”
With this clarity, she built what she considers to be her proudest accomplishment in media: co-founding and serving as a board member of Mindset for Media. The vision behind it all was to create a nonprofit that would make media literacy and production accessible to students nationwide. Specifically, the organization works to remove barriers by funding scholarships, offering access to equipment, and covering contest registration fees for student media competitions. Through this work, she has an intimate understanding of how access to media helps students gain confidence as they discover their ability to share their truth. She also believes that with Mindset for Media, she can pass that gift forward. For her, helping others through storytelling reminds her that media is not only about informing an audience, but also about transforming lives.
Along with her nonprofit work, Victoria maintains a demanding academic and extracurricular schedule. Her rigorous course load includes AP English Language and Composition, as well as honors classes in broadcast journalism, business and entrepreneurship, psychology, and leadership skills. She also serves as Yearbook Editor, President of the Multimedia Club, Contest Coordinator for all Lourdes publications, and is a member of the CCNN Live Broadcast Journalism National Team. Outside of school, she serves as a Miami-Dade Youth Commissioner.
As a result of her commitment to media excellence, Victoria received multiple honors over the years, including STN Documentary of the Year, induction into the Quill and Scroll Honor Society, the NSPA Leadership Award in Student Journalism, and the Florida Scholastic Press Association All-Florida Award.
Being of service is an especially important aspect of her life. Through her involvement with Live Like Bella Childhood Cancer Foundation as its founder and president, she supports children battling cancer and their families through hospital visits, meal deliveries, and the creation of hand-tied prayer blankets. These experiences also taught her that service means showing up, being present, and leading with love. They deepened her empathy, strengthened her faith, and continued to guide her sense of purpose.
Excited about the future, Victoria wants to elevate voices like those in her own family that are not always heard but have powerful stories to tell. As she heads off to Florida State University, the University of Florida, or the University of Alabama to major in communications with a minor in business, she hopes to continue creating opportunities that ensure every voice, regardless of background, has the chance to be heard.
BRONZE - Lincoln Richey
Major: Film with a minor in Marketing
High School: Whitewater High School
Hometown: Brooks, GA
After pouring himself into all things film and media throughout high school, whether working on television announcement programming, spending Friday nights on the sidelines as the senior cameraman for the football team, and earning an award for the highest GPA in the film program, Lincoln Richey saw his hard work pay off. The emerging filmmaker was one of only two people out of nearly 1,500 applicants selected for a competitive internship at Trilith Studios, home to major Marvel and Netflix productions. Currently, he is working with a department that supports the growth of new filmmakers, an experience that aligns with his dream of pursuing a career in filmmaking after college. "This internship is meaningful to me not just because it represents years of passion, discipline, and working towards my dreams. It has deepened my love for filmmaking even more and shown me the true power of storytelling within me," he shared, reflecting on his media accomplishment that makes him beam with pride.
While Lincoln has always possessed a simple love of movies, he credits the deepening of his love of film and media to his film teacher, who introduced him to what storytelling looked like behind the scenes. Along with showing him patience, passion, and belief, this supportive mentor trusted him, then a freshman, to be the cameraman for the varsity football team. Through that four-year experience, the dedicated student learned how to think visually, stay steady under pressure, and capture the moments that mattered.
From there, his involvement in the film craft grew, and he began producing and filming content for WETV, Whitewater High School's television program, watched by the entire student body and faculty. By creating fun and insightful segments, he discovered the power of media. Since then, he has been a presenter at WHS Unleashed, where he shared his experience in the AV/film department, among other endeavors. Outside of school, he created short films and animations for Sunyside on social media, which inspired him to experiment with style and visual storytelling. Along with his invaluable internship, all these experiences have expanded his overall understanding of the industry, strengthened his passion, and prepared him for higher learning and his future career.
Beyond the classroom and the camera, Lincoln's commitment to service parallels the same values that guide his interest in film and storytelling. Through his work at local food banks and nonprofit thrift stores, he observed how poverty and job loss affect families in his community. While he understands that organizations provide help in the short-term, he believes long-term change comes from greater awareness, education, and community involvement. Armed with this belief, he hopes that film and media can bring attention to these issues and encourage others to get involved.
Of course, giving back has never felt like something Lincoln had to do, but rather something he genuinely wanted to do. For instance, he has completed more than one hundred hours of community service, volunteering weekly at Second Chance and Clothes Less Traveled, packing meals at Mid-West Food Bank, and making handmade blankets for Project Snuggle. Additionally, he has helped with hurricane relief efforts, food and toy drives, and served his school community as a Whitewater Ambassador, student council member, math tutor, and Key Club participant. Each moment has confirmed that service is part of his story, and that storytelling can be a meaningful way to support others and give them a voice.
As for the next act, he is looking forward to expanding his knowledge by majoring in film and minoring in marketing at Georgia State University, the University of West Georgia, or Kennesaw State University.
High School: Whitewater High School
Hometown: Brooks, GA
After pouring himself into all things film and media throughout high school, whether working on television announcement programming, spending Friday nights on the sidelines as the senior cameraman for the football team, and earning an award for the highest GPA in the film program, Lincoln Richey saw his hard work pay off. The emerging filmmaker was one of only two people out of nearly 1,500 applicants selected for a competitive internship at Trilith Studios, home to major Marvel and Netflix productions. Currently, he is working with a department that supports the growth of new filmmakers, an experience that aligns with his dream of pursuing a career in filmmaking after college. "This internship is meaningful to me not just because it represents years of passion, discipline, and working towards my dreams. It has deepened my love for filmmaking even more and shown me the true power of storytelling within me," he shared, reflecting on his media accomplishment that makes him beam with pride.
While Lincoln has always possessed a simple love of movies, he credits the deepening of his love of film and media to his film teacher, who introduced him to what storytelling looked like behind the scenes. Along with showing him patience, passion, and belief, this supportive mentor trusted him, then a freshman, to be the cameraman for the varsity football team. Through that four-year experience, the dedicated student learned how to think visually, stay steady under pressure, and capture the moments that mattered.
From there, his involvement in the film craft grew, and he began producing and filming content for WETV, Whitewater High School's television program, watched by the entire student body and faculty. By creating fun and insightful segments, he discovered the power of media. Since then, he has been a presenter at WHS Unleashed, where he shared his experience in the AV/film department, among other endeavors. Outside of school, he created short films and animations for Sunyside on social media, which inspired him to experiment with style and visual storytelling. Along with his invaluable internship, all these experiences have expanded his overall understanding of the industry, strengthened his passion, and prepared him for higher learning and his future career.
Beyond the classroom and the camera, Lincoln's commitment to service parallels the same values that guide his interest in film and storytelling. Through his work at local food banks and nonprofit thrift stores, he observed how poverty and job loss affect families in his community. While he understands that organizations provide help in the short-term, he believes long-term change comes from greater awareness, education, and community involvement. Armed with this belief, he hopes that film and media can bring attention to these issues and encourage others to get involved.
Of course, giving back has never felt like something Lincoln had to do, but rather something he genuinely wanted to do. For instance, he has completed more than one hundred hours of community service, volunteering weekly at Second Chance and Clothes Less Traveled, packing meals at Mid-West Food Bank, and making handmade blankets for Project Snuggle. Additionally, he has helped with hurricane relief efforts, food and toy drives, and served his school community as a Whitewater Ambassador, student council member, math tutor, and Key Club participant. Each moment has confirmed that service is part of his story, and that storytelling can be a meaningful way to support others and give them a voice.
As for the next act, he is looking forward to expanding his knowledge by majoring in film and minoring in marketing at Georgia State University, the University of West Georgia, or Kennesaw State University.
Orange Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Lucas Miller
Major: Communications with a minor in Digital Media Production
High School: Chelsea High School
Hometown: Chelsea, AL
Always fascinated by how a simple story can move people and how beautiful it can be when such a story is presented in the right way, Lucas Miller has an affinity for movies and more. However, it was an early experience of creating a short film in elementary school that put him on the trajectory of digital media production. Soon after, this project sparked his love for filmmaking and content creation overall.
As a freshman, the rising Cuban-American became a reporter for the Chelsea Buzz, the online news site for his high school. Not only did this experience help broaden his love for storytelling, but it also allowed him to gain experience getting out of his shell and connecting with others around him. Naturally, he discovered that there are many incredible stories waiting in the real world, itching to be told. "This experience inspired me to continue my storytelling passion through human connections and journalistic practices," he said, adding that it, along with his continued love for film, has shaped his desire to study digital media and broadcast in college and to pursue this professional field.
Building on that foundation, he cites his participation in the Starnes Media Creator Collective as his proudest achievement in journalism and media to date. Selected in March 2025 as one of just twelve high school students in Central Alabama through a competitive application and interview process, he collaborated with seasoned media professionals to produce real-world content and cover events within his community. Through the program, he conducted video interviews that contributed to an article published in 280 Living, while also gaining direct storytelling and production knowledge from film professional mentors by his side, some of whom worked for major networks such as CBS and ESPN. Firsthand insights only strengthened his confidence in pursuing a future in media, and he appreciated the mentorship, encouragement, and connections along the way.
Interestingly, his perspective on media and storytelling is closely tied to his family's background. His grandparents and great-grandparents immigrated to the United States from Cuba and Honduras to escape an oppressive government, arriving with very few possessions in pursuit of social liberty and economic opportunity. Through hard work, they were able to build stable lives, a journey that is reflected most clearly in the path of his great-grandfather, who went on to serve as Press Secretary to two U.S. presidents, fulfilling his long-held goal of success in media and journalism. That example continues to motivate Lucas, who says it influences how he approaches challenges and continues to push him to stay focused on his goals in media and storytelling.
Deeply connected to Chelsea, Alabama, Lucas enjoys giving back to the community he has called home his entire life. Inspired by his parents, who have taught and coached in the area for decades, he sees service as both a responsibility and an honor. Through Chelsea High School Peer Helpers, he has helped organize drives, fundraisers, and school events that support local charities, mental health organizations, and promote unity. He was also involved with other initiatives in the area, including the Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy, the Jimmi Hale Mission, and volunteering with the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama. Outside of service, he is active through Church of the Highlands 252 Leadership, American Legion Alabama Boys' State, and as a member of the Chelsea High School boys' soccer team.
Lucas is well on his way to success, and his next step will be pursuing a major in communications and a minor in digital media production at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Lee University, or the University of South Alabama.
High School: Chelsea High School
Hometown: Chelsea, AL
Always fascinated by how a simple story can move people and how beautiful it can be when such a story is presented in the right way, Lucas Miller has an affinity for movies and more. However, it was an early experience of creating a short film in elementary school that put him on the trajectory of digital media production. Soon after, this project sparked his love for filmmaking and content creation overall.
As a freshman, the rising Cuban-American became a reporter for the Chelsea Buzz, the online news site for his high school. Not only did this experience help broaden his love for storytelling, but it also allowed him to gain experience getting out of his shell and connecting with others around him. Naturally, he discovered that there are many incredible stories waiting in the real world, itching to be told. "This experience inspired me to continue my storytelling passion through human connections and journalistic practices," he said, adding that it, along with his continued love for film, has shaped his desire to study digital media and broadcast in college and to pursue this professional field.
Building on that foundation, he cites his participation in the Starnes Media Creator Collective as his proudest achievement in journalism and media to date. Selected in March 2025 as one of just twelve high school students in Central Alabama through a competitive application and interview process, he collaborated with seasoned media professionals to produce real-world content and cover events within his community. Through the program, he conducted video interviews that contributed to an article published in 280 Living, while also gaining direct storytelling and production knowledge from film professional mentors by his side, some of whom worked for major networks such as CBS and ESPN. Firsthand insights only strengthened his confidence in pursuing a future in media, and he appreciated the mentorship, encouragement, and connections along the way.
Interestingly, his perspective on media and storytelling is closely tied to his family's background. His grandparents and great-grandparents immigrated to the United States from Cuba and Honduras to escape an oppressive government, arriving with very few possessions in pursuit of social liberty and economic opportunity. Through hard work, they were able to build stable lives, a journey that is reflected most clearly in the path of his great-grandfather, who went on to serve as Press Secretary to two U.S. presidents, fulfilling his long-held goal of success in media and journalism. That example continues to motivate Lucas, who says it influences how he approaches challenges and continues to push him to stay focused on his goals in media and storytelling.
Deeply connected to Chelsea, Alabama, Lucas enjoys giving back to the community he has called home his entire life. Inspired by his parents, who have taught and coached in the area for decades, he sees service as both a responsibility and an honor. Through Chelsea High School Peer Helpers, he has helped organize drives, fundraisers, and school events that support local charities, mental health organizations, and promote unity. He was also involved with other initiatives in the area, including the Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy, the Jimmi Hale Mission, and volunteering with the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama. Outside of service, he is active through Church of the Highlands 252 Leadership, American Legion Alabama Boys' State, and as a member of the Chelsea High School boys' soccer team.
Lucas is well on his way to success, and his next step will be pursuing a major in communications and a minor in digital media production at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Lee University, or the University of South Alabama.
SILVER - Joshua Haynes
Major: Marketing
High School: Southaven High School
Hometown: Southaven, MS
Growing up, Joshua Haynes rarely saw people who shared his identity reflected in the media. As a gay, first-generation Peruvian-American, he felt a void during his upbringing that would significantly impact his outlook and approach to journalism and media. Through this feeling of disconnection, he turned to photography to begin telling his story, and he would eventually use his gift to do the same for others. Acknowledging those moments, he noted, "Through my freelance work, I used my camera to capture every moment and the people who are often overlooked in hopes of representing those who aren't seen or heard."
Thoughtful and self-aware, he found that these former struggles around identity, vulnerability, and honesty were the very things that fueled his work, which he now proudly shares. As for journalism and media, the goal was always to create space for that kind of presence that also sheds light on stories that have yet to be told. So, he created a photography club at Southaven High School, where fellow students could learn, experiment, and grow together.
Founding and leading the school photography club is his proudest accomplishment in his category to date. Not only does he get to share his craft with others, but the experience also pushed him to develop leadership skills to guide his peers while also bringing out their artistic voices. For him, the achievement is significant because it reflects his commitment to photography, and it confirms how media can be a tool for connection and change.
As a result, Joshua is even more motivated to pursue photography professionally, as it goes beyond just taking pictures. Over the years, he has pursued opportunities, programs, and creative work that reflect his dedication to the field, including completing a summer photography course at the Academy of Art University, where his work was selected for exhibition. Intent on expanding his knowledge, he enrolled in two digital media courses focusing on photography and music production, and another specializing in videography and film. He also has a freelance brand, lensofjoshua, where he shoots portraits and editorial-style work, and serves as the social media manager for his school's theatre program, creating engaging content to promote productions and generate awareness.
Aside from hands-on work, Joshua has a strong academic foundation in media and the arts, having taken a diverse range of courses, such as AP classes in 2-D Art & Design, 3-D Art & Design, Art History, Drawing, and Art Appreciation. His collective experiences have shown him many different types of media from both behind the lens and in front of it, and allowed him to find his voice in the industry and express himself through creative work. Some of his notable accolades include earning an American Visions nomination at the 2026 Scholastic Art Awards, where he received seven Gold Keys, one Silver Key, and two Honorable Mentions, adding to the five Gold Keys and one Silver Key he earned in 2025. Joshua is a Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar, a member of the Disney Dreamers Academy Class of 2026, and was nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Musical) at the Allie Awards. He has been featured in school exhibitions and shows for his photography. Joshua serves as president of both his school's National Honor Society and National Art Honor Society chapters, also representing the latter as National Student Council Ambassador.
When it comes to his future, he has a clear picture of the path ahead and is looking forward to majoring in marketing at Mississippi State University.
High School: Southaven High School
Hometown: Southaven, MS
Growing up, Joshua Haynes rarely saw people who shared his identity reflected in the media. As a gay, first-generation Peruvian-American, he felt a void during his upbringing that would significantly impact his outlook and approach to journalism and media. Through this feeling of disconnection, he turned to photography to begin telling his story, and he would eventually use his gift to do the same for others. Acknowledging those moments, he noted, "Through my freelance work, I used my camera to capture every moment and the people who are often overlooked in hopes of representing those who aren't seen or heard."
Thoughtful and self-aware, he found that these former struggles around identity, vulnerability, and honesty were the very things that fueled his work, which he now proudly shares. As for journalism and media, the goal was always to create space for that kind of presence that also sheds light on stories that have yet to be told. So, he created a photography club at Southaven High School, where fellow students could learn, experiment, and grow together.
Founding and leading the school photography club is his proudest accomplishment in his category to date. Not only does he get to share his craft with others, but the experience also pushed him to develop leadership skills to guide his peers while also bringing out their artistic voices. For him, the achievement is significant because it reflects his commitment to photography, and it confirms how media can be a tool for connection and change.
As a result, Joshua is even more motivated to pursue photography professionally, as it goes beyond just taking pictures. Over the years, he has pursued opportunities, programs, and creative work that reflect his dedication to the field, including completing a summer photography course at the Academy of Art University, where his work was selected for exhibition. Intent on expanding his knowledge, he enrolled in two digital media courses focusing on photography and music production, and another specializing in videography and film. He also has a freelance brand, lensofjoshua, where he shoots portraits and editorial-style work, and serves as the social media manager for his school's theatre program, creating engaging content to promote productions and generate awareness.
