T H E I NSPI RERS T HE NE X T G E N E RAT I O N By Sara Hall
If the children are our future, then we’re in good hands. Covering the next few pages are just a few examples of why this is true. They are local teens who inspire, amaze, and excel in one way or another. The generation that’s coming of age right now includes students who are passionate about education, invested in their communities, and have overcome hardships and personal challenges. They want to help others, push harder for change and improvement, and then pass that on to those who come after. All six of the young adults featured are unique in their own way. As individuals, they impress. As a group – as a generation – they provide hope.
Ray Diaz, Leading the Way in Public Service grade at El Sol Science and Arts Academy. He was a bit shy until he spoke for the first time in front of a crowd at science camp. It sparked something in him. He wanted to do more, so a teacher encouraged him to run for sixth grade student representative. Diaz dove in and ran a passionate campaign. He made posters and pencils with his name on them. He advocated for healthier student lunches and a different menu. The day came and it was announced that he won. “That’s how it all started,” he said. He may not be old enough to vote, but Ray Diaz, 17, of Santa Ana, knows what it takes to hit the campaign trail and be a meaningful public servant. From sixth grade representative to working as an intern for a state assembly campaign while still in high school, Diaz has learned it through experience. “(It’s about the) human interaction and really being genuine,” said Diaz, now a senior at Samueli Academy and ASB president, during a recent phone interview. “(Discussing the) issues that you truly believe will improve the community.” Diaz’s political journey started when he was in sixth
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Photos courtesy of Ray Diaz
At meetings, he was outspoken about issues. He championed school activities, brought up ideas from his classmates, and he followed through on his campaign promise and implemented a variety of lunches. “More importantly, it was about being a voice for the student body,” Diaz said. “When I first started running it was to represent that little guy.” He continued running – and getting elected – every year for student government. Although his political experience has also gone off campus. For his junior year internship, a graduation requirement at Samueli Academy, Diaz looked into
