Lesli Luna is a junior at Arizona State University studying psychology. Inspired by her mom to speak up, she now uses her voice to advocate for herself and others who feel unheard.

Nikolas Gonzalez is a freshman at Arizona State University studying Construction Management and Technology. Coming from a family of immigrants, he learned the value of hard work and compassion early on—experiences that shaped his commitment to civic engagement through Aliento’s fellowship.

Arianna Gortarez is a proud first-generation Mexican-American and a senior at Mountain Pointe High School. Arianna carries the resilience and strength of her grandparents and mother, who immigrated to the United States in pursuit of a better future — a journey that continues to shape her identity and aspirations.

Citlali Fontes, a senior at Mesa High School, shares how being from a mixed-status family shapes her leadership as a student-athlete, Aliento Club president, and first-generation college-bound student.

Graciela Amavisca, a sophomore at Estrella Mountain Community College, shares how her family’s experiences and community stories inspired her to get educated and take action to create change in Arizona.

Through Aliento’s fellowship, I felt a sense of belonging and support. I was given the opportunity to grow as a leader with the tools and guidance provided by Aliento, which enabled me to advocate for and expand awareness about the immigrant community.

Emily Salgado, a senior at Bioscience High School, reflects on the powerful realization that young people like her are the future of this country.

Fatima Lopez Gutierrez is a first-generation student currently studying Family & Human Development & Transborder Chicana/o and Latina/o Studies at Arizona State University.

Hector is finishing his BA in Digital Film. His journey in advocacy and storytelling is far from over and he hopes to keep using his skills in film and photography to uplift communities and amplify unheard voices.

Reese Estrada is currently attending Phoenix College and is studying vocal performance.

Emily Sotelo Estrada recently completed her junior year at Arizona State University, where she is double majoring in Economics and Justice Studies, with a minor in Classics.

Naioby recently graduated from ASU Preparatory. This fall, she’s headed to Grand Canyon University to pursue engineering.

Joaquin recently graduated from Camelback High School. During his time there, he played baseball and served as Student Body Secretary and Treasurer as part of the Student Government.

‭For many, teenagehood is a time of uncertainty, self-discovery, and restless dreams—but that‬‭ instability is expected, even celebrated. For me, it mirrored a deeper, more unsettling reality.‬

Oselem recently graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences.

Giselle is a recent graduate of Mesa High School, where she was an active member of the Aliento @ Mesa club, as well as Link Crew, DECA, FBLA, and STEP.

My name is José Luis Avila III, and I recently graudated from Brophy College Preparatory. My passion for advocacy is deeply rooted in empathy for those around me and my family’s history of Latino activism in Arizona, stretching back to the Chicano Movement of the 1960s.

Hi, my name is Renata Herrera Marquez. I am a proud daughter of Mexican immigrants and am roughly one minute younger than my twin sister/best friend, Regina Herrera Marquez.

My name is Fatima Villalpa, and I’m a senior at NFL Yet College Prep. I’m passionate about learning, growth, and giving back to my community.

Victor Mendez is a rising senior at Brophy College Preparatory, where he continues to grow as a student leader.