Aside from hands-on work, Joshua has a strong academic foundation in media and the arts, having taken a diverse range of courses, such as AP classes in 2-D Art & Design, 3-D Art & Design, Art History, Drawing, and Art Appreciation. His collective experiences have shown him many different types of media from both behind the lens and in front of it, and allowed him to find his voice in the industry and express himself through creative work. Some of his notable accolades include earning an American Visions nomination at the 2026 Scholastic Art Awards, where he received seven Gold Keys, one Silver Key, and two Honorable Mentions, adding to the five Gold Keys and one Silver Key he earned in 2025. Joshua is a Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar, a member of the Disney Dreamers Academy Class of 2026, and was nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Musical) at the Allie Awards. He has been featured in school exhibitions and shows for his photography. Joshua serves as president of both his school's National Honor Society and National Art Honor Society chapters, also representing the latter as National Student Council Ambassador.
When it comes to his future, he has a clear picture of the path ahead and is looking forward to majoring in marketing at Mississippi State University.
BRONZE - Izel De Jesus Sanchez
Major: Marketing with a minor in Finance
High School: Orange High School
Hometown: Hillsborough, NC
Little did Izel De Jesus Sanchez know that interning with a small marketing business would change her perception of media and its potential to raise awareness. Through working on promotional videos that highlight patient stories, she immersed herself in photography, filming, editing, and the process of it all coming together to engage others. Reflecting on the experience that stands out as her proudest media accomplishment, she said, "It was exciting to see something in public and know that I helped create it. It feels very accomplished and reminds me that the little things matter, and these opportunities will help me achieve new things and gain connections that will help me grow as a person.”
Along with gaining practical knowledge, she developed a deeper interest in marketing, a field she has further explored through her long-term association with Fairview Youth in Action. Over four years, she has stepped up in numerous ways, from creating flyers and social media posts to promoting local events that make a difference. This hands-on involvement provided insight into how visuals and messaging can influence engagement and how strategic planning can encourage people to interact with their community.
Academically, the focused student has consistently demonstrated that she is hardworking, mature, and disciplined. Beyond earning honor roll recognition, she is a member of the National Spanish Honor Society and the Minority Achievers Program. Her coursework includes AP Spanish Language and Culture, music appreciation, writing and inquiry, psychology, and statistical methods.
Embracing her heritage, Izel, who is of Mexican descent, finds inspiration in her family's journey and father's words: "Ustedes tienen una ventaja, pueden hablar dos idiomas y tienen la oportunidad de lograr muchas cosas con estudiar." His support continues to strengthen her confidence and reminds her to use her voice to pursue her goals.
Commitment to her community is also close to her heart. Through Fairview Youth in Action, she helped research ways to encourage residents to engage with nature more and has interviewed community centers to learn what strategies are most effective, applying those lessons to her own neighborhood. One initiative that originated from her efforts was a proposal for a community mural, designed with input from locals so that everyone could see themselves in the artwork. Approved last October and now being developed with a muralist from North Carolina, the project represents an important milestone for both her and the community she serves.
Another important outlet for creativity is music. As an advanced honors and music student and choir member, singing has helped her build confidence and comfort in expressing herself in new ways.
As for what is ahead, Izel plans to study marketing with a minor in finance at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, or the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, while exploring exciting opportunities that tap into communication, creativity, and strategy.
High School: Orange High School
Hometown: Hillsborough, NC
Little did Izel De Jesus Sanchez know that interning with a small marketing business would change her perception of media and its potential to raise awareness. Through working on promotional videos that highlight patient stories, she immersed herself in photography, filming, editing, and the process of it all coming together to engage others. Reflecting on the experience that stands out as her proudest media accomplishment, she said, "It was exciting to see something in public and know that I helped create it. It feels very accomplished and reminds me that the little things matter, and these opportunities will help me achieve new things and gain connections that will help me grow as a person.”
Along with gaining practical knowledge, she developed a deeper interest in marketing, a field she has further explored through her long-term association with Fairview Youth in Action. Over four years, she has stepped up in numerous ways, from creating flyers and social media posts to promoting local events that make a difference. This hands-on involvement provided insight into how visuals and messaging can influence engagement and how strategic planning can encourage people to interact with their community.
Academically, the focused student has consistently demonstrated that she is hardworking, mature, and disciplined. Beyond earning honor roll recognition, she is a member of the National Spanish Honor Society and the Minority Achievers Program. Her coursework includes AP Spanish Language and Culture, music appreciation, writing and inquiry, psychology, and statistical methods.
Embracing her heritage, Izel, who is of Mexican descent, finds inspiration in her family's journey and father's words: "Ustedes tienen una ventaja, pueden hablar dos idiomas y tienen la oportunidad de lograr muchas cosas con estudiar." His support continues to strengthen her confidence and reminds her to use her voice to pursue her goals.
Commitment to her community is also close to her heart. Through Fairview Youth in Action, she helped research ways to encourage residents to engage with nature more and has interviewed community centers to learn what strategies are most effective, applying those lessons to her own neighborhood. One initiative that originated from her efforts was a proposal for a community mural, designed with input from locals so that everyone could see themselves in the artwork. Approved last October and now being developed with a muralist from North Carolina, the project represents an important milestone for both her and the community she serves.
Another important outlet for creativity is music. As an advanced honors and music student and choir member, singing has helped her build confidence and comfort in expressing herself in new ways.
As for what is ahead, Izel plans to study marketing with a minor in finance at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, or the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, while exploring exciting opportunities that tap into communication, creativity, and strategy.
Pink Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Sophia Valdez
Major: Political Science with a minor in International Studies
High School: Oak Lawn Community High School
Hometown: Hometown, IL
Before Sophia Valdez wrote articles or held a microphone, the young journalist gravitated to journalism and media. Growing up bilingual, translating letters, conversations, and emotions between English and Spanish taught her that communication is not just about words, but about understanding one another.
After discovering journalism at Oak Lawn Community High School, she assumed the lead editor role for their publication, where she covered a wide range of topics, including student events, pop culture, and political issues that impact the community.
For Sophia, journalism is not just an activity, but also a responsibility and a way to honor those voices that often go unnoticed. Exploring this interest further, she competed at the Illinois High School Association State Finals for News Broadcast after winning first place in sectionals, an experience she considers her proudest accomplishment in media. While producing the broadcast, she learned the different aspects of interviewing, framing stories with clarity, and editing footage in a way that honored the people she was representing.
This achievement revealed to her the kind of storyteller she wanted to become: one who listens deeply, speaks thoughtfully, and uses the media to inform and restore empathy in the world.
Looking back on the memorable milestone, she said, "Knowing that the story I pieced together would reach real people felt like a moment years in the making, a moment that connected the once quiet girl that I was, who once struggled to speak in class, with the young woman now creating stories that matter." Ultimately, what made this accomplishment particularly significant was not the medal or the title, but the transformation behind it. Once terrified of using her voice, she found a place in journalism where she could reclaim it.
Civic engagement is another area where she uses media as a tool. While volunteering with the Democratic Party of Illinois and the Cook County Clerk, she turned to her communication skills to encourage voting and civic participation in her district. During that time, she realized that journalism and politics share a common goal of giving communities access to the truth.
These collective experiences only strengthened her commitment to journalism as both a craft and a purpose, along with pushing her to see media not simply as entertainment, but as a force for change.
A daughter of Mexican immigrants, Sophia acknowledges that her background shapes every story she tells. Having to navigate two cultures, two languages, and two identities that did not always fit neatly together taught her early on that silence is often imposed, not chosen.
Simply watching her supportive parents work tirelessly while being misunderstood, she learned how easily voices can be silenced. Today, that understanding shapes her approach to journalism and drives her to bring those stories to light.
Continuing to build the analytical and global perspective that informs her work in journalism, she plans to major in political science and minor in international studies at the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, or Georgetown University where she hopes to delve deeper into the studies that support her goal of ensuring that people like her parents, her family, and her community, are not just included in the story, but centered in it.
High School: Oak Lawn Community High School
Hometown: Hometown, IL
Before Sophia Valdez wrote articles or held a microphone, the young journalist gravitated to journalism and media. Growing up bilingual, translating letters, conversations, and emotions between English and Spanish taught her that communication is not just about words, but about understanding one another.
After discovering journalism at Oak Lawn Community High School, she assumed the lead editor role for their publication, where she covered a wide range of topics, including student events, pop culture, and political issues that impact the community.
For Sophia, journalism is not just an activity, but also a responsibility and a way to honor those voices that often go unnoticed. Exploring this interest further, she competed at the Illinois High School Association State Finals for News Broadcast after winning first place in sectionals, an experience she considers her proudest accomplishment in media. While producing the broadcast, she learned the different aspects of interviewing, framing stories with clarity, and editing footage in a way that honored the people she was representing.
This achievement revealed to her the kind of storyteller she wanted to become: one who listens deeply, speaks thoughtfully, and uses the media to inform and restore empathy in the world.
Looking back on the memorable milestone, she said, "Knowing that the story I pieced together would reach real people felt like a moment years in the making, a moment that connected the once quiet girl that I was, who once struggled to speak in class, with the young woman now creating stories that matter." Ultimately, what made this accomplishment particularly significant was not the medal or the title, but the transformation behind it. Once terrified of using her voice, she found a place in journalism where she could reclaim it.
Civic engagement is another area where she uses media as a tool. While volunteering with the Democratic Party of Illinois and the Cook County Clerk, she turned to her communication skills to encourage voting and civic participation in her district. During that time, she realized that journalism and politics share a common goal of giving communities access to the truth.
These collective experiences only strengthened her commitment to journalism as both a craft and a purpose, along with pushing her to see media not simply as entertainment, but as a force for change.
A daughter of Mexican immigrants, Sophia acknowledges that her background shapes every story she tells. Having to navigate two cultures, two languages, and two identities that did not always fit neatly together taught her early on that silence is often imposed, not chosen.
Simply watching her supportive parents work tirelessly while being misunderstood, she learned how easily voices can be silenced. Today, that understanding shapes her approach to journalism and drives her to bring those stories to light.
Continuing to build the analytical and global perspective that informs her work in journalism, she plans to major in political science and minor in international studies at the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, or Georgetown University where she hopes to delve deeper into the studies that support her goal of ensuring that people like her parents, her family, and her community, are not just included in the story, but centered in it.
SILVER - Ian Mendez
Major: Journalism with a minor in Communication
High School: Lane Tech College Prep High School
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Watching the news before bed was never a rarity for Ian Mendez. Growing up in Chicago, the accomplished and inquisitive student would watch Telemundo with his family, always making sure to stay informed and connected, whether on the local or global scale.
Since then, he has cultivated an enriching path for himself, including preparing, organizing, and leading events at the nearby library, where he has met people from diverse backgrounds and seen how some individuals have been unfairly portrayed in the media. As a result, he has taken AP Seminar and AP Research classes, which taught him to find, read, conduct, and analyze peer-reviewed studies as well as write his own. This enabled him to better investigate injustices in similar communities, and he plans to pursue relevant coursework as part of his future studies.
Of all his experiences in journalism and media, he is most proud of representing his community through high-profile interviews and public appearances. As a member of organizations such as the District Student Voice Committee (DSVC), he has been highly involved with Chicago Public Schools, organizing and leading round-table discussions on district-wide issues, voicing concerns plaguing the student body, and providing insight on how to improve the system for those entering.
Additionally, as Founder and President of the Lane Tech College Prep High School Journalism and Media Club, he has also ventured into the field of entertainment. Through all these activities, he has consistently represented his community, helping to shine a spotlight on it.
Greatly shaping his approach to media is his Hispanic heritage. In every piece of content, event, or interview, he integrates his culture and identity. While at the DSVC, every suggestion that he makes is carefully weighed with the reminder of the social and political status of those who look and sound like him.
"When speaking in front of officials or translating to students who may not speak or understand the language, I am reminded of who I am," shared Ian, whose parents are from Mexico. "Therefore, through my presence, I strive to remind all those in my community who they are, reassure them they are welcome in these spaces, and uplift them. In doing so, that is my greatest accomplishment.”
Deeply engaged in public service, Ian continues to support others, using his presence as a form of cultural advocacy. One of his most meaningful moments in the past year involved translating for two younger Colombian students who primarily spoke Spanish, allowing them to fully participate and be understood in a space where language might have otherwise been a barrier.
As the first in his family to attend college, he plans to enroll in the University of Southern California, Northwestern University, or the University of Illinois Chicago, where he will fulfill his goal of majoring in journalism with a minor in communication.
High School: Lane Tech College Prep High School
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Watching the news before bed was never a rarity for Ian Mendez. Growing up in Chicago, the accomplished and inquisitive student would watch Telemundo with his family, always making sure to stay informed and connected, whether on the local or global scale.
Since then, he has cultivated an enriching path for himself, including preparing, organizing, and leading events at the nearby library, where he has met people from diverse backgrounds and seen how some individuals have been unfairly portrayed in the media. As a result, he has taken AP Seminar and AP Research classes, which taught him to find, read, conduct, and analyze peer-reviewed studies as well as write his own. This enabled him to better investigate injustices in similar communities, and he plans to pursue relevant coursework as part of his future studies.
Of all his experiences in journalism and media, he is most proud of representing his community through high-profile interviews and public appearances. As a member of organizations such as the District Student Voice Committee (DSVC), he has been highly involved with Chicago Public Schools, organizing and leading round-table discussions on district-wide issues, voicing concerns plaguing the student body, and providing insight on how to improve the system for those entering.
Additionally, as Founder and President of the Lane Tech College Prep High School Journalism and Media Club, he has also ventured into the field of entertainment. Through all these activities, he has consistently represented his community, helping to shine a spotlight on it.
Greatly shaping his approach to media is his Hispanic heritage. In every piece of content, event, or interview, he integrates his culture and identity. While at the DSVC, every suggestion that he makes is carefully weighed with the reminder of the social and political status of those who look and sound like him.
"When speaking in front of officials or translating to students who may not speak or understand the language, I am reminded of who I am," shared Ian, whose parents are from Mexico. "Therefore, through my presence, I strive to remind all those in my community who they are, reassure them they are welcome in these spaces, and uplift them. In doing so, that is my greatest accomplishment.”
Deeply engaged in public service, Ian continues to support others, using his presence as a form of cultural advocacy. One of his most meaningful moments in the past year involved translating for two younger Colombian students who primarily spoke Spanish, allowing them to fully participate and be understood in a space where language might have otherwise been a barrier.
As the first in his family to attend college, he plans to enroll in the University of Southern California, Northwestern University, or the University of Illinois Chicago, where he will fulfill his goal of majoring in journalism with a minor in communication.
BRONZE - Isabel Bernal
Major: Journalism, Media & Communications
High School: John Hancock College Prep High School
Hometown: Chicago, IL
A pastime for taking pictures sparked an interest in journalism and media for Isabel Bernal. As a part of the Yearbook Club at John Hancock College Prep High School, she would capture candid moments that would otherwise be forgotten. Eventually, she would be Editor-in-Chief in her senior year and would encourage others to follow the same path of picking up the camera.
Along with photography, writing also played a role in shaping her interest in media, particularly when it comes to informing others. After pushing herself to use her writing for something more than just class, she seized the opportunity to talk to and meet new people through her experiences in journalism.
Over the years, the AP Scholar took part in sports such as soccer and other enriching extracurricular activities, including the Sport Media Club, Book Club, Crafting for Courage Club, and the Poetry Club. However, the experience she is most fond of and considers her proudest accomplishment in media and communications is a summer internship with a broadcasting nonprofit, CANtv.
Isabel, who admits that she can be shy sometimes, stepped out of her comfort zone to be welcoming and helpful to others. Ultimately, she enjoyed working there and learned all about how shows are made and broadcast for the public eye. Among the firsthand highlights are helping with a live news segment for the organization, guiding guests, overseeing the props and setting management, and creating and editing a short film. The experience proved invaluable for her future endeavors.
Of her time behind the scenes, she said, "It was really eye-opening and made me realize my passion for entertainment," and "I was proud of my newfound ability to work with others and learn something new every day.”
Culture also cultivated her outlook. Growing up in a Mexican-American family, she was accustomed to seeing media from diverse vantage points. In the evenings, her parents would watch the news in Spanish, and on occasion, her grandfather would switch it to English news, so he could learn faster.
Even now, she still finds herself changing the channels to watch the news in different languages and to get different points of view. While she is more accustomed to speaking English, she also finds herself drawn to watching sports, the news, and dramas in Spanish, all of which have left a lasting imprint. That same household also instilled the value of education, encouraging her to attend college even when the cost made it feel uncertain, and to pursue a career she would be proud to show up for each day.
Helping the community is also close to her heart. Inspired early on by her mother, who regularly volunteered at their church and elementary school, made donations to food and clothing drives, and stayed late after events to help clean up, she follows in her footsteps by returning to that same elementary school to volunteer on her days off, often working with students who need extra patience and attention. Being there and supporting them has shown that her efforts can make a difference.
