From a young age, I have been passionate about advocacy, leadership, and justice. These passions have shaped my academic and professional goals, leading me toward a future in law and public service. I aspire to become a criminal defense attorney, advocating for underrepresented Black and Brown youth who are disproportionately affected by systemic inequities. This goal is not just a career aspiration; it is a calling rooted in my lived experiences and my deep commitment to social change. Academically, I am dedicated to excelling in my studies to prepare for a career in law. My experience in my Street Law class and in debate has affirmed my desire to work within the legal system to fight for justice. Beyond academics, my leadership roles—such as serving as Youth Mayor of Washington, D.C.—have given me firsthand experience in policymaking and civic engagement. These opportunities have helped me develop critical skills in negotiation, public speaking, and legislative advocacy, all of which will serve me well in my legal career. Giving back to my community has always been central to my identity. Whether through leadership, poetry, or activism, I have worked to uplift the voices of those who are often unheard. As Youth Mayor, I have advocated for policies that benefit young people in D.C., ensuring that their concerns are represented in local government. I have also used my platform as a poet to shed light on pressing social issues, such as gun violence and systemic injustice. My poem *Oh DC*, which addresses the realities of violence in my city, was performed at a public event renaming Good Hope Road to Marion Barry Avenue. Through spoken word, I strive to inspire action and bring awareness to the struggles facing my community. Beyond advocacy, I have volunteered my time to mentor younger students and participate in community service initiatives. Whether organizing youth-led events, engaging in discussions on criminal justice reform, or working with grassroots organizations, I have always sought to use my skills and leadership to serve others. These experiences have not only allowed me to give back but have also deepened my understanding of the systemic challenges my community faces, further motivating me to pursue a career dedicated to justice. The work I have done in my community has inspired me to make a lasting impact in the world. Seeing firsthand the effects of racial and economic disparities has reinforced my commitment to fighting for a more just legal system. Too often, young people—especially those from marginalized backgrounds—are treated unfairly by the criminal justice system. I want to change that by providing legal defense, advocating for policy reforms, and ensuring that every person, regardless of background, receives fair treatment under the law. Ultimately, my academic and professional goals are deeply intertwined with my passion for social justice. I see my future not just as a career but as a mission to uplift, defend, and empower those who need it most. By continuing to give back to my community, I am constantly reminded of the importance of advocacy and the power of using my voice to make a difference. Whether through law, leadership, or activism, I am determined to create meaningful change in the world.

As I navigate my journey as a student, youth leader, and advocate, I perceive myself as a positive force in society through my commitment to social justice, civic engagement, and empowering underrepresented communities. My experiences as the Youth Mayor of Washington, D.C., a poet shedding light on societal issues, and an aspiring criminal defense attorney all reflect my dedication to creating meaningful change. The parameters of current social norms—especially those surrounding race, equity, and systemic reform—have profoundly shaped my perspective and fueled my desire to challenge injustice both now and in the future. Currently, I use my platform to amplify the voices of young people and marginalized communities. In my role as Youth Mayor, I advocate for policies that directly impact youth, particularly Black and Brown youth who face systemic barriers in education, employment, and the criminal justice system. Leadership in this space has shown me that young people have the power to enact real change, even in a world where traditional power structures often dismiss our voices. Additionally, my poetry serves as both an artistic and activist tool, addressing critical issues such as gun violence and inequality. Through spoken word, I not only express my lived experiences but also foster dialogue and inspire others to take action. Looking ahead, I envision my role as a positive force expanding into the legal field. My aspiration to become a criminal defense attorney is rooted in a deep understanding of the injustices embedded within the legal system. I want to be a fierce advocate for those who have been silenced, ensuring that every person—regardless of race or socioeconomic status—receives fair representation. Mass incarceration, racial profiling, and the school-to-prison pipeline are issues that disproportionately affect Black and Brown communities, and I intend to challenge these systemic injustices by providing legal defense, advocating for policy changes, and working toward a more just society. Social norms and societal expectations have shaped my approach to activism and leadership. The historical and ongoing struggles of marginalized communities in America have influenced my belief that resistance and advocacy are not just choices but responsibilities. The normalization of systemic inequality, particularly in criminal justice and education, has pushed me to question these norms rather than accept them. Furthermore, the increasing recognition of youth activism in recent years has encouraged me to step into leadership roles with confidence, knowing that age does not limit one’s ability to effect change. Despite the barriers that exist, I remain hopeful about the future. Social norms are not static—they evolve based on collective action and advocacy. I see myself contributing to this evolution by challenging outdated norms and creating new expectations for justice, equity, and youth empowerment. Whether through law, public policy, or continued creative expression, I will persist in my mission to uplift and defend those who need it most. In conclusion, I perceive myself as a positive force in society by using my voice, leadership, and future career to dismantle systemic oppression and advocate for equity. The parameters of current social norms serve as both obstacles and motivators, shaping my understanding of justice and reinforcing my commitment to being an agent of change. I am determined to leave a lasting impact—both now and in the future—by fighting for a world where fairness, dignity, and opportunity are accessible to all.

