yli is My Story

When decision-makers confront issues that directly affect young people, it is only right for youth voices to be heard.

Change is happening, whether you’re ready or not…Elections are coming up and everyone has the power to elect officials that represent their beliefs and needs. Voting gives people the power to control how their nation is run.

Meet Loughlin Browne, Calafia Fellow 2020! “Society often forces a narrative on gay youth and having a queer parent,” says Loughlin. “At first I wanted to avoid being at the forefront of that stereotype, but now I unapologetically embrace it.”

Meet Rosa Gonzalez, Calafia Fellow 2020! When Rosa Gonzalez speaks up, she is not just another voice caught in the wind…she has always found solace in making a change, but never sitting still. 

Meet Rachel Livinal, Calafia Fellow 2020! “I believe many voices are underrepresented and should be uplifted,” says Rachel. Through her writing and podcasts, she brings awareness to issues surrounding social equality by bringing all sides of the story together.

Meet Elina Ayon, Calafia Fellow 2020! Elina feels that if people saw their true intentions, then people wouldn’t see Mexicans as dangerous and that they take what is “ours.” She sees herself changing this problem by participating in more movements to show Mexicans’ true intentions and values. 

Meet Chantera Walton, Calafia Fellow 2020! Chantera wants to highlight the stories of Black lives and authentic stories about Black people so that they remove negative biases, stereotypes and prejudice when you hear the word “Black.” “We are not looking for acceptance from anyone, we just demand justice and equity to create a better future,” she says.

Meet Alvin Engo, Calafia Fellow 2020! Growing up with his strict impoverished family in Southeast Asia, Alvin didn’t really have the freedom to make his own choices. He grew up in a very restrictive, religious and stratified society, with his family coming from military and policing backgrounds, having to endure a decade worth of poverty and class struggle.