Now, she is ready to take everything she has learned and expand her knowledge even further by pursuing a bachelor's degree at Columbia College Chicago, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, or DePaul University, where she will major in journalism, media, and communications.
High School: John Hancock College Prep High School
Hometown: Chicago, IL
A pastime for taking pictures sparked an interest in journalism and media for Isabel Bernal. As a part of the Yearbook Club at John Hancock College Prep High School, she would capture candid moments that would otherwise be forgotten. Eventually, she would be Editor-in-Chief in her senior year and would encourage others to follow the same path of picking up the camera.
Along with photography, writing also played a role in shaping her interest in media, particularly when it comes to informing others. After pushing herself to use her writing for something more than just class, she seized the opportunity to talk to and meet new people through her experiences in journalism.
Over the years, the AP Scholar took part in sports such as soccer and other enriching extracurricular activities, including the Sport Media Club, Book Club, Crafting for Courage Club, and the Poetry Club. However, the experience she is most fond of and considers her proudest accomplishment in media and communications is a summer internship with a broadcasting nonprofit, CANtv.
Isabel, who admits that she can be shy sometimes, stepped out of her comfort zone to be welcoming and helpful to others. Ultimately, she enjoyed working there and learned all about how shows are made and broadcast for the public eye. Among the firsthand highlights are helping with a live news segment for the organization, guiding guests, overseeing the props and setting management, and creating and editing a short film. The experience proved invaluable for her future endeavors.
Of her time behind the scenes, she said, "It was really eye-opening and made me realize my passion for entertainment," and "I was proud of my newfound ability to work with others and learn something new every day.”
Culture also cultivated her outlook. Growing up in a Mexican-American family, she was accustomed to seeing media from diverse vantage points. In the evenings, her parents would watch the news in Spanish, and on occasion, her grandfather would switch it to English news, so he could learn faster.
Even now, she still finds herself changing the channels to watch the news in different languages and to get different points of view. While she is more accustomed to speaking English, she also finds herself drawn to watching sports, the news, and dramas in Spanish, all of which have left a lasting imprint. That same household also instilled the value of education, encouraging her to attend college even when the cost made it feel uncertain, and to pursue a career she would be proud to show up for each day.
Helping the community is also close to her heart. Inspired early on by her mother, who regularly volunteered at their church and elementary school, made donations to food and clothing drives, and stayed late after events to help clean up, she follows in her footsteps by returning to that same elementary school to volunteer on her days off, often working with students who need extra patience and attention. Being there and supporting them has shown that her efforts can make a difference.
Now, she is ready to take everything she has learned and expand her knowledge even further by pursuing a bachelor's degree at Columbia College Chicago, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, or DePaul University, where she will major in journalism, media, and communications.
Purple Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Tomas Carranza
Major: Film & Media with a minor in Business
High School: Don Bosco Technical Institute
Hometown: Pasadena, CA
Wanting to study how to inspire and tell important stories, Tomás Carranza joined the Media Arts & Technology department at his career-specialized high school. Through that engaging experience, he discovered that filmmaking beautifully combines the arts of light, sound, visual composition, and writing, transcending traditional means of expression and serving as a powerful messenger of change.
Eventually, with a growing interest, he would delve into documentaries, learning how they can raise awareness around issues such as public health.
"The longer I spent as a student in Media Arts at Bosco Tech, the more it became clear that responsibility was thus required for media to have positive rather than catastrophic effects. That is my inspiration for what I'm pursuing now, in university, and in the future," Tomás said regarding his experience.
While he has had many memorable moments in the realm of media, one milestone stands out as the one that makes him proudest: his first interview as a journalist. Standing anxiously on the red (or rather, blue) carpet with a microphone in hand at the Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory for the new Smurfs movie on behalf of MUSE TV, he realized his dream of having a full conversation with someone from Hollywood. This time it was particularly special because he interviewed Xolo Maridueña, an actor he greatly admired and saw much of himself in. In the end, he performed well, captured the perfect footage, and immersed himself in the exciting world of entertainment.
Growing up as a young Latino artist of Mexican descent in Los Angeles continues to shape his perspective on media and storytelling. Discovering magical realism through works like The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros when he was a sophomore, taught him that storytelling is not just an escape, but a way to understand identity, emotion, and culture across American, Spanish, and shared human experiences.
Outside of his core high school curriculum, he continues to expand his skills and knowledge through both study and peer collaboration. For instance, he has taken courses through Orange Coast College, including 2-D Animation and Great Directors of the Cinema, participated in the Sony Pictures Media Arts Program, plans on returning to MUSE TV after graduation to work on a documentary about Latino musicians and record labels in Los Angeles, and continues to produce short films and other projects with the Bosco Tech Independent Film Crew and Film Club. Among his other accolades are winning an award at INDIE FILM Los Angeles, having an official selection as part of Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions, and appearing as a featured student in an article in The Salesian Bulletin, to name a few.
As for his upcoming plans, he intends to attend Harvard College, Columbia University, or Yale University, where he will major in film & media and minor in business, pushing him closer to his goal of working as a film producer.
High School: Don Bosco Technical Institute
Hometown: Pasadena, CA
Wanting to study how to inspire and tell important stories, Tomás Carranza joined the Media Arts & Technology department at his career-specialized high school. Through that engaging experience, he discovered that filmmaking beautifully combines the arts of light, sound, visual composition, and writing, transcending traditional means of expression and serving as a powerful messenger of change.
Eventually, with a growing interest, he would delve into documentaries, learning how they can raise awareness around issues such as public health.
"The longer I spent as a student in Media Arts at Bosco Tech, the more it became clear that responsibility was thus required for media to have positive rather than catastrophic effects. That is my inspiration for what I'm pursuing now, in university, and in the future," Tomás said regarding his experience.
While he has had many memorable moments in the realm of media, one milestone stands out as the one that makes him proudest: his first interview as a journalist. Standing anxiously on the red (or rather, blue) carpet with a microphone in hand at the Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory for the new Smurfs movie on behalf of MUSE TV, he realized his dream of having a full conversation with someone from Hollywood. This time it was particularly special because he interviewed Xolo Maridueña, an actor he greatly admired and saw much of himself in. In the end, he performed well, captured the perfect footage, and immersed himself in the exciting world of entertainment.
Growing up as a young Latino artist of Mexican descent in Los Angeles continues to shape his perspective on media and storytelling. Discovering magical realism through works like The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros when he was a sophomore, taught him that storytelling is not just an escape, but a way to understand identity, emotion, and culture across American, Spanish, and shared human experiences.
Outside of his core high school curriculum, he continues to expand his skills and knowledge through both study and peer collaboration. For instance, he has taken courses through Orange Coast College, including 2-D Animation and Great Directors of the Cinema, participated in the Sony Pictures Media Arts Program, plans on returning to MUSE TV after graduation to work on a documentary about Latino musicians and record labels in Los Angeles, and continues to produce short films and other projects with the Bosco Tech Independent Film Crew and Film Club. Among his other accolades are winning an award at INDIE FILM Los Angeles, having an official selection as part of Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions, and appearing as a featured student in an article in The Salesian Bulletin, to name a few.
As for his upcoming plans, he intends to attend Harvard College, Columbia University, or Yale University, where he will major in film & media and minor in business, pushing him closer to his goal of working as a film producer.
SILVER - Ethan Price
Major: Bilingual Education with a minor in Creative Writing
High School: Corona Del Mar High School
Hometown: Corona Del Mar, CA
Before kindergarten, Ethan Price learned to speak Spanish, French, and English. For him, his upbringing was a masterclass in human connection. Quickly, he learned that language is the ultimate currency, whether it is a tool that can instantly empower a voice or enforce silence. Reflecting on how this experience impacted him, he said, "This fundamental truth fuels my passion for media and entertainment and telling stories that connect and amplify voices that often go unheard.”
Grounded in his Peruvian and Moroccan roots, he grew up moving across multiple languages and cultures. Eventually, his intellectual curiosity would lead him to the University of California, Irvine Tertulias graduate program, where he is the only high school student studying intersectionality and how identities shape experiences in education and society. One memorable highlight is having his research published in the California Association for Bilingual Education's Multilingual Educator, which examines how popular films dubbed in students' native languages support literacy development and foster a sense of belonging, reinforcing his belief that storytelling can create a real, measurable impact.
For Ethan, an interest in journalism and media always stemmed from using stories to connect people across languages and cultures. When he was in eleventh grade, he wrote a Spanish prose essay for Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica's Albricias magazine titled El cine en español: un puente entre dos mundos that explored the power of Spanish-dubbed popular films serving as an accessible bridge for English learners like himself. Additionally, to make global ideas more accessible, he translates and transcribes TED Talks and uses his trilingual skills via cultural and volunteer clubs at his school, efforts that reinforce his commitment to using storytelling for connection across communities.
Out of all his successful endeavors in journalism and media, he is proudest of creating a bilingual learning platform to help his AP Spanish classmates. Earlier in his academic years, he observed his peers struggling to grasp complex grammar and concepts in a language that wasn't their first. As a result, he set out to make learning more accessible for everyone by translating class materials, creating flashcards, and designing interactive quizzes in both English and Spanish. His efforts caught on, and what started as a classroom tool is now trusted by more than a thousand students online. Not only did teachers recommend it, but students reached out for help, and he used the platform to tutor ESL students, who have expressed appreciation for it in enhancing their learning.
Along with these successes, Ethan is an avid water polo player and a recipient of several awards, including receiving the distinction of being named the USA Water Polo Outstanding Academic All-American, among other honors.
Conscientious and caring, he plans to continue cultivating connection through communication while attending Northwestern University, the University of California, Los Angeles, or Duke University, where he intends to major in bilingual education and minor in creative writing.
High School: Corona Del Mar High School
Hometown: Corona Del Mar, CA
Before kindergarten, Ethan Price learned to speak Spanish, French, and English. For him, his upbringing was a masterclass in human connection. Quickly, he learned that language is the ultimate currency, whether it is a tool that can instantly empower a voice or enforce silence. Reflecting on how this experience impacted him, he said, "This fundamental truth fuels my passion for media and entertainment and telling stories that connect and amplify voices that often go unheard.”
Grounded in his Peruvian and Moroccan roots, he grew up moving across multiple languages and cultures. Eventually, his intellectual curiosity would lead him to the University of California, Irvine Tertulias graduate program, where he is the only high school student studying intersectionality and how identities shape experiences in education and society. One memorable highlight is having his research published in the California Association for Bilingual Education's Multilingual Educator, which examines how popular films dubbed in students' native languages support literacy development and foster a sense of belonging, reinforcing his belief that storytelling can create a real, measurable impact.
For Ethan, an interest in journalism and media always stemmed from using stories to connect people across languages and cultures. When he was in eleventh grade, he wrote a Spanish prose essay for Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica's Albricias magazine titled El cine en español: un puente entre dos mundos that explored the power of Spanish-dubbed popular films serving as an accessible bridge for English learners like himself. Additionally, to make global ideas more accessible, he translates and transcribes TED Talks and uses his trilingual skills via cultural and volunteer clubs at his school, efforts that reinforce his commitment to using storytelling for connection across communities.
Out of all his successful endeavors in journalism and media, he is proudest of creating a bilingual learning platform to help his AP Spanish classmates. Earlier in his academic years, he observed his peers struggling to grasp complex grammar and concepts in a language that wasn't their first. As a result, he set out to make learning more accessible for everyone by translating class materials, creating flashcards, and designing interactive quizzes in both English and Spanish. His efforts caught on, and what started as a classroom tool is now trusted by more than a thousand students online. Not only did teachers recommend it, but students reached out for help, and he used the platform to tutor ESL students, who have expressed appreciation for it in enhancing their learning.
Along with these successes, Ethan is an avid water polo player and a recipient of several awards, including receiving the distinction of being named the USA Water Polo Outstanding Academic All-American, among other honors.
Conscientious and caring, he plans to continue cultivating connection through communication while attending Northwestern University, the University of California, Los Angeles, or Duke University, where he intends to major in bilingual education and minor in creative writing.
BRONZE - Marli Venegas
Major: Emerging Media, Digital Arts with a minor in Journalism
High School: Exeter Union High School
Hometown: Exeter, CA
Before realizing that she could publish her own animated series, Marli Venegas assumed that her stories would forever be stuck within the confines of her mind or notebook. However, four years of media and broadcasting courses at Exeter Union High School, alongside an AP art class, as well as certifications in both video production and 2D and 3D animation, changed that perception.
Soon, she would start creating her own productions, launch a YouTube channel, form new friendships with like-minded peers, and share her animation projects with the world.
"For the first time, I knew what I wanted to do with my life. I did not feel like I was wasting my time. I felt like my classes, my certifications, my hard work, and my relationships were helping me towards my future," said Marli, reflecting on a moment of clarity for her beloved passion.
Originally, she became interested in animation in the third grade after reading the book Warriors, which tells the tale of a cat navigating the cruel city streets, which left an impression. After receiving other books from the same series, she noticed that they lacked pictures. So, she began drawing and even started creating original characters to inhabit this universe, complete with backstories, personalities, and designs.
As she grew older and spent more time in the digital world, she downloaded animation software, created animation after animation, learned new techniques, and always tried to improve her craft. What began as writing and illustrating stories of her own grew into a viable career path that she is enthusiastic about, and it all began with a cute cat book.
For Marli, this productive period is her proudest achievement in journalism and media, because she realized her future aspirations of becoming a professional animator. Of Mexican descent, she grew up hearing stories about her father's early life in Mexico and his transition to the United States, which helped shape her interest in storytelling.
She also credits her participation in her school's Art, Media, and Entertainment pathway as instrumental to her success. From courses in video production and photography to journalism and broadcasting, she learned how to produce multiple video projects, which she has entered in film festivals, with one of them garnering an award for Best Music Video.
Additionally, as part of the real-time production team at the Exeter Student News broadcasting group, she contributes to writing and producing news segments that are uploaded on YouTube and played in all the high school and middle school classrooms every Friday.
Along with media endeavors, she has been serving her community for years, whether helping raise funds for a dog's eye surgery, making dog chew toys to donate to area shelters, volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, or working the concessions stand for the girls' basketball team, all experiences she finds extremely rewarding.
Marli is ready to tackle the next chapter in her academic journey and will attend Southern Oregon University, the University of Oregon, or California State University, Chico, where she intends to major in emerging media with a minor in journalism.
High School: Exeter Union High School
Hometown: Exeter, CA
Before realizing that she could publish her own animated series, Marli Venegas assumed that her stories would forever be stuck within the confines of her mind or notebook. However, four years of media and broadcasting courses at Exeter Union High School, alongside an AP art class, as well as certifications in both video production and 2D and 3D animation, changed that perception.
Soon, she would start creating her own productions, launch a YouTube channel, form new friendships with like-minded peers, and share her animation projects with the world.
"For the first time, I knew what I wanted to do with my life. I did not feel like I was wasting my time. I felt like my classes, my certifications, my hard work, and my relationships were helping me towards my future," said Marli, reflecting on a moment of clarity for her beloved passion.
Originally, she became interested in animation in the third grade after reading the book Warriors, which tells the tale of a cat navigating the cruel city streets, which left an impression. After receiving other books from the same series, she noticed that they lacked pictures. So, she began drawing and even started creating original characters to inhabit this universe, complete with backstories, personalities, and designs.
As she grew older and spent more time in the digital world, she downloaded animation software, created animation after animation, learned new techniques, and always tried to improve her craft. What began as writing and illustrating stories of her own grew into a viable career path that she is enthusiastic about, and it all began with a cute cat book.
For Marli, this productive period is her proudest achievement in journalism and media, because she realized her future aspirations of becoming a professional animator. Of Mexican descent, she grew up hearing stories about her father's early life in Mexico and his transition to the United States, which helped shape her interest in storytelling.
She also credits her participation in her school's Art, Media, and Entertainment pathway as instrumental to her success. From courses in video production and photography to journalism and broadcasting, she learned how to produce multiple video projects, which she has entered in film festivals, with one of them garnering an award for Best Music Video.
Additionally, as part of the real-time production team at the Exeter Student News broadcasting group, she contributes to writing and producing news segments that are uploaded on YouTube and played in all the high school and middle school classrooms every Friday.
Along with media endeavors, she has been serving her community for years, whether helping raise funds for a dog's eye surgery, making dog chew toys to donate to area shelters, volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, or working the concessions stand for the girls' basketball team, all experiences she finds extremely rewarding.
Marli is ready to tackle the next chapter in her academic journey and will attend Southern Oregon University, the University of Oregon, or California State University, Chico, where she intends to major in emerging media with a minor in journalism.
Red Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Mariana Prieto
Major: Journalism with a minor in Political Science
High School: Benjamin N. Cardozo High School
Hometown: Bellerose, NY
Whether completing tasks, training for sports, studying for tests, or even doing something as simple as washing the dishes, Mariana Prieto would often hear the expression "Echale ganas." Regardless of how small or big the job at hand was, that statement motivated the exceptional student to give it her all while growing up.