I am a member of the Marion Barry Youth Leadership Institute. This institute has helped me become a better leader and see the world in a new way. It takes place in the summer and during the school year for a selected few. This internship is more than just a title – it has transformed me into a proactive leader, a confident public speaker, and a passionate advocate for my community. I have been in this program for 3 years and each year has been significant in my growth as a person and leader. One of the biggest moments for me was being elected Youth Mayor of D.C in the summer of 2024. Through MBYLI's Youth Government program, I learned how government and policy work, which led me to take on this role. As Youth Mayor, I've spoken at events, networked with important policy makers in my city, and represented my peers on important issues. I’ve worked to amplify the voices of young people and bring about positive change in my community. I am also a member of DC's Student Advisory Committee which gives me the opportunity to work with some of the best youth in the city to make important decisions about bills that are in the progress of being passed. As someone dedicated to serving my community, I find any opportunity where I can speak to the people of DC or help the youth. I’ve always looked for opportunities to put myself in challenging environments where I can grow personally and contribute something meaningful. As a passionate learner and someone who aspires to attend law school to make a difference, financial aid will play a crucial role in determining the college or university I will attend. The cost of higher education can be daunting, and without financial assistance, pursuing my academic and professional goals will be extremely challenging. Financial aid will alleviate the financial burden associated with tuition, fees, and living expenses, enabling me to focus on my studies and extracurricular activities. It will provide me with the opportunity to attend a college or university that aligns with my academic interests and aspirations, regardless of its cost. I need a lot of financial aid. Whether it's money directly from the institution or scholarship money from outside organizations, I need financial aid. I work hard to keep children and youth in my community safe, both in person and online, by speaking out against bullying and raising awareness about its impact. As Youth Mayor of Washington, D.C., I push for stronger anti-bullying programs in schools because I know how much a safe learning environment matters. I also use my platform to educate young people about cyberbullying, helping them understand the power of their words and how to protect themselves online. In my community, I support mentorship programs that give kids a space to open up, feel heard, and get the guidance they need. I encourage young people to stand up for each other, showing them that even small actions—like speaking up or checking in on a friend—can make a difference. I also work with local leaders to expand access to mental health resources so that those affected by bullying don’t have to struggle alone. More than anything, I try to lead by example—showing kindness, respect, and inclusivity in every space I enter.

An individual that I really admire is Shirley Chisholm. Shirley Chisholm was an amazing woman who was never afraid to go out and do what needed to be done. She is a very admirable person because of her groundbreaking courage as the first African American woman elected to Congress and her unwavering commitment to social justice and equality throughout her career. Ms. Chisholm ran for president, the first African American woman to do so, because she wasn’t afraid to be the change that the people needed. She ran during a time where women, especially black women, weren’t looked at as deserving of having a government job let alone running for president but she did anyway. Shirley Chisholm's amazing spirit and dedication to equality has left an indelible mark on American history. She broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations. Because of her, people like Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris were able to run for political positions and in Kamala Harris’ case, become the first African American woman to be elected vice president. Because of her Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first black female supreme court judge. Her fearless advocacy for marginalized communities, including women, people of color, and the poor, resonates deeply. Chisholm's boldness in challenging the status quo, both within Congress and during her historic presidential campaign, inspires me. She embodied resilience, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to justice, making her a true pioneer and an enduring symbol of hope. She inspires me to go into law and fight against oppression and injustice. After graduating college, I want to go to law school and become a criminal defense attorney. I want to challenge the status quo just as she did. I want to focus primarily on representing the black and brown people who are disproportionally affected by our unjust justice system and to fight for those who were wrongly convicted of crimes that they did not commit. I want to make a commitment to fight for what's right. Shirley Chisholm was an incredible woman who defied the rules of politics. Whenever she reached a new level, she was already working toward the next one and she didn’t accept things as they were if she knew they weren’t right. She always stood up for what was right and what she believed in, no matter the odds. Ms. Shirley never changed her course of action and her promise to the people. She was the definition of a trailblazer who paved the way for so many more women who look like her and me to enter politics and thrive. She was indeed “Unbought and Unbossed”.