I want to touch on some of the many leadership roles I have experienced in my lifetime, including: 4-H, Cheerleading, Breaking Down the Walls, and Pledge to Humanity.
From August 2018 to May 2020, I served as the Education Officer for Pledge to Humanity in Danville, CA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering younger generations to volunteer in efforts that enhance the quality of life for children, families, and seniors through both local and global initiatives. In my role as Education Officer, I was responsible for informing potential new members about the organization’s mission and the various volunteer opportunities available. I also kept current members updated on upcoming events and initiatives, ensuring they were well-prepared and informed for their volunteer work. This experience strengthened my communication skills and deepened my commitment to community service.
In October 2019, I was selected as a Group Leader for the Breaking Down the Walls program at Monte Vista High School in Danville, CA. This program is designed to unify, empower, and engage students to foster a positive and supportive campus culture. As a Group Leader, I played an integral role during training and workshop days, guiding students in developing advanced social skills and fostering open, supportive dialogue. My responsibilities also included helping to lead activities that promoted inclusivity and strengthened community bonds among students. This experience enhanced my leadership abilities, communication skills, and understanding of group dynamics.
Being a cheerleader at Monte Vista High School was a transformative experience that significantly developed my social, leadership, and teamwork skills. Cheerleading consists of constant engagement with teammates, coaches, and a crowd, which helped me build confidence and comfort in social situations. Working collaboratively with my teammates not only emphasized the importance of teamwork and leadership but also taught me how to work with others effectively toward a common goal. The experience made me confident in front of crowds, as I learned to connect with others through shared energy and enthusiasm. This ability has made public speaking and networking much more natural for me today. These social and emotional skills have translated into my professional life, where I am comfortable taking on leadership roles, interacting with diverse groups, and handling the dynamics of team-based projects. This foundation of teamwork and communication continues to shape the way I approach leadership, both in personal and professional settings.
Growing up, my first experience with a community-service-based organization was through 4-H, (Head, Heart, Hands, and Health.) I joined two clubs within this group: Photography and Cake Decorating. Participating in these clubs at a young age began my appreciation for aesthetics and detail, and sparked my love for creative direction. 4-H also introduced me to community service in a hands-on way, shaping my desire to help others and giving me a foundation for service work that I still carry with me. This experience was more than just club participation—it helped build skills and values that influence my approach to creativity and community involvement today.