Keeping this message in mind, Mariana applied it to her approach to journalism, first as a junior reporter and then as a senior editor for the newspaper at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School. Reflecting on the frequent phrase that was such an important part of her upbringing, she said, "It formed my attention to detail and emphasis on proper research for every article, ranging from staff spotlights to how national events impacted our school community.”
As a result of this guiding factor and discipline to her craft, it is not surprising to learn that the journalism and media accomplishment that she is the proudest of is her leadership role for the school newspaper, The Verdict. One of four in the journalism program appointed to the position, she covers the world news/arts & entertainment beats. The achievement is particularly meaningful to her because she was recognized for her dedication to being a reporter, and she continues to introduce improvements to the publication to make it even better today, including new editorial workflows to improve collaboration and delegation. In addition, she is honored to serve her school community, mentor other reporters, and be part of the Principal's Council as the student representative for the journalism program, in which she shares student and staff concerns.
Building on this experience, she spent the summer of 2025 developing her journalism skills through Elon University's Emerging Journalists Program, where she trained in law and ethics and news writing, photojournalism, multimedia broadcast, and design, researched and wrote articles, edited videos, and worked behind the camera for a live broadcast. She also participated in the School of The New York Times course on the United Nations and human rights, engaging with diplomats and journalists, participating in a Security Council simulation, and was also selected for the Press Pass student editor bootcamp to refine her collaboration and editorial skills.
She acknowledges that her Colombian upbringing has also shaped her desire to ensure every voice is heard. While she has fond memories of a household that has never been quiet, where rooms come alive with music, conversation, and laughter, and everyone is easily swept up in the sounds, she also remembers that it made it more difficult to speak her mind. However, as she learned to speak up more often, she realized the importance of doing this for those who cannot and developed a desire to spotlight overlooked communities.
Along with journalism and media, she also has experience in politics and civic engagement. At the age of fourteen, she was an intern for a city councilwoman's re-election campaign. At this time, she became enamored with the political world, immersed in the late hours and long discussions she participated in while organizing campaign literature. These few months were also when she grasped the power of political literacy, and she worked to inform others so they could make decisions while voting. As part of her efforts, she decided to join the media relations team for Teens for Press Freedom, an organization working to combat media censorship. Throughout this period, she reported on various present-day infringements of free speech, ranging from the censorship of certain content by social media company Meta to the suspension of student protestors. It was while working on this team that she became enamored with the field of journalism and committed to ensuring it stays a tool for the public to rely on for information.
Community service is another area that remains a priority. Growing up as the daughter of two public servants, a teacher and a firefighter, she was often brought along to PTA meetings and spent time at her father's fire station, where she saw firsthand how everyone stepped into action when called upon. From those experiences, she learned that rank did not matter because everyone had a role to play. She carried this similar spirit with her through high school and did volunteer work, from running food drives to managing school events. A member of the Key Club with over 200 service hours, she has witnessed the direct impact, making her contribution even more rewarding while doing everything from heading the marketing/media committee to working at a summer camp for young girls, tutoring, and organizing a book drive in collaboration with a nearby community college for a women's shelter.
For her, being of service provides a sense of purpose and reinforces her belief in showing up for the communities around her. She hopes to carry this commitment forward as she plans to attend Vanderbilt University, Syracuse University, or Fordham University, where she intends to major in journalism with a minor in political science.
High School: Benjamin N. Cardozo High School
Hometown: Bellerose, NY
Whether completing tasks, training for sports, studying for tests, or even doing something as simple as washing the dishes, Mariana Prieto would often hear the expression "Echale ganas." Regardless of how small or big the job at hand was, that statement motivated the exceptional student to give it her all while growing up.
Keeping this message in mind, Mariana applied it to her approach to journalism, first as a junior reporter and then as a senior editor for the newspaper at Benjamin N. Cardozo High School. Reflecting on the frequent phrase that was such an important part of her upbringing, she said, "It formed my attention to detail and emphasis on proper research for every article, ranging from staff spotlights to how national events impacted our school community.”
As a result of this guiding factor and discipline to her craft, it is not surprising to learn that the journalism and media accomplishment that she is the proudest of is her leadership role for the school newspaper, The Verdict. One of four in the journalism program appointed to the position, she covers the world news/arts & entertainment beats. The achievement is particularly meaningful to her because she was recognized for her dedication to being a reporter, and she continues to introduce improvements to the publication to make it even better today, including new editorial workflows to improve collaboration and delegation. In addition, she is honored to serve her school community, mentor other reporters, and be part of the Principal's Council as the student representative for the journalism program, in which she shares student and staff concerns.
Building on this experience, she spent the summer of 2025 developing her journalism skills through Elon University's Emerging Journalists Program, where she trained in law and ethics and news writing, photojournalism, multimedia broadcast, and design, researched and wrote articles, edited videos, and worked behind the camera for a live broadcast. She also participated in the School of The New York Times course on the United Nations and human rights, engaging with diplomats and journalists, participating in a Security Council simulation, and was also selected for the Press Pass student editor bootcamp to refine her collaboration and editorial skills.
She acknowledges that her Colombian upbringing has also shaped her desire to ensure every voice is heard. While she has fond memories of a household that has never been quiet, where rooms come alive with music, conversation, and laughter, and everyone is easily swept up in the sounds, she also remembers that it made it more difficult to speak her mind. However, as she learned to speak up more often, she realized the importance of doing this for those who cannot and developed a desire to spotlight overlooked communities.
Along with journalism and media, she also has experience in politics and civic engagement. At the age of fourteen, she was an intern for a city councilwoman's re-election campaign. At this time, she became enamored with the political world, immersed in the late hours and long discussions she participated in while organizing campaign literature. These few months were also when she grasped the power of political literacy, and she worked to inform others so they could make decisions while voting. As part of her efforts, she decided to join the media relations team for Teens for Press Freedom, an organization working to combat media censorship. Throughout this period, she reported on various present-day infringements of free speech, ranging from the censorship of certain content by social media company Meta to the suspension of student protestors. It was while working on this team that she became enamored with the field of journalism and committed to ensuring it stays a tool for the public to rely on for information.
Community service is another area that remains a priority. Growing up as the daughter of two public servants, a teacher and a firefighter, she was often brought along to PTA meetings and spent time at her father's fire station, where she saw firsthand how everyone stepped into action when called upon. From those experiences, she learned that rank did not matter because everyone had a role to play. She carried this similar spirit with her through high school and did volunteer work, from running food drives to managing school events. A member of the Key Club with over 200 service hours, she has witnessed the direct impact, making her contribution even more rewarding while doing everything from heading the marketing/media committee to working at a summer camp for young girls, tutoring, and organizing a book drive in collaboration with a nearby community college for a women's shelter.
For her, being of service provides a sense of purpose and reinforces her belief in showing up for the communities around her. She hopes to carry this commitment forward as she plans to attend Vanderbilt University, Syracuse University, or Fordham University, where she intends to major in journalism with a minor in political science.
SILVER - Josefina Eliessetch
Major: Economics with a minor in Finance
High School: Kearsarge Regional High School
Hometown: New London, NH
Since she was a young girl, Josefina Eliessetch always had a love for writing. After penning her first "book" at the age of eight, her love for developing her own ideas and producing original plots expanded. Eventually, Josefina's love for writing would evolve into a passion for journalism.
Through the years, the insightful and intelligent student journalist would tap into exciting opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills. At the end of her sophomore year, the editor of the Intertown Record, a local newspaper, reached out to her school, asking for a student contributor. The English Department collectively recommended Josefina, and she immediately accepted the role. Now she writes biweekly columns covering school events, student achievements, and educational programs. Recently, Josefina also attended the Harvard Crimson Journalism Summit, where she learned even more from professional journalists, participated in a collaboration between her school newspaper and a regional newspaper called the Eagle Times, and received the second-place award in the Brodsky Prize for Excellence in Student Journalism, an honor that recognized her commitment to honest and community-centered storytelling.
As a result of these experiences, Josefina possesses a deeper appreciation for the power of the media to inform and connect people. However, out of all her accomplishments, the achievement in journalism and media that makes her the proudest has been using journalism to connect her school to its surrounding community. Of the experience, she says, "I see my role as building a bridge: connecting students and the school to the broader public.”
Through reporting, Josefina highlights overlooked aspects of school life that span the student body's identity, the dedication of the faculty, community partnerships, and other interesting stories showcasing athletics and extracurricular activities. Among the columns that she has written demonstrating an impact are an article showcasing the partnership between her school and a local nonprofit for the Tiny House on Wheels Extended Learning Opportunity, another one covering the efforts of the National Honor Society Chapter, raising awareness about a blood drive, tutoring programs, and events, among others.
Outside of the newsroom, Josefina is deeply involved in her school community through academics, athletics, and service. A member of the National Honor Society and a varsity athlete in volleyball as well as indoor and outdoor track, she considers sports and extracurricular activities meaningful outlets for building unity and giving back to the people who support student life. For instance, through volunteering at track meets, school events, athletic fundraisers, and theater productions, Josefina has observed how even small contributions of time and effort can make a meaningful difference, both for the people involved and for the entire community.
As she sees it, her reporting not only informs the community but also helps transform the perception of her school, Kearsarge Regional High School, from being a distant institution into a vital, connected part of the community. Growing up in Chile, the student journalist of Chilean and Cuban descent learned early on how powerful storytelling can be in shaping perceptions of the world. Specifically, Josefina saw firsthand how the media can influence opinions and how polarizing narratives and negativity can deter people from the news and what is happening around them. It is for this reason that whenever she has a chance to write, she chooses to do so from a positive perspective.
With this optimistic outlook, Josefina is also looking forward to exploring other disciplines at Boston College, Northeastern University, or Clarkson University, where she intends to major in economics with a minor in finance.Bios coming soon...
High School: Kearsarge Regional High School
Hometown: New London, NH
Since she was a young girl, Josefina Eliessetch always had a love for writing. After penning her first "book" at the age of eight, her love for developing her own ideas and producing original plots expanded. Eventually, Josefina's love for writing would evolve into a passion for journalism.
Through the years, the insightful and intelligent student journalist would tap into exciting opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills. At the end of her sophomore year, the editor of the Intertown Record, a local newspaper, reached out to her school, asking for a student contributor. The English Department collectively recommended Josefina, and she immediately accepted the role. Now she writes biweekly columns covering school events, student achievements, and educational programs. Recently, Josefina also attended the Harvard Crimson Journalism Summit, where she learned even more from professional journalists, participated in a collaboration between her school newspaper and a regional newspaper called the Eagle Times, and received the second-place award in the Brodsky Prize for Excellence in Student Journalism, an honor that recognized her commitment to honest and community-centered storytelling.
As a result of these experiences, Josefina possesses a deeper appreciation for the power of the media to inform and connect people. However, out of all her accomplishments, the achievement in journalism and media that makes her the proudest has been using journalism to connect her school to its surrounding community. Of the experience, she says, "I see my role as building a bridge: connecting students and the school to the broader public.”
Through reporting, Josefina highlights overlooked aspects of school life that span the student body's identity, the dedication of the faculty, community partnerships, and other interesting stories showcasing athletics and extracurricular activities. Among the columns that she has written demonstrating an impact are an article showcasing the partnership between her school and a local nonprofit for the Tiny House on Wheels Extended Learning Opportunity, another one covering the efforts of the National Honor Society Chapter, raising awareness about a blood drive, tutoring programs, and events, among others.
Outside of the newsroom, Josefina is deeply involved in her school community through academics, athletics, and service. A member of the National Honor Society and a varsity athlete in volleyball as well as indoor and outdoor track, she considers sports and extracurricular activities meaningful outlets for building unity and giving back to the people who support student life. For instance, through volunteering at track meets, school events, athletic fundraisers, and theater productions, Josefina has observed how even small contributions of time and effort can make a meaningful difference, both for the people involved and for the entire community.
As she sees it, her reporting not only informs the community but also helps transform the perception of her school, Kearsarge Regional High School, from being a distant institution into a vital, connected part of the community. Growing up in Chile, the student journalist of Chilean and Cuban descent learned early on how powerful storytelling can be in shaping perceptions of the world. Specifically, Josefina saw firsthand how the media can influence opinions and how polarizing narratives and negativity can deter people from the news and what is happening around them. It is for this reason that whenever she has a chance to write, she chooses to do so from a positive perspective.
With this optimistic outlook, Josefina is also looking forward to exploring other disciplines at Boston College, Northeastern University, or Clarkson University, where she intends to major in economics with a minor in finance.Bios coming soon...
BRONZE - Rihanna Bonilla
Major: Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Journalism
High School: Saint John's Preparatory High School
Hometown: Elmhurst, NY
Rihanna Bonilla believes that words can accomplish what actions alone cannot. It is a conviction she traces back to one of her favorite books, The Book Thief, which taught her what she calls "the most important basis of humanity": the power of language to reveal truth, honor struggle, and outlast the forces that try to silence it. For three years, Rihanna has put that belief into practice as a journalist for The Crescent Tower Newspaper at Saint John's Preparatory High School, where her writing celebrates the people and stories too often left out of headlines.
As the daughter of two Ecuadorian immigrants who arrived in the United States more than two decades ago with nothing but the clothes on their backs, Rihanna understands that resilience deserves to be documented. Her Hispanic Heritage Month coverage has featured figures like Ellen Ochoa, the first female astronaut of Hispanic descent, and Eva Perón, whose revolutionary movement reshaped Argentina. Rihanna has also profiled Gabriel García Márquez, the Nobel Prize-winning Colombian author whose work shaped her own father during his youth. "My voice has found a home in The Crescent Tower Newspaper," Rihanna shares, "marking three years of writing that celebrates who I am.”
Rihanna's father, who repairs shoes in a small Manhattan shop, taught himself English by devouring stacks of magazines and newspapers. Watching his hunger for words, Rihanna developed her own. She became determined to create the stories herself. Rihanna has since used her platform to write about more than cultural icons, publishing pieces about her participation in service work that connect readers to economic hardships and urge them to help. At Bread & Life Pantry in Brooklyn, she packs produce and serves meals, taking time to sit down and listen to those she serves. "Hearing the stories of some of the most resilient New Yorkers to ever live never fails to amaze me," she says. Those encounters reinforce what Rihanna sees as her role: to be a voice for those who may not have a platform of their own.
Rihanna's journalism and service work share the same purpose. She shows up for her community, then writes about it so others might follow. Rihanna serves as Treasurer of the Junior Ladies of Charity at her school and has spent three years fundraising for Bridge to Life, a nonprofit supporting mothers in need. Her pieces about fundraising for mothers have shed light on the struggles single mothers face in New York City, encouraging readers to reach out.
Rihanna applies the same focus to her academics. Ranked fourth in a class of 171 students, she holds a 4.0 unweighted GPA and has excelled in STEM courses like Honors Physics, Honors Chemistry, and Intro to Engineering. She has earned recognition on the Principal's List and induction into the National Honor Society. Rihanna's curiosity has carried her into competitive programs. Through Columbia University's S-PREP initiative, she earned a Leadership Award. At the Sci-Mi Institute, she presented independent research on AIDS. As a Thrive Scholar, Rihanna spent five days a week during the summer taking college-level courses taught by professors from John Jay College and Rutgers University. From a pool of nearly 25,000 applicants, she was selected as a Horatio Alger State Scholar, an honor recognizing students who demonstrate integrity, perseverance, and ambition.
Rihanna's involvement reaches into athletics and mentorship as well. She is a competitive swimmer who earned a Take Me to the Water medal in 2024 and participates in Bollywood Dance. Rihanna serves as Secretary of Math League and mentors middle schoolers through her high school's mentorship program. She also assists her father in delivering shoes throughout New York City, a form of service that keeps her grounded in the family effort that made her opportunities possible.
Rihanna will continue her studies at New York University, Barnard College, or Columbia University, where she plans to major in biomedical engineering with a minor in journalism. The daughter of immigrants who arrived with nothing now writes to make sure others are not overlooked, carrying forward the belief that words hold a power actions alone cannot match.
High School: Saint John's Preparatory High School
Hometown: Elmhurst, NY
Rihanna Bonilla believes that words can accomplish what actions alone cannot. It is a conviction she traces back to one of her favorite books, The Book Thief, which taught her what she calls "the most important basis of humanity": the power of language to reveal truth, honor struggle, and outlast the forces that try to silence it. For three years, Rihanna has put that belief into practice as a journalist for The Crescent Tower Newspaper at Saint John's Preparatory High School, where her writing celebrates the people and stories too often left out of headlines.
As the daughter of two Ecuadorian immigrants who arrived in the United States more than two decades ago with nothing but the clothes on their backs, Rihanna understands that resilience deserves to be documented. Her Hispanic Heritage Month coverage has featured figures like Ellen Ochoa, the first female astronaut of Hispanic descent, and Eva Perón, whose revolutionary movement reshaped Argentina. Rihanna has also profiled Gabriel García Márquez, the Nobel Prize-winning Colombian author whose work shaped her own father during his youth. "My voice has found a home in The Crescent Tower Newspaper," Rihanna shares, "marking three years of writing that celebrates who I am.”
