I like that Iām able to show people that there are different types of women. I play different kinds of roles – Iām a business owner, I like to dress up, Iām an activist and I love playing soccer, but Iām one person. I am Mexican, I wasnāt born here. Iām dark-skinned. I am a woman. Iām low-income. Iām breaking down prejudices on different sides, acting as a bridge between communities.
On Thursday, February 27th, three yli youth leaders were recognized for their powerful leadership potential by the San Francisco Foundation’s Koshland Program. Over the next year, the multi-generational cohort of fellows will meet monthly for trainings, workshops, and field trips with the objective ofĀ crafting a project that they will implement in the following year.
“Iām off to fight again at City Hall!ā Collin Lee yelled to his mom as he rushed out the door. He and two other youth leaders have been organizing for years to reduce underage drinking in Fresno, “the Drunkest City in America.”
For me to open up, I had to listen to someone else open up first. I had to know that they could carry the weight of what was going on in my heart.
Hair has always been important to me. It’s how I express myself. Whether or not my hair is done can affect my attitude or how I approach certain situations. And if my hair is not done it can also be detrimental to my confidence.Ā
I want to change the narrative of what people think of me, so I wanted to tell a story about my life. I want to bring awareness to the southwest side of the city and to let people know that this community isnāt lazy and violent. Weāre hopeful, weāre striving to live our lives, to have families, to settle down. Weāre good people but because of whatās happening around us, itās really challenging.
It’s that time of year! Make sure to add fresh yli gear to your list!
Pick one up for yourself and donāt forget one for a dope youth leader in your life. Knowing that all proceeds go to making sure that young people have a voice just makes each purchase that much sweeter. Click the link for options – from Stranger Things to Classic Tees – but make sure to get yours before they’re gone!
When I had a chance to reevaluate what I really wanted to do with my life, I realized that it was not just about money, but about doing something you love every day.