Rihanna's father, who repairs shoes in a small Manhattan shop, taught himself English by devouring stacks of magazines and newspapers. Watching his hunger for words, Rihanna developed her own. She became determined to create the stories herself. Rihanna has since used her platform to write about more than cultural icons, publishing pieces about her participation in service work that connect readers to economic hardships and urge them to help. At Bread & Life Pantry in Brooklyn, she packs produce and serves meals, taking time to sit down and listen to those she serves. "Hearing the stories of some of the most resilient New Yorkers to ever live never fails to amaze me," she says. Those encounters reinforce what Rihanna sees as her role: to be a voice for those who may not have a platform of their own.
Rihanna's journalism and service work share the same purpose. She shows up for her community, then writes about it so others might follow. Rihanna serves as Treasurer of the Junior Ladies of Charity at her school and has spent three years fundraising for Bridge to Life, a nonprofit supporting mothers in need. Her pieces about fundraising for mothers have shed light on the struggles single mothers face in New York City, encouraging readers to reach out.
Rihanna applies the same focus to her academics. Ranked fourth in a class of 171 students, she holds a 4.0 unweighted GPA and has excelled in STEM courses like Honors Physics, Honors Chemistry, and Intro to Engineering. She has earned recognition on the Principal's List and induction into the National Honor Society. Rihanna's curiosity has carried her into competitive programs. Through Columbia University's S-PREP initiative, she earned a Leadership Award. At the Sci-Mi Institute, she presented independent research on AIDS. As a Thrive Scholar, Rihanna spent five days a week during the summer taking college-level courses taught by professors from John Jay College and Rutgers University. From a pool of nearly 25,000 applicants, she was selected as a Horatio Alger State Scholar, an honor recognizing students who demonstrate integrity, perseverance, and ambition.
Rihanna's involvement reaches into athletics and mentorship as well. She is a competitive swimmer who earned a Take Me to the Water medal in 2024 and participates in Bollywood Dance. Rihanna serves as Secretary of Math League and mentors middle schoolers through her high school's mentorship program. She also assists her father in delivering shoes throughout New York City, a form of service that keeps her grounded in the family effort that made her opportunities possible.
Rihanna will continue her studies at New York University, Barnard College, or Columbia University, where she plans to major in biomedical engineering with a minor in journalism. The daughter of immigrants who arrived with nothing now writes to make sure others are not overlooked, carrying forward the belief that words hold a power actions alone cannot match.
Tan Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Diego Ramos Rivera
Major: Meteorology with a minor in Journalism
High School: Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola
Hometown: San Juan, PR
Diego Ramos Rivera has learned, through leadership and service, that journalism and media can shape how a community treats one another. As Editor-in-Chief of El Ignaciano at Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, Diego approaches journalism as a space where students and teachers can be seen, where creative work can be shared with care, and where words can help sustain respect in daily school life. Working in both Spanish and English, he brings his Puerto Rican perspective to each project, guided by a Jesuit education and a family that values learning and responsibility.
Diego's proudest media project began with a simple phrase. As a member of the Constructing Solidarity & Equality Committee, he helped craft "Pórtate Bonito," a short message that encouraged respect among students. Diego carried that idea into El Ignaciano. Morning intercom clips teased a song written by a fellow student. Articles invited reflection. A school concert introduced the full performance. Soon, students and teachers repeated the refrain after announcements. The phrase turned into shared language for coexistence. The student composer gained recognition across the community. Diego saw how journalism could lift creative voices and guide culture inside a school setting.
Leadership inside the newsroom carries daily responsibility. Diego guides staff writers, coordinates coverage of campus life, and creates space for students who seek expression. When a student who shared his interest in meteorology needed a platform, Diego supported a video section dedicated to weather content. After the passing of an alumnus, an English teacher asked El Ignaciano to publish student poems in remembrance. The article reached grieving families and classmates. Diego learned that journalism can unite people in moments of loss and care.
Diego's media path expanded outside Puerto Rico through the Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University in Virginia. Nominated by a school counselor, he arrived ready to represent his Caribbean perspective among fellow National Youth Correspondents. Speaking English in a new setting was a new experience, yet Diego took to heart advice from one of the speakers that changed his outlook. Raise your hand. Share what you know. He embraced the experience, held a conversation with staff from his congressional representative, and received praise for his questions on political, social, and economic issues affecting Puerto Rico. The program strengthened his knowledge of media work and sparked interest in political reporting.
Curiosity guides Diego across disciplines. As a science researcher, he investigated arsenic levels in residential drinking water in Guayama and explored connections to cancer incidence near a coal ash power plant. His work earned second place at the Metropolitan Science Fair Puerto Rico in the Medicine and Health category. Diego views this research as a journalistic duty to reveal issues that affect vulnerable communities, guided by his belief that protecting life is a central responsibility. He plans to submit his findings to the College of Chemists of Puerto Rico and advocate for legislative attention on coal ash management.
Service holds equal weight in Diego's story. Through a school program focused on community service and leadership, he joined a team that spent several months visiting over twenty public schools to identify students who could benefit from tutoring for entrance exams to his institution. Diego often led conversations with school officials, guided peers in shared responsibility, and dedicated multiple hours each week to the effort. Parents shared appreciation for the guidance and honesty the group offered, while students began to show steady academic progress. These moments strengthened his empathy and commitment to education access. In school life, Diego also served as a peer minister and Kairos retreat participant, offering support and listening space to classmates.
Diego contributes his voice to broader student forums through Model United Nations, where he earned Best Delegation and Outstanding Delegation awards. He also leads the Oratory Club and participates as an interviewer for CSI News + Media sports coverage. Diego shapes school storytelling from multiple angles as President of The Shield yearbook, and he organizes CSI social justice campaigns, bringing student concerns into public view. Recognition includes a Washington Journalism & Media Conference certificate, National Honor Society membership, and third place in an oratory poetry competition. In the classroom, Diego maintains an unweighted 4.0 GPA while completing a demanding course of study.
Looking ahead, Diego plans to study meteorology with a minor in journalism at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Pennsylvania State University, or Fairfield University. He hopes to study atmospheric phenomena, inform communities, and keep telling stories that protect life and strengthen understanding across Puerto Rico and beyond.
High School: Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola
Hometown: San Juan, PR
Diego Ramos Rivera has learned, through leadership and service, that journalism and media can shape how a community treats one another. As Editor-in-Chief of El Ignaciano at Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, Diego approaches journalism as a space where students and teachers can be seen, where creative work can be shared with care, and where words can help sustain respect in daily school life. Working in both Spanish and English, he brings his Puerto Rican perspective to each project, guided by a Jesuit education and a family that values learning and responsibility.
Diego's proudest media project began with a simple phrase. As a member of the Constructing Solidarity & Equality Committee, he helped craft "Pórtate Bonito," a short message that encouraged respect among students. Diego carried that idea into El Ignaciano. Morning intercom clips teased a song written by a fellow student. Articles invited reflection. A school concert introduced the full performance. Soon, students and teachers repeated the refrain after announcements. The phrase turned into shared language for coexistence. The student composer gained recognition across the community. Diego saw how journalism could lift creative voices and guide culture inside a school setting.
Leadership inside the newsroom carries daily responsibility. Diego guides staff writers, coordinates coverage of campus life, and creates space for students who seek expression. When a student who shared his interest in meteorology needed a platform, Diego supported a video section dedicated to weather content. After the passing of an alumnus, an English teacher asked El Ignaciano to publish student poems in remembrance. The article reached grieving families and classmates. Diego learned that journalism can unite people in moments of loss and care.
Diego's media path expanded outside Puerto Rico through the Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University in Virginia. Nominated by a school counselor, he arrived ready to represent his Caribbean perspective among fellow National Youth Correspondents. Speaking English in a new setting was a new experience, yet Diego took to heart advice from one of the speakers that changed his outlook. Raise your hand. Share what you know. He embraced the experience, held a conversation with staff from his congressional representative, and received praise for his questions on political, social, and economic issues affecting Puerto Rico. The program strengthened his knowledge of media work and sparked interest in political reporting.
Curiosity guides Diego across disciplines. As a science researcher, he investigated arsenic levels in residential drinking water in Guayama and explored connections to cancer incidence near a coal ash power plant. His work earned second place at the Metropolitan Science Fair Puerto Rico in the Medicine and Health category. Diego views this research as a journalistic duty to reveal issues that affect vulnerable communities, guided by his belief that protecting life is a central responsibility. He plans to submit his findings to the College of Chemists of Puerto Rico and advocate for legislative attention on coal ash management.
Service holds equal weight in Diego's story. Through a school program focused on community service and leadership, he joined a team that spent several months visiting over twenty public schools to identify students who could benefit from tutoring for entrance exams to his institution. Diego often led conversations with school officials, guided peers in shared responsibility, and dedicated multiple hours each week to the effort. Parents shared appreciation for the guidance and honesty the group offered, while students began to show steady academic progress. These moments strengthened his empathy and commitment to education access. In school life, Diego also served as a peer minister and Kairos retreat participant, offering support and listening space to classmates.
Diego contributes his voice to broader student forums through Model United Nations, where he earned Best Delegation and Outstanding Delegation awards. He also leads the Oratory Club and participates as an interviewer for CSI News + Media sports coverage. Diego shapes school storytelling from multiple angles as President of The Shield yearbook, and he organizes CSI social justice campaigns, bringing student concerns into public view. Recognition includes a Washington Journalism & Media Conference certificate, National Honor Society membership, and third place in an oratory poetry competition. In the classroom, Diego maintains an unweighted 4.0 GPA while completing a demanding course of study.
Looking ahead, Diego plans to study meteorology with a minor in journalism at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Pennsylvania State University, or Fairfield University. He hopes to study atmospheric phenomena, inform communities, and keep telling stories that protect life and strengthen understanding across Puerto Rico and beyond.
SILVER - Kamila Gonzalez
Major: Journalism with a minor in Marketing
High School: Thomas Alva Edison School
Hometown: Caguas, PR
When Kamila Gonzalez noticed that her high school lacked spaces for students to share their stories, report school news, or find an outlet for creativity, she did not wait for someone else to fix it. Kamila wrote a proposal, pitched it to the administration at Thomas Alva Edison School, and designed what she calls "a structured resemblance to a newsroom." After weeks of anticipation, her plan was approved, and the school's first journalism club was born.
What started as an idea became a platform. Under Kamila's leadership, the club launched a podcast, a newspaper, and began conducting interviews across the student body. She organized meetings, helped members sharpen their writing and interviewing skills, and watched as they found their footing. "Watching their voices grow stronger and spirits shine brighter made me realize that this was no longer 'just my club,'" she shares. "It now belonged to the entire school community." For Kamila, the club represents more than a leadership role. It marks her first step toward a future in media, and she takes pride knowing the platform will continue amplifying student voices long after she graduates.
Kamila's interest in journalism took fuller shape during the National Student Leadership Conference Journalism Program last summer, where she participated in college-level media classes taught by university professors and professional journalists. Their guidance helped her visualize herself in the industry. The program's final project, a weeklong newsroom simulation, challenged Kamila to pitch ideas, write scripts, film, and edit. She took on the creative lead, directing and reporting her group's news segment. By the end, her work earned her four awards, including Best Video, Best Reporter, Best Branding, and Best Interview.
Growing up in Puerto Rico with cerebral palsy has shaped how Kamila moves through the world and how she understands the purpose of storytelling. Learning resilience early on, she developed a sharp awareness of what it feels like to go unheard. That perspective now informs her approach to journalism. Kamila carries visibility as a guiding principle when interviewing, especially for marginalized groups on her island, and creates content that prioritizes social consciousness. In her view, journalism is a way to amplify voices that are often kept aside.
Service has become central to who Kamila is. Through her school's Together Club, she has participated in beach cleanups, food drives, toy donations, and elderly companionship visits. Kamila's most meaningful experience came while volunteering at CASA Hogar, an orphanage in her community. She and fellow volunteers organized games, arts and crafts, and performed short plays for the children. "Feeling the warm, goodbye hugs from the kids as we left made me realize the true meaning of presence," she recalls. "We did not just entertain them. We gave them warmth, attention, and their very own sense of belonging." Kamila now serves on the Together Club's directive committee, where she initiates and leads service activities.
Kamila is also Vice President of her school's Forensics and Oratory League and a member of the Student Council. Her recommender, Ariana I. Ramos Santiago, describes her as someone who "uplifts those around her, inspiring classmates to pursue excellence in journalism and media." Ramos Santiago notes that Kamila's perspective, shaped by navigating challenges with perseverance, enriches her storytelling with empathy, inclusivity, and integrity.
Kamila will pursue journalism with a minor in marketing at Syracuse University, New York University, or the University of Miami. For this young Puerto Rican journalist, the goal remains the same one she set when she first founded her club: raising the voices that deserve to be heard.
High School: Thomas Alva Edison School
Hometown: Caguas, PR
When Kamila Gonzalez noticed that her high school lacked spaces for students to share their stories, report school news, or find an outlet for creativity, she did not wait for someone else to fix it. Kamila wrote a proposal, pitched it to the administration at Thomas Alva Edison School, and designed what she calls "a structured resemblance to a newsroom." After weeks of anticipation, her plan was approved, and the school's first journalism club was born.
What started as an idea became a platform. Under Kamila's leadership, the club launched a podcast, a newspaper, and began conducting interviews across the student body. She organized meetings, helped members sharpen their writing and interviewing skills, and watched as they found their footing. "Watching their voices grow stronger and spirits shine brighter made me realize that this was no longer 'just my club,'" she shares. "It now belonged to the entire school community." For Kamila, the club represents more than a leadership role. It marks her first step toward a future in media, and she takes pride knowing the platform will continue amplifying student voices long after she graduates.
Kamila's interest in journalism took fuller shape during the National Student Leadership Conference Journalism Program last summer, where she participated in college-level media classes taught by university professors and professional journalists. Their guidance helped her visualize herself in the industry. The program's final project, a weeklong newsroom simulation, challenged Kamila to pitch ideas, write scripts, film, and edit. She took on the creative lead, directing and reporting her group's news segment. By the end, her work earned her four awards, including Best Video, Best Reporter, Best Branding, and Best Interview.
Growing up in Puerto Rico with cerebral palsy has shaped how Kamila moves through the world and how she understands the purpose of storytelling. Learning resilience early on, she developed a sharp awareness of what it feels like to go unheard. That perspective now informs her approach to journalism. Kamila carries visibility as a guiding principle when interviewing, especially for marginalized groups on her island, and creates content that prioritizes social consciousness. In her view, journalism is a way to amplify voices that are often kept aside.
Service has become central to who Kamila is. Through her school's Together Club, she has participated in beach cleanups, food drives, toy donations, and elderly companionship visits. Kamila's most meaningful experience came while volunteering at CASA Hogar, an orphanage in her community. She and fellow volunteers organized games, arts and crafts, and performed short plays for the children. "Feeling the warm, goodbye hugs from the kids as we left made me realize the true meaning of presence," she recalls. "We did not just entertain them. We gave them warmth, attention, and their very own sense of belonging." Kamila now serves on the Together Club's directive committee, where she initiates and leads service activities.
Kamila is also Vice President of her school's Forensics and Oratory League and a member of the Student Council. Her recommender, Ariana I. Ramos Santiago, describes her as someone who "uplifts those around her, inspiring classmates to pursue excellence in journalism and media." Ramos Santiago notes that Kamila's perspective, shaped by navigating challenges with perseverance, enriches her storytelling with empathy, inclusivity, and integrity.
Kamila will pursue journalism with a minor in marketing at Syracuse University, New York University, or the University of Miami. For this young Puerto Rican journalist, the goal remains the same one she set when she first founded her club: raising the voices that deserve to be heard.
BRONZE - Karolina Garcia
Major: Musical Theater and Directing with a minor in Acting
High School: Mil Mascaras Arts Academy
Hometown: San German, PR
Karolina Garcia learned early that a stage can hold more than applause. For her, performance has always carried a message, whether it comes through a song, a scene, or a line delivered straight into a camera lens. At Mil Mascaras Arts Academy in Hormigueros, Puerto Rico, Karolina has expanded that instinct into journalism and media, choosing communication as a place where her voice can inform, question, and move people toward change.
About a year ago, Karolina joined her school's communication program and began training in skills that asked for focus and control: reading from a teleprompter, conducting interviews, and editing across platforms. Those lessons prepared her to audition for Mil Mascaras Hoy, her school television program that airs each Sunday. Selected as an anchor, Karolina stepped into a role that demanded clarity under pressure, then grew into opportunities that took her across Puerto Rico. She has interviewed actress and television presenter Tita Guerrero, model and TV host Ivonne Orsini, and comedian and presenter Jasond Calderón, while also appearing as an interviewee. Through this work, Karolina credits the program with strengthening her diction and her ability to speak with composure in high-pressure settings.
Karolina's proudest journalism and media milestone centers on a film shaped by the southwest coast of her island. In August 2025, she began work on Raíces y Arena, a project scheduled to be showcased at Puerto Rican film festival Festival Ponte los Cortos. While she has worked with the festival before, this is her first time taking on the roles of director, producer, and writer. Karolina describes a strong connection to nature and the unique beauty of Puerto Rico's land, paired with concern over beaches being sold and the public losing access to spaces that once belonged to everyone. Through Raíces y Arena, she aims to raise awareness about how those changes have affected the younger generation, especially those who grew up with the ocean as part of everyday life. For Karolina, this film is a way to speak up, to be heard, and to pursue change, one project at a time.
Karolina's growth in film has unfolded through consistent work in her school program and in festival spaces. During her first year in communications, she earned a nomination for best actress for that year's short film at Festival Ponte los Cortos. Karolina also took part in Film Club through a Carnegie Mellon University pre-college program and earned Best Short Film recognition through that program in 2025, adding another marker of her range as she builds experience in direction and production.
Karolina's view of media has also been shaped by what she sees around her in Puerto Rico. She describes a territory challenged by natural disasters and man-made political disasters, where funding and programming for arts and education have rarely been a priority. Karolina also speaks openly about mental health as a concern for her generation, especially in an era shaped by technology and limited resources. Looking ahead, she hopes to return to Isla del Encanto with training in fine arts and create a mental health resource through a community theater or creative wellness program, giving younger people an outlet for expression and care.
Service, for Karolina, looks like mentorship and presence. About a year ago, she began guiding younger girls and preparing them for a dance competition, then took on the work of starting her school's mini dance team. More recently, when her school dance team was selected for a collaboration with another arts-driven school, Karolina supported the project and helped students prepare for a play, drawing on her own experience performing in that theater. She also shares that her creative work has been used to raise awareness about violence against women, using art as a form of voice and responsibility.
Carlos Castro Pacheco, Karolina's former English teacher, describes her as a leader and team player who brings out the best in people, noting her growth into an actor, short-film director, singer-songwriter, and dancer. Karolina has carried that same discipline into her academics, earning an unweighted 4.0 GPA while balancing rehearsals, filming, and school responsibilities.
Next, Karolina plans to study musical theater and directing with a minor in acting at The Juilliard School, New York University, or Carnegie Mellon University. She hopes to keep building stories through performance and media, using each project as a chance to speak from the heart, represent Puerto Rico with pride, and give her community work that feels like truth.
High School: Mil Mascaras Arts Academy
Hometown: San German, PR
Karolina Garcia learned early that a stage can hold more than applause. For her, performance has always carried a message, whether it comes through a song, a scene, or a line delivered straight into a camera lens. At Mil Mascaras Arts Academy in Hormigueros, Puerto Rico, Karolina has expanded that instinct into journalism and media, choosing communication as a place where her voice can inform, question, and move people toward change.
About a year ago, Karolina joined her school's communication program and began training in skills that asked for focus and control: reading from a teleprompter, conducting interviews, and editing across platforms. Those lessons prepared her to audition for Mil Mascaras Hoy, her school television program that airs each Sunday. Selected as an anchor, Karolina stepped into a role that demanded clarity under pressure, then grew into opportunities that took her across Puerto Rico. She has interviewed actress and television presenter Tita Guerrero, model and TV host Ivonne Orsini, and comedian and presenter Jasond Calderón, while also appearing as an interviewee. Through this work, Karolina credits the program with strengthening her diction and her ability to speak with composure in high-pressure settings.
Karolina's proudest journalism and media milestone centers on a film shaped by the southwest coast of her island. In August 2025, she began work on Raíces y Arena, a project scheduled to be showcased at Puerto Rican film festival Festival Ponte los Cortos. While she has worked with the festival before, this is her first time taking on the roles of director, producer, and writer. Karolina describes a strong connection to nature and the unique beauty of Puerto Rico's land, paired with concern over beaches being sold and the public losing access to spaces that once belonged to everyone. Through Raíces y Arena, she aims to raise awareness about how those changes have affected the younger generation, especially those who grew up with the ocean as part of everyday life. For Karolina, this film is a way to speak up, to be heard, and to pursue change, one project at a time.
Karolina's growth in film has unfolded through consistent work in her school program and in festival spaces. During her first year in communications, she earned a nomination for best actress for that year's short film at Festival Ponte los Cortos. Karolina also took part in Film Club through a Carnegie Mellon University pre-college program and earned Best Short Film recognition through that program in 2025, adding another marker of her range as she builds experience in direction and production.
Karolina's view of media has also been shaped by what she sees around her in Puerto Rico. She describes a territory challenged by natural disasters and man-made political disasters, where funding and programming for arts and education have rarely been a priority. Karolina also speaks openly about mental health as a concern for her generation, especially in an era shaped by technology and limited resources. Looking ahead, she hopes to return to Isla del Encanto with training in fine arts and create a mental health resource through a community theater or creative wellness program, giving younger people an outlet for expression and care.
Service, for Karolina, looks like mentorship and presence. About a year ago, she began guiding younger girls and preparing them for a dance competition, then took on the work of starting her school's mini dance team. More recently, when her school dance team was selected for a collaboration with another arts-driven school, Karolina supported the project and helped students prepare for a play, drawing on her own experience performing in that theater. She also shares that her creative work has been used to raise awareness about violence against women, using art as a form of voice and responsibility.
Carlos Castro Pacheco, Karolina's former English teacher, describes her as a leader and team player who brings out the best in people, noting her growth into an actor, short-film director, singer-songwriter, and dancer. Karolina has carried that same discipline into her academics, earning an unweighted 4.0 GPA while balancing rehearsals, filming, and school responsibilities.
Next, Karolina plans to study musical theater and directing with a minor in acting at The Juilliard School, New York University, or Carnegie Mellon University. She hopes to keep building stories through performance and media, using each project as a chance to speak from the heart, represent Puerto Rico with pride, and give her community work that feels like truth.
Teal Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Gianna Cid
Major: Advertising, Communications, Digital Media Studies with a minor in Film, Photography
High School: Lone Peak High School
Hometown: Cedar Hills, UT
Gianna Cid signed up for a videography class her sophomore year thinking it would be nothing more than an interesting elective. By the middle of that fall semester, her video teacher saw something in Gianna that she had not yet recognized in herself. He asked her to serve as an editor for a national film competition and to create recap videos for the school's wrestling team, opportunities typically reserved for upperclassmen. Hesitant at first, unsure of her own skills, Gianna decided to participate anyway. "I discovered how capable I really am," she recalls. "Those experiences changed everything for me. What was only an interest became a passion and what I want to do as a career.”
For the past three years, Gianna has been going all in. Her list of experiences reads like a media production apprenticeship: photography and video production classes, a graphic design internship with SheTech, a media and marketing internship with Shine Cosmetics, three national film competitions, and freelance photography and videography work. Gianna serves as Social Media Representative on her school's student council and is a member of the Technology Student Association. She has also filmed behind-the-scenes content for a professional commercial shoot for BlenderBottle featuring a university soccer team. Gianna's efforts earned her a nomination as Lone Peak High School's Sterling Scholar in Skilled and Technical Science, as well as the BAMSTAR Award for excellence in videography and media production.
Gianna's most demanding test came at the All-American High School Film Festival in New York City in October 2025, the world's largest high school film competition, screening over 2,500 student films each year. As director, cinematographer, editor, and producer for her six-person team, Gianna led them in creating a fiction film about tennis under a three-day deadline. The catch? She knew nothing about the sport. Preparation required hours of weekly work: developing a detailed shot-list spreadsheet, writing the script, learning new equipment, and gathering sound effects, music, and props. In New York, unexpected challenges with locations and time constraints forced Gianna to adapt on the spot, reorganizing plans and rewriting the script multiple times when finding tennis courts in the city proved more difficult than expected. "Although one of my most challenging activities," she shares, "the experience was rewarding because it strengthened my skills in leadership, teamwork, organization, time management, flexibility, and adaptability. And in the end, we created a film I'm truly proud of.”
The values that guide Gianna's work come from her parents. Both overcame significant challenges to put themselves through college and build successful careers; her mother as a school nurse and her father as a business owner. Their example taught Gianna that hard work, persistence, sacrifice, education, good character, and faith can carry a person through any obstacle. "I never give up no matter how tired, busy, stressed, or inexperienced I am in something," she writes. Those values shape how Gianna approaches every project, and they have made her someone her family and peers know to be hardworking and reliable.
Gianna carries that same mindset into her service work. Through her church youth group, where she held a leadership role for two years, she helped organize activities focused on social connection and community service, including delivering meals and doing yardwork for seniors and preparing supplies for refugees. As a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) for two years, Gianna has contributed to projects like making STEM kits for children, creating blankets and cards for patients, running a Thanksgiving food drive for seniors, and playing piano for nursing home residents. This year, she serves as an NHS cabinet member, helping organize monthly service projects and creating promotional flyers. Gianna's contributions have earned her the NHS Certificate of Exemplary Service. She also tutors Spanish-speaking children each week through United Way to help them learn to read English, a commitment that earned her United Way's Volunteer of the Month recognition. When the National Day of Service brought 5,000 volunteers together in her community, Gianna served as lead videographer. "Capturing their stories showed me the real impact of a collective effort," she reflects.
At a school of more than 2,600 students, mostly from similar backgrounds, Gianna has noticed that students who come from different experiences can sometimes feel out of place. She wants to use her videography skills and connections through the film program, student council, and clubs to create short videos highlighting the diversity that does exist at Lone Peak, with the goal of encouraging understanding and helping students who feel isolated find a stronger sense of belonging.
David M. Kono, who has worked with church youth for three decades, writes that he has "never known any who is more driven or accomplished than Gianna is for her age." He describes her as a highly accomplished photographer and videographer, a highly successful digital content creator across multiple platforms, and someone who does more than dabble in her many pursuits. "The only thing lacking on her life resume," he adds, "is sleep.”
Gianna holds a 3.99 unweighted GPA while balancing academics, internships, competitions, service, and freelance work. She will pursue advertising, communications, or digital media studies with a minor in film and photography at Brigham Young University, the University of Utah, or the University of Texas at Austin. Her goal is to work in the creative side of advertising, producing commercials, music videos, sports highlight reels, social media content, and more. If the path from elective to calling has taught Gianna anything, it is that capability often reveals itself to those willing to say yes.
High School: Lone Peak High School
Hometown: Cedar Hills, UT
Gianna Cid signed up for a videography class her sophomore year thinking it would be nothing more than an interesting elective. By the middle of that fall semester, her video teacher saw something in Gianna that she had not yet recognized in herself. He asked her to serve as an editor for a national film competition and to create recap videos for the school's wrestling team, opportunities typically reserved for upperclassmen. Hesitant at first, unsure of her own skills, Gianna decided to participate anyway. "I discovered how capable I really am," she recalls. "Those experiences changed everything for me. What was only an interest became a passion and what I want to do as a career.”
For the past three years, Gianna has been going all in. Her list of experiences reads like a media production apprenticeship: photography and video production classes, a graphic design internship with SheTech, a media and marketing internship with Shine Cosmetics, three national film competitions, and freelance photography and videography work. Gianna serves as Social Media Representative on her school's student council and is a member of the Technology Student Association. She has also filmed behind-the-scenes content for a professional commercial shoot for BlenderBottle featuring a university soccer team. Gianna's efforts earned her a nomination as Lone Peak High School's Sterling Scholar in Skilled and Technical Science, as well as the BAMSTAR Award for excellence in videography and media production.
Gianna's most demanding test came at the All-American High School Film Festival in New York City in October 2025, the world's largest high school film competition, screening over 2,500 student films each year. As director, cinematographer, editor, and producer for her six-person team, Gianna led them in creating a fiction film about tennis under a three-day deadline. The catch? She knew nothing about the sport. Preparation required hours of weekly work: developing a detailed shot-list spreadsheet, writing the script, learning new equipment, and gathering sound effects, music, and props. In New York, unexpected challenges with locations and time constraints forced Gianna to adapt on the spot, reorganizing plans and rewriting the script multiple times when finding tennis courts in the city proved more difficult than expected. "Although one of my most challenging activities," she shares, "the experience was rewarding because it strengthened my skills in leadership, teamwork, organization, time management, flexibility, and adaptability. And in the end, we created a film I'm truly proud of.”
The values that guide Gianna's work come from her parents. Both overcame significant challenges to put themselves through college and build successful careers; her mother as a school nurse and her father as a business owner. Their example taught Gianna that hard work, persistence, sacrifice, education, good character, and faith can carry a person through any obstacle. "I never give up no matter how tired, busy, stressed, or inexperienced I am in something," she writes. Those values shape how Gianna approaches every project, and they have made her someone her family and peers know to be hardworking and reliable.
Gianna carries that same mindset into her service work. Through her church youth group, where she held a leadership role for two years, she helped organize activities focused on social connection and community service, including delivering meals and doing yardwork for seniors and preparing supplies for refugees. As a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) for two years, Gianna has contributed to projects like making STEM kits for children, creating blankets and cards for patients, running a Thanksgiving food drive for seniors, and playing piano for nursing home residents. This year, she serves as an NHS cabinet member, helping organize monthly service projects and creating promotional flyers. Gianna's contributions have earned her the NHS Certificate of Exemplary Service. She also tutors Spanish-speaking children each week through United Way to help them learn to read English, a commitment that earned her United Way's Volunteer of the Month recognition. When the National Day of Service brought 5,000 volunteers together in her community, Gianna served as lead videographer. "Capturing their stories showed me the real impact of a collective effort," she reflects.
At a school of more than 2,600 students, mostly from similar backgrounds, Gianna has noticed that students who come from different experiences can sometimes feel out of place. She wants to use her videography skills and connections through the film program, student council, and clubs to create short videos highlighting the diversity that does exist at Lone Peak, with the goal of encouraging understanding and helping students who feel isolated find a stronger sense of belonging.
David M. Kono, who has worked with church youth for three decades, writes that he has "never known any who is more driven or accomplished than Gianna is for her age." He describes her as a highly accomplished photographer and videographer, a highly successful digital content creator across multiple platforms, and someone who does more than dabble in her many pursuits. "The only thing lacking on her life resume," he adds, "is sleep.”
Gianna holds a 3.99 unweighted GPA while balancing academics, internships, competitions, service, and freelance work. She will pursue advertising, communications, or digital media studies with a minor in film and photography at Brigham Young University, the University of Utah, or the University of Texas at Austin. Her goal is to work in the creative side of advertising, producing commercials, music videos, sports highlight reels, social media content, and more. If the path from elective to calling has taught Gianna anything, it is that capability often reveals itself to those willing to say yes.
SILVER - Ariana Espino
Major: Journalism with a minor in Creative Writing
High School: Borah High School
Hometown: Boise, ID
Ariana Espino writes with care, revisiting each line until her voice feels clear enough to be heard. At Borah High School in Boise, Idaho, Ariana has built a journalism and media path through language first, then through the camera, guided by a clear goal she names for herself: to share her voice and her art with other people, and to use her words in service of what matters.
Ariana's proudest milestone came when her poem "My Lover in the Rain" was selected for Valley Visions 2025, an art and literacy showcase magazine. She first drafted the piece for Writing Without Walls, where she has earned the honor of being featured twice, then kept refining it before submitting to Valley Visions. When doubt started to creep in, Ariana confided in her ceramics teacher, gathered courage, and entered her work anyway. Out of more than 200 submissions, her poem was chosen among 50 pieces by 40 writers. Ariana still remembers the joy of seeing her name in print, and she stepped onto the showcase stage as an opener with the kind of pride that comes from earning every line.
That publication opened a new door. Ariana received an invitation to serve as a student literary editor for Valley Visions 2026, taking on the responsibility of selecting pieces for the next edition. For a young writer who has spent years learning how to trust her own voice, the role signals something simple and powerful: editors saw her judgment, not just her talent.
While words remain her home base, Ariana has also started exploring the visual side of journalism through photojournalism. As an intern photographer with Fenix Media Link, she is learning how to frame people and places with intention, carrying the same care she brings to writing into each image. Ariana describes this work as part of her goal to understand what it means to be a journalist, and to use storytelling to bring attention to injustice.
Ariana brings that same drive into leadership. She serves as treasurer of Borah High School Key Club, where she supports member outreach, fundraising, and service project planning, and she takes pride in recognizing people who show up to help. Ariana is also a youth ambassador for Leadership Boise Academy and earned a certificate of completion in 2025, later returning as an ambassador to help plan logistics for the next class. She has taken part in programs such as YouthWorks and Rapid Education Prototyping through Boise State University TRIO ETS, working as a designer and presenter. Ariana has also contributed as a youth speaker for an Idaho resiliency presentation. She also volunteers in ways centered on younger students, including buddy-reading and helping plan events such as Family-Second Saturday at the Idaho State Museum. In each setting, Ariana says she is inspired to give back in the way she never had, and points back to what motivates her most: showing younger students that their ideas and futures matter.
Ariana's mentor, Anthony E. Sanchez, who has worked with her for three years, describes her as one of the strongest student writers he has supported, noting that her writing is technically precise and expressive, with an ability to communicate emotion and insight with clarity. He also points to her growth over time, from second-guessing her voice to taking creative risks, seeking feedback, and using challenges as motivation to keep improving. Sanchez adds that her bilingualism and pride in Spanish language and culture reflect a desire to build bridges between communities, and he highlights the warmth and sincerity Ariana brings to every environment she enters.
In school, Ariana's dedication has earned recognition for excellence and leadership, including Borah Senator’s Choice Awards in 2024 and 2025 and a 2025 First-Generation Recognition Award from the College Board. She holds an unweighted 4.0 GPA and continues to challenge herself through advanced coursework while balancing creative projects and leadership commitments.
Next, Ariana plans to pursue journalism with a minor in creative writing at the University of Pennsylvania, Boston University, or the University of Idaho. She hopes to keep writing as a poet and future fiction author while strengthening her reporting, using language and images to help people feel seen and to bring attention to stories that should not be ignored.
High School: Borah High School
Hometown: Boise, ID
Ariana Espino writes with care, revisiting each line until her voice feels clear enough to be heard. At Borah High School in Boise, Idaho, Ariana has built a journalism and media path through language first, then through the camera, guided by a clear goal she names for herself: to share her voice and her art with other people, and to use her words in service of what matters.
Ariana's proudest milestone came when her poem "My Lover in the Rain" was selected for Valley Visions 2025, an art and literacy showcase magazine. She first drafted the piece for Writing Without Walls, where she has earned the honor of being featured twice, then kept refining it before submitting to Valley Visions. When doubt started to creep in, Ariana confided in her ceramics teacher, gathered courage, and entered her work anyway. Out of more than 200 submissions, her poem was chosen among 50 pieces by 40 writers. Ariana still remembers the joy of seeing her name in print, and she stepped onto the showcase stage as an opener with the kind of pride that comes from earning every line.
That publication opened a new door. Ariana received an invitation to serve as a student literary editor for Valley Visions 2026, taking on the responsibility of selecting pieces for the next edition. For a young writer who has spent years learning how to trust her own voice, the role signals something simple and powerful: editors saw her judgment, not just her talent.
While words remain her home base, Ariana has also started exploring the visual side of journalism through photojournalism. As an intern photographer with Fenix Media Link, she is learning how to frame people and places with intention, carrying the same care she brings to writing into each image. Ariana describes this work as part of her goal to understand what it means to be a journalist, and to use storytelling to bring attention to injustice.
Ariana brings that same drive into leadership. She serves as treasurer of Borah High School Key Club, where she supports member outreach, fundraising, and service project planning, and she takes pride in recognizing people who show up to help. Ariana is also a youth ambassador for Leadership Boise Academy and earned a certificate of completion in 2025, later returning as an ambassador to help plan logistics for the next class. She has taken part in programs such as YouthWorks and Rapid Education Prototyping through Boise State University TRIO ETS, working as a designer and presenter. Ariana has also contributed as a youth speaker for an Idaho resiliency presentation. She also volunteers in ways centered on younger students, including buddy-reading and helping plan events such as Family-Second Saturday at the Idaho State Museum. In each setting, Ariana says she is inspired to give back in the way she never had, and points back to what motivates her most: showing younger students that their ideas and futures matter.
Ariana's mentor, Anthony E. Sanchez, who has worked with her for three years, describes her as one of the strongest student writers he has supported, noting that her writing is technically precise and expressive, with an ability to communicate emotion and insight with clarity. He also points to her growth over time, from second-guessing her voice to taking creative risks, seeking feedback, and using challenges as motivation to keep improving. Sanchez adds that her bilingualism and pride in Spanish language and culture reflect a desire to build bridges between communities, and he highlights the warmth and sincerity Ariana brings to every environment she enters.
In school, Ariana's dedication has earned recognition for excellence and leadership, including Borah Senator’s Choice Awards in 2024 and 2025 and a 2025 First-Generation Recognition Award from the College Board. She holds an unweighted 4.0 GPA and continues to challenge herself through advanced coursework while balancing creative projects and leadership commitments.
Next, Ariana plans to pursue journalism with a minor in creative writing at the University of Pennsylvania, Boston University, or the University of Idaho. She hopes to keep writing as a poet and future fiction author while strengthening her reporting, using language and images to help people feel seen and to bring attention to stories that should not be ignored.
BRONZE - Lily Martinez
Major: Multimedia Production in Journalism with minors in Business and Creative Writing
High School: Prairie View High School
Hometown: Commerce City, CO
A camera angle can shift meaning. Music can carry emotion. A voice can transform an ordinary moment into something worth remembering. Lily Martinez noticed these details before she ever held a camera herself. When Prairie View High School launched PVTV, its first-ever student television network, during the 2024-25 school year, Lily arrived ready to learn what creating that work required.
PVTV became the place where curiosity turned into capability. Lily learned to plan segments, operate professional equipment, and communicate with confidence on camera. She worked with industry-standard tools, including a Tricaster Mini, Canon XA60 cameras, and Rode microphones, while also mastering Adobe Premiere Pro, earning an industry certification in the editing software. Her teacher, Autumn Hartley, notes that Lily excelled in every leadership role the program offered, from studio manager to producer, while demonstrating collaboration, time management, and creativity in segment production. Lily took on interviews, in-the-field reporting, and projects that asked her to step outside her comfort zone and connect with people across her school community.
Among all her PVTV work, one accomplishment stands apart. Lily produced a feature segment entirely on her own, handling every stage from brainstorming the concept to filming, editing, and presenting the final story. The project required balancing creativity with responsibility, and completing it proved to her that she could bring a full vision to life. "These segments weren't just a project," she shares. "They were moments in which my hard work, planning, and growing skill set came together.”
Lily's skills caught attention outside school walls. In August 2025, she appeared on 9News for their back-to-school morning show coverage, speaking live on air at 6, 7, and 8 a.m. Hartley, who watched Lily speak with ease and confidence in front of a professional broadcast audience, describes her as "kind, bright and talented" and notes that watching her grow "has been such a gift." Through PVTV, Lily also connected with professionals in video production, broadcasting, and content creation, relationships that helped her understand industry expectations, workflow, and the value of networking.
This year, Lily's role has shifted from student to mentor. As an Instructional Assistant (IA) for PVTV, she manages the program's social media channels, reviews student segments, and plans and directs the show. Lily works alongside three other IAs to support the current class, teaching her peers and providing constructive feedback. The student who once learned to hold a camera now teaches others how to use one.
Lily's approach to media draws from her Mexican heritage and a home where music was always playing. "Speaking Spanish constantly while growing up taught me the value of language and communication," Lily reflects, noting how a single idea can shift in tone, warmth, or meaning depending on how it is expressed. She earned a Seal of Biliteracy in 2024, evidence of the linguistic fluency she carries into her work. For Lily, creativity is built from culture, language, and lived experience, and she believes stories grow stronger when they reflect more than one perspective.
Service has shaped Lily as much as storytelling. She has participated in park cleanups, made blankets for people experiencing homelessness, created care bags filled with essentials for individuals and families in need, and raised money at school for causes supporting struggling families and community programs. These experiences taught Lily patience, creativity, and the importance of listening to what different groups need rather than assuming. "Community service doesn't require being perfect or having all the answers," she says. "It simply requires showing up.”
Lily is a member of FCCLA and continues building her skills in audio and visual production. Upon completing a four-year degree, she will be the first in her family to reach that milestone. Lily plans to continue her studies at the University of Northern Colorado, the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, or the University of Denver, majoring in multimedia production in journalism with minors in business and creative writing. Where others see ordinary moments, Lily sees stories waiting to be told.
High School: Prairie View High School
Hometown: Commerce City, CO
A camera angle can shift meaning. Music can carry emotion. A voice can transform an ordinary moment into something worth remembering. Lily Martinez noticed these details before she ever held a camera herself. When Prairie View High School launched PVTV, its first-ever student television network, during the 2024-25 school year, Lily arrived ready to learn what creating that work required.
PVTV became the place where curiosity turned into capability. Lily learned to plan segments, operate professional equipment, and communicate with confidence on camera. She worked with industry-standard tools, including a Tricaster Mini, Canon XA60 cameras, and Rode microphones, while also mastering Adobe Premiere Pro, earning an industry certification in the editing software. Her teacher, Autumn Hartley, notes that Lily excelled in every leadership role the program offered, from studio manager to producer, while demonstrating collaboration, time management, and creativity in segment production. Lily took on interviews, in-the-field reporting, and projects that asked her to step outside her comfort zone and connect with people across her school community.
Among all her PVTV work, one accomplishment stands apart. Lily produced a feature segment entirely on her own, handling every stage from brainstorming the concept to filming, editing, and presenting the final story. The project required balancing creativity with responsibility, and completing it proved to her that she could bring a full vision to life. "These segments weren't just a project," she shares. "They were moments in which my hard work, planning, and growing skill set came together.”
Lily's skills caught attention outside school walls. In August 2025, she appeared on 9News for their back-to-school morning show coverage, speaking live on air at 6, 7, and 8 a.m. Hartley, who watched Lily speak with ease and confidence in front of a professional broadcast audience, describes her as "kind, bright and talented" and notes that watching her grow "has been such a gift." Through PVTV, Lily also connected with professionals in video production, broadcasting, and content creation, relationships that helped her understand industry expectations, workflow, and the value of networking.
This year, Lily's role has shifted from student to mentor. As an Instructional Assistant (IA) for PVTV, she manages the program's social media channels, reviews student segments, and plans and directs the show. Lily works alongside three other IAs to support the current class, teaching her peers and providing constructive feedback. The student who once learned to hold a camera now teaches others how to use one.
Lily's approach to media draws from her Mexican heritage and a home where music was always playing. "Speaking Spanish constantly while growing up taught me the value of language and communication," Lily reflects, noting how a single idea can shift in tone, warmth, or meaning depending on how it is expressed. She earned a Seal of Biliteracy in 2024, evidence of the linguistic fluency she carries into her work. For Lily, creativity is built from culture, language, and lived experience, and she believes stories grow stronger when they reflect more than one perspective.
Service has shaped Lily as much as storytelling. She has participated in park cleanups, made blankets for people experiencing homelessness, created care bags filled with essentials for individuals and families in need, and raised money at school for causes supporting struggling families and community programs. These experiences taught Lily patience, creativity, and the importance of listening to what different groups need rather than assuming. "Community service doesn't require being perfect or having all the answers," she says. "It simply requires showing up.”
Lily is a member of FCCLA and continues building her skills in audio and visual production. Upon completing a four-year degree, she will be the first in her family to reach that milestone. Lily plans to continue her studies at the University of Northern Colorado, the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, or the University of Denver, majoring in multimedia production in journalism with minors in business and creative writing. Where others see ordinary moments, Lily sees stories waiting to be told.
Yellow Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Solei Rodriguez
Major: Communication Disorders with a minor in Psychology
High School: Rio Rancho High School
Hometown: Rio Rancho, NM
When Solei Rodriguez arrived at Rio Rancho High School as a freshman, no Youth and Government delegation existed. She did not wait for one to appear. Solei identified a faculty sponsor, recruited her peers, and helped establish a club from scratch. Hannah Wood, New Mexico's State Director for YMCA Youth and Government, describes this level of initiative as "rare even among [their] most experienced participants." Four years later, that same initiative has carried Solei to statewide leadership, national recognition, and a media presence she built with her own hands.
Solei first stepped into media work in 2022 as a Media Delegate for New Mexico Youth and Government. Two years later, Wood appointed her to serve as the state's Media Director, a role demanding technical skill and leadership under tight deadlines. Solei coordinated a team of media delegates responsible for daily coverage of legislative sessions, interviews, and feature stories during a high-intensity model government conference. She oversaw all photography, video production, and social media content, creating highlight reels and managing live coverage while encouraging collaboration and creativity within her team. When Solei first joined, coverage was limited to a few photos here and there with little storytelling beyond the events themselves. She helped change that approach by implementing organized content teams, introducing post-conference highlight reels, and managing consistent social media updates throughout the year. The most rewarding part, Solei shares, was hearing delegates say the coverage "helped them feel seen and informed, especially first-year participants who weren't sure they belonged.”
Solei's work earned her selection to represent New Mexico at the YMCA Conference on National Affairs (CONA) for two consecutive years, a distinction awarded to only one or two delegates statewide. At CONA, Solei joined student journalists, photographers, and videographers from across the country to document the week through photography, interviews, and storytelling. She was challenged to think on her feet, adapt to a fast-paced national environment, and present ideas in ways that resonated with peers she had just met. "I wasn't just reporting," she reflects. "I was preserving memories and amplifying youth voices." The experience sharpened her understanding that storytelling is about empathy, accuracy, and purpose, and Solei brought that energy back to her state program.
Solei also served as Media Leader for Middle School Youth and Government, where she spent countless hours mentoring younger students in photography, editing, and journalistic writing. Her focus went beyond technical skills. Solei wanted to help them find confidence in their voices. Watching middle school students and new high school delegates go from shy observers to enthusiastic participants became one of the most fulfilling parts of her role. "Watching them find their voices reminds me why I fell in love with media in the first place," she shares. "It empowers people to express themselves and share their perspectives." In 2024, Solei also served as Rio Rancho Youth and Government President, guiding her local delegation while continuing to build the program she helped establish as a freshman.
Wood describes Solei as someone who moves through leadership spaces with generosity, going out of her way to welcome new delegates and offer guidance to those stepping into leadership programming for the first time. Solei's emotional intelligence and kindness, Wood notes, make her "a stabilizing and uplifting presence in high-pressure, high-performing environments." Whether photographing delegates, interviewing peers, or editing footage, Solei aims to capture authenticity and represent people as they are, not just as they appear on the surface. She believes media can either empower or exclude, and her goal is to make space for those who often feel unseen.
Outside of media work, Solei dedicates time to creating promotional content for other organizations she is a part of, volunteering at school activities, and taking photos for fundraisers and events. "Giving back doesn't always mean doing something huge," she says. "Sometimes, it's about offering your skills to lift others up.”
Solei is also a U.S. competitive figure skater and synchronized skater, pursuits requiring personal discipline, time management, and mental resilience. She brings that same focus to her academic and extracurricular commitments, balancing her media work, leadership roles, and skating with grace.
Solei plans to study communication disorders with a minor in psychology at the University of Washington, Western Washington University, or the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. In her view, media done right does not just inform, it empowers. And Solei intends to keep building spaces where that can happen.
High School: Rio Rancho High School
Hometown: Rio Rancho, NM
When Solei Rodriguez arrived at Rio Rancho High School as a freshman, no Youth and Government delegation existed. She did not wait for one to appear. Solei identified a faculty sponsor, recruited her peers, and helped establish a club from scratch. Hannah Wood, New Mexico's State Director for YMCA Youth and Government, describes this level of initiative as "rare even among [their] most experienced participants." Four years later, that same initiative has carried Solei to statewide leadership, national recognition, and a media presence she built with her own hands.
Solei first stepped into media work in 2022 as a Media Delegate for New Mexico Youth and Government. Two years later, Wood appointed her to serve as the state's Media Director, a role demanding technical skill and leadership under tight deadlines. Solei coordinated a team of media delegates responsible for daily coverage of legislative sessions, interviews, and feature stories during a high-intensity model government conference. She oversaw all photography, video production, and social media content, creating highlight reels and managing live coverage while encouraging collaboration and creativity within her team. When Solei first joined, coverage was limited to a few photos here and there with little storytelling beyond the events themselves. She helped change that approach by implementing organized content teams, introducing post-conference highlight reels, and managing consistent social media updates throughout the year. The most rewarding part, Solei shares, was hearing delegates say the coverage "helped them feel seen and informed, especially first-year participants who weren't sure they belonged.”
Solei's work earned her selection to represent New Mexico at the YMCA Conference on National Affairs (CONA) for two consecutive years, a distinction awarded to only one or two delegates statewide. At CONA, Solei joined student journalists, photographers, and videographers from across the country to document the week through photography, interviews, and storytelling. She was challenged to think on her feet, adapt to a fast-paced national environment, and present ideas in ways that resonated with peers she had just met. "I wasn't just reporting," she reflects. "I was preserving memories and amplifying youth voices." The experience sharpened her understanding that storytelling is about empathy, accuracy, and purpose, and Solei brought that energy back to her state program.
Solei also served as Media Leader for Middle School Youth and Government, where she spent countless hours mentoring younger students in photography, editing, and journalistic writing. Her focus went beyond technical skills. Solei wanted to help them find confidence in their voices. Watching middle school students and new high school delegates go from shy observers to enthusiastic participants became one of the most fulfilling parts of her role. "Watching them find their voices reminds me why I fell in love with media in the first place," she shares. "It empowers people to express themselves and share their perspectives." In 2024, Solei also served as Rio Rancho Youth and Government President, guiding her local delegation while continuing to build the program she helped establish as a freshman.
Wood describes Solei as someone who moves through leadership spaces with generosity, going out of her way to welcome new delegates and offer guidance to those stepping into leadership programming for the first time. Solei's emotional intelligence and kindness, Wood notes, make her "a stabilizing and uplifting presence in high-pressure, high-performing environments." Whether photographing delegates, interviewing peers, or editing footage, Solei aims to capture authenticity and represent people as they are, not just as they appear on the surface. She believes media can either empower or exclude, and her goal is to make space for those who often feel unseen.
Outside of media work, Solei dedicates time to creating promotional content for other organizations she is a part of, volunteering at school activities, and taking photos for fundraisers and events. "Giving back doesn't always mean doing something huge," she says. "Sometimes, it's about offering your skills to lift others up.”
Solei is also a U.S. competitive figure skater and synchronized skater, pursuits requiring personal discipline, time management, and mental resilience. She brings that same focus to her academic and extracurricular commitments, balancing her media work, leadership roles, and skating with grace.
Solei plans to study communication disorders with a minor in psychology at the University of Washington, Western Washington University, or the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. In her view, media done right does not just inform, it empowers. And Solei intends to keep building spaces where that can happen.
SILVER - Ramon Gonzalez
Major: Film & TV Production with a minor in Cinematic Arts
High School: McClintock High School
Hometown: Tempe, AZ
Ramon Gonzalez learned to draw before he learned to frame a shot, but the instinct was the same. His older brother taught him how to sketch at a young age, and from there, Ramon threw himself into the craft, watching countless tutorials, reading books on technique, and practicing nearly every single day. That early exposure to visual storytelling followed him into high school, where it found a new form in film.
The moment that sharpened Ramon's focus came while watching The Batman in 2023. He was captivated by the film's use of visual imperfections to achieve a vulnerability he did not know was possible through the camera. From then on, Ramon became fascinated with all aspects of filmmaking and began exploring photography and journalism in high school. He entered Film & TV Production 1 as a sophomore at McClintock High School, and his proficiency in video editing and script writing caught his teacher's attention. She offered him opportunities usually reserved for more advanced students, including insight into the inner workings of news studios and college tours. That same year, Ramon won three awards for a short film at the Tempe Union High School District (TUHSD) Film Festival, including second place overall.
By junior year, Ramon had moved into Film & TV Production 2 and was co-producing his school's weekly video announcements alongside Advanced Film & TV Production students. He created a montage highlighting the unprecedented win streak of his school's varsity football team and conducted an interview with his previous principal, who was not only camera-shy but also recovering from a bad flu. "Her perseverance elevated the segment to being one of my best yet," Ramon recalls.
In his senior year, Ramon entered both segments into the Rocky Mountain Student Production Awards, a competition for high school and college students pursuing visual media. His teacher had spent years emphasizing the honor of this award and showcasing work from previous winners. Ramon won in the High School Sports Program category for his football montage. "Receiving proof that my skill and talent, combined with creativity and hard work, can result in this kind of success was overwhelmingly gratifying," he reflects. The recognition cemented in his mind that he has what it takes to achieve his goals in the film industry. That same year, Ramon also earned a Journalism Education Association/National Scholastic Press Association Broadcast Newswriting Honorable Mention.
James F. Christ, Ramon's Sophomore Honors English teacher and a published author, calls him "undoubtedly the best student [he has] ever had." Christ watched Ramon excel in the classroom and as an anchor on McClintock's weekly TV Wednesday news. In his class, Ramon finished the year with a 100% average, the only student to do so. He was one of just three students exempt from the final. What stands out to Christ beyond the grades is Ramon's willingness to help others. After finishing his grammar work in record time, Ramon would assist classmates who struggled, freeing Christ to reach everyone. "It was a big help," Christ writes, "and I know the other students benefited from it." Christ describes Ramon as someone with "a good heart" who "always enters class with a greeting and a smile." "If I had a business and needed to hire a dependable, capable manager/supervisor, someone whom I know would always be on time and do their work well, treating others fairly, Ramon would be my first hire," he adds.
Ramon carries that same care into his community work. Last summer, he volunteered with Service B4 Self, an organization focused on helping U.S. veterans improve their quality of life. Ramon assisted one veteran whose house had fallen into disrepair, helping pluck weeds, throw away trash, rip out water-damaged floorboards, and replace a kitchen sink. "It felt great to accomplish labor alongside other people with a shared mindset," he shares. "Our efforts will make this person's life better. That is a feeling above which none are greater.”
Ramon is a member of his school's Newspaper Club, serves as a Film & TV Production Intern, works as a TUHSD Video Production Assistant, and assists in McClintock's front office as a student worker. He maintains a 3.91 unweighted GPA while balancing his film work, service, and academics with a demanding course load. For Ramon, every person has a story worth telling simply because it is theirs, and that belief shapes how he approaches his craft.
Ramon plans to study film & TV production with a minor in cinematic arts at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, or the University of Southern California. His dream, as he puts it, is "to tell stunning visual stories that have the potential to change audience's lives for the better, as the tales of my time have done for me."
High School: McClintock High School
Hometown: Tempe, AZ
Ramon Gonzalez learned to draw before he learned to frame a shot, but the instinct was the same. His older brother taught him how to sketch at a young age, and from there, Ramon threw himself into the craft, watching countless tutorials, reading books on technique, and practicing nearly every single day. That early exposure to visual storytelling followed him into high school, where it found a new form in film.
The moment that sharpened Ramon's focus came while watching The Batman in 2023. He was captivated by the film's use of visual imperfections to achieve a vulnerability he did not know was possible through the camera. From then on, Ramon became fascinated with all aspects of filmmaking and began exploring photography and journalism in high school. He entered Film & TV Production 1 as a sophomore at McClintock High School, and his proficiency in video editing and script writing caught his teacher's attention. She offered him opportunities usually reserved for more advanced students, including insight into the inner workings of news studios and college tours. That same year, Ramon won three awards for a short film at the Tempe Union High School District (TUHSD) Film Festival, including second place overall.
By junior year, Ramon had moved into Film & TV Production 2 and was co-producing his school's weekly video announcements alongside Advanced Film & TV Production students. He created a montage highlighting the unprecedented win streak of his school's varsity football team and conducted an interview with his previous principal, who was not only camera-shy but also recovering from a bad flu. "Her perseverance elevated the segment to being one of my best yet," Ramon recalls.
In his senior year, Ramon entered both segments into the Rocky Mountain Student Production Awards, a competition for high school and college students pursuing visual media. His teacher had spent years emphasizing the honor of this award and showcasing work from previous winners. Ramon won in the High School Sports Program category for his football montage. "Receiving proof that my skill and talent, combined with creativity and hard work, can result in this kind of success was overwhelmingly gratifying," he reflects. The recognition cemented in his mind that he has what it takes to achieve his goals in the film industry. That same year, Ramon also earned a Journalism Education Association/National Scholastic Press Association Broadcast Newswriting Honorable Mention.
James F. Christ, Ramon's Sophomore Honors English teacher and a published author, calls him "undoubtedly the best student [he has] ever had." Christ watched Ramon excel in the classroom and as an anchor on McClintock's weekly TV Wednesday news. In his class, Ramon finished the year with a 100% average, the only student to do so. He was one of just three students exempt from the final. What stands out to Christ beyond the grades is Ramon's willingness to help others. After finishing his grammar work in record time, Ramon would assist classmates who struggled, freeing Christ to reach everyone. "It was a big help," Christ writes, "and I know the other students benefited from it." Christ describes Ramon as someone with "a good heart" who "always enters class with a greeting and a smile." "If I had a business and needed to hire a dependable, capable manager/supervisor, someone whom I know would always be on time and do their work well, treating others fairly, Ramon would be my first hire," he adds.
Ramon carries that same care into his community work. Last summer, he volunteered with Service B4 Self, an organization focused on helping U.S. veterans improve their quality of life. Ramon assisted one veteran whose house had fallen into disrepair, helping pluck weeds, throw away trash, rip out water-damaged floorboards, and replace a kitchen sink. "It felt great to accomplish labor alongside other people with a shared mindset," he shares. "Our efforts will make this person's life better. That is a feeling above which none are greater.”
Ramon is a member of his school's Newspaper Club, serves as a Film & TV Production Intern, works as a TUHSD Video Production Assistant, and assists in McClintock's front office as a student worker. He maintains a 3.91 unweighted GPA while balancing his film work, service, and academics with a demanding course load. For Ramon, every person has a story worth telling simply because it is theirs, and that belief shapes how he approaches his craft.
Ramon plans to study film & TV production with a minor in cinematic arts at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, or the University of Southern California. His dream, as he puts it, is "to tell stunning visual stories that have the potential to change audience's lives for the better, as the tales of my time have done for me."
BRONZE - Gabriela Rodriguez Acosta
Major: Psychology with a minor in Film
High School: Taos High School
Hometown: Ranchos de Taos, NM
Gabriela Rodriguez Acosta wants to be a storyteller who helps people feel included. That purpose took shape the night she won Best Film at a True Kids 1 (TK1) competition, a youth media education nonprofit. Her hands were shaking as she accepted the award. All the late nights learning to edit had paid off. But when Gabriela looked into the crowd, her parents were not there. They had stayed home because the event was in English, and Gabriela, not wanting them to feel uncomfortable, had told them it was okay to stay home. Later, she understood: they were not absent because they did not care. They were avoiding a space where they might feel excluded. "Belonging doesn't just happen," Gabriela reflects. "Someone has to make it.”
Gabriela has carried the lesson from that award night into everything she creates. She now adds Spanish captions to her videos, explains her projects at home in ways her parents can follow, and pushed for a Spanish interview in a recent video so they could enjoy it in full. Gabriela's goal is to tell stories that feel real and make people feel seen, the same way filming has made her see her own community differently.
The award, which came with a Sony A6600 camera, marked Gabriela's entry into filmmaking. She had made her first video with almost no experience, entering the competition just to try something new. Winning showed her that media was something she could grow in. Since then, Gabriela has become Student Video Lead for TK1 and serves as a TK1 counselor, teaching younger students how to produce films of their own. Her teachers and principal at Taos High School started asking her to film assemblies, projects, and school events, trusting her with any media project that came up. Gabriela's work filming videos for the Eco Club and Sustainable Living class caught the attention of her school board, which recognized her for a sustainability video in 2025. That same year, her film was selected for Film Prize Junior.
One of Gabriela's favorite shoots was at a local gravel company. She filmed the machines scooping gravel in slow motion, the dust making everything look almost like a movie. "It made me see how hard people in our town work," she shares. "Everyone is just trying to make a living, and I got to show that through my camera." Gabriela likes catching small things: students laughing in the garden or someone working quietly on a project, moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. When filming people, she has learned to read the room. Gabriela notices when someone's hands shake or when their eyes show they are overwhelmed. She knows when to stop the camera and help, and when it is okay to keep recording. "I just try to make sure people feel okay while I am capturing what is happening," she says.
Gabriela is one of the founders and leaders of Taos High School's Eco Club, an organization that has improved her school's sustainability practices and positioned it as a leader in the state. Her teacher and Eco Club sponsor, William Tindell, describes Gabriela as someone who "does not wait for opportunities to come to her" but "actively creates them." She spearheaded initiatives, visited schools like Los Alamos High School to learn from their models, and is now preparing to host the statewide Eco Club Summit. In November 2025, Gabriela presented the club's ongoing work to her school board, a milestone that reflected everything she had been building.
Gabriela's Eco Club work tackles food insecurity in Taos head-on. During a school trash audit, Gabriela and her team sorted through trays and pulled out whole burritos, burgers, and unopened fruit packets. They did not want to just collect data. They wanted to put food back into the system. So they started blending leftover food into feed for pigs and chickens, animals that can eventually provide eggs and meat for families who need it. "It is messy and loud and honestly kind of gross," she admits, "but it works." Gabriela has also helped turn paper and coffee grounds into fire logs for elderly community members who can no longer gather wood. Representing Taos High School at the University of New Mexico's Food Waste and Insecurity event, Gabriela presented alongside college students, holding her own in a room far beyond her grade level. Tindell notes that she learned through these projects that "progress doesn't always come from perfection but from persistence.”
Service in Taos, as Gabriela sees it, does not feel like service. It feels like neighbors helping neighbors, even when they are strangers. Gabriela has weeded gardens for older community members, organized students to help people who cannot paint their own homes, or fix small things. When people see their homes looking better, she says, they get emotional. A kid walking by once told her the campus "looked happier" after her team pulled weeds. Moments like that stay with her.
Gabriela also serves as a counselor at Eños Garcia Camp, where she teaches sustainability to young campers, and as a member of her community's Mental Health Youth Council. In 2025, she was chosen for Rural Opportunities for College Access New Mexico, a selective community-based organization program. Tindell, who has also taught Gabriela in Brain and Behavior, notes her interest in psychology and neuroscience and her desire to understand the brain and improve mental health treatment and awareness.
Gabriela plans to study psychology with a minor in film at the University of Portland, Bryn Mawr College, or Mount Holyoke College. For her, both fields start in the same place: paying attention to people and making sure they feel seen.
High School: Taos High School
Hometown: Ranchos de Taos, NM
Gabriela Rodriguez Acosta wants to be a storyteller who helps people feel included. That purpose took shape the night she won Best Film at a True Kids 1 (TK1) competition, a youth media education nonprofit. Her hands were shaking as she accepted the award. All the late nights learning to edit had paid off. But when Gabriela looked into the crowd, her parents were not there. They had stayed home because the event was in English, and Gabriela, not wanting them to feel uncomfortable, had told them it was okay to stay home. Later, she understood: they were not absent because they did not care. They were avoiding a space where they might feel excluded. "Belonging doesn't just happen," Gabriela reflects. "Someone has to make it.”
Gabriela has carried the lesson from that award night into everything she creates. She now adds Spanish captions to her videos, explains her projects at home in ways her parents can follow, and pushed for a Spanish interview in a recent video so they could enjoy it in full. Gabriela's goal is to tell stories that feel real and make people feel seen, the same way filming has made her see her own community differently.
The award, which came with a Sony A6600 camera, marked Gabriela's entry into filmmaking. She had made her first video with almost no experience, entering the competition just to try something new. Winning showed her that media was something she could grow in. Since then, Gabriela has become Student Video Lead for TK1 and serves as a TK1 counselor, teaching younger students how to produce films of their own. Her teachers and principal at Taos High School started asking her to film assemblies, projects, and school events, trusting her with any media project that came up. Gabriela's work filming videos for the Eco Club and Sustainable Living class caught the attention of her school board, which recognized her for a sustainability video in 2025. That same year, her film was selected for Film Prize Junior.
One of Gabriela's favorite shoots was at a local gravel company. She filmed the machines scooping gravel in slow motion, the dust making everything look almost like a movie. "It made me see how hard people in our town work," she shares. "Everyone is just trying to make a living, and I got to show that through my camera." Gabriela likes catching small things: students laughing in the garden or someone working quietly on a project, moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. When filming people, she has learned to read the room. Gabriela notices when someone's hands shake or when their eyes show they are overwhelmed. She knows when to stop the camera and help, and when it is okay to keep recording. "I just try to make sure people feel okay while I am capturing what is happening," she says.
Gabriela is one of the founders and leaders of Taos High School's Eco Club, an organization that has improved her school's sustainability practices and positioned it as a leader in the state. Her teacher and Eco Club sponsor, William Tindell, describes Gabriela as someone who "does not wait for opportunities to come to her" but "actively creates them." She spearheaded initiatives, visited schools like Los Alamos High School to learn from their models, and is now preparing to host the statewide Eco Club Summit. In November 2025, Gabriela presented the club's ongoing work to her school board, a milestone that reflected everything she had been building.
Gabriela's Eco Club work tackles food insecurity in Taos head-on. During a school trash audit, Gabriela and her team sorted through trays and pulled out whole burritos, burgers, and unopened fruit packets. They did not want to just collect data. They wanted to put food back into the system. So they started blending leftover food into feed for pigs and chickens, animals that can eventually provide eggs and meat for families who need it. "It is messy and loud and honestly kind of gross," she admits, "but it works." Gabriela has also helped turn paper and coffee grounds into fire logs for elderly community members who can no longer gather wood. Representing Taos High School at the University of New Mexico's Food Waste and Insecurity event, Gabriela presented alongside college students, holding her own in a room far beyond her grade level. Tindell notes that she learned through these projects that "progress doesn't always come from perfection but from persistence.”
Service in Taos, as Gabriela sees it, does not feel like service. It feels like neighbors helping neighbors, even when they are strangers. Gabriela has weeded gardens for older community members, organized students to help people who cannot paint their own homes, or fix small things. When people see their homes looking better, she says, they get emotional. A kid walking by once told her the campus "looked happier" after her team pulled weeds. Moments like that stay with her.
Gabriela also serves as a counselor at Eños Garcia Camp, where she teaches sustainability to young campers, and as a member of her community's Mental Health Youth Council. In 2025, she was chosen for Rural Opportunities for College Access New Mexico, a selective community-based organization program. Tindell, who has also taught Gabriela in Brain and Behavior, notes her interest in psychology and neuroscience and her desire to understand the brain and improve mental health treatment and awareness.
Gabriela plans to study psychology with a minor in film at the University of Portland, Bryn Mawr College, or Mount Holyoke College. For her, both fields start in the same place: paying attention to people and making sure they feel seen.