FLIK Hospitality Group’s Entrepreneurial Council Scholarship

Global Financial Inclusion: A Path to Sustainable Communities “How many of you have access to financial resources?” It’s a question we rarely think about—especially when the answer for many of us is “yes.” But access to financial services is still out of reach for millions of people around the world. We often take it for granted, yet it's a key factor that determines whether individuals and communities can grow, invest, and thrive. Financial inclusion means that individuals and businesses have access to useful and affordable financial products and services that meet their needs—transactions, payments, savings, credit, and insurance—delivered in a responsible and sustainable way. Without these tools, people are limited in how they manage money, grow their businesses, or plan for the future. It restricts economic development and limits opportunities for better living standards. One country where this is still a major issue is Mexico, my hometown. Despite being one of Latin America’s largest economies, nearly half the population is still unbanked. A combination of low financial literacy, poverty, limited access to credit, and a deep mistrust of banks has prevented large portions of the population from using basic financial services. This makes it difficult for people to invest in healthcare, education, or housing—all of which are essential for personal and societal development. But improving financial inclusion doesn’t just lift people out of poverty—it creates ripple effects. Greater access to credit can help small business owners fund eco-conscious ventures or invest in cleaner technologies. Financial literacy can help individuals make better decisions, including those that positively impact the environment. In that way, financial inclusion becomes a tool for both economic and environmental change. Over the next five years, I want to be part of that change. My goal is to work in the fields of fintech, investment banking, or corporate finance to promote innovative financial solutions—especially in underserved regions. I hope to contribute to platforms that make banking more accessible through mobile technology and digital tools. By doing so, I can help bridge the financial gap in my local community and across global markets. Mexico has already started to move in this direction, with programs like “Aprende y Crece” by Banco Azteca and the rise of fintech companies offering mobile-based banking. But more needs to be done. I believe collaboration with other countries—like Brazil and Kenya, which have made impressive efforts in financial inclusion—can help Mexico adopt more effective strategies. Knowledge-sharing and cross-border innovation are key to creating financial systems that are fair, inclusive, and sustainable. This scholarship would support my academic journey and help me build the knowledge and skills to create lasting impact. Financial inclusion opens doors—not just for individuals and businesses, but for entire economies. If we can ensure that everyone, regardless of income or geography, has access to the tools they need to succeed, we’re not simply addressing a financial challenge—we’re laying the groundwork for a more just and sustainable world.

February of 2020 may have been the last period many enjoyed before communities implemented COVID-19 shutdowns, but there was very little for me to enjoy that month. On February 12, 2020, I received some of the most heartbreaking news of my life as my mother sat me down and explained that my father had been incarcerated. This was devastating news that I had significant challenges coping with because I always had a very close relationship with my father. This information coupled with the isolation I felt due to the shutdowns that began the following month caused me to fall into a deep depression. Having the motivation to complete everyday tasks became difficult for me, and some of my biggest hobbies such as playing the guitar suddenly ceased to bring me the joy that I once felt. I developed a negative outlook on life in general, as the betrayal I felt caused me to become very cynical and mistrustful of others. As insurmountable as these struggles felt at the time, eventually I realized that I had to make some changes to my thought process and actions. Feeling sorry for myself had gotten me nowhere, and was clearly no longer an option. I could not, and will not ever be able to control the actions of my father or anyone else for that matter, but I was in complete control of myself and how I chose to respond to the negativity in my life. Instead of focusing so much of my energy on myself and the challenges I was facing, I soon began to understand the importance of channeling that energy toward helping others. As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, I take pride in my house-to-house ministry where I study the Bible with all who are interested. During this time, however, our house-to-house ministry was suspended because of the pandemic. Nevertheless, I was determined to reach out to others as I participated in our letter writing and phone call campaign. I would spend up to thirty hours a month writing letters and calling people in our community to offer them an encouraging thought from the Bible despite the difficult times people were facing worldwide. Perspective and perseverance were two key words that I tried to reflect on during this period in my life. It was important for me to have the right perspective about the challenges I was facing because, through my ministry, I spoke with people who were struggling with so much more than I was. Many had lost their jobs, became seriously ill, or lost several loved ones in death. I was not experiencing any of these things at the time, so reflecting on them helped me to think outside of myself and focus more on how I could assist others. Additionally, I reflected on the importance of perseverance, because while I understood that many were facing more challenges than me, this did not invalidate my struggles emotionally and how critical it was for me to plow ahead and figure out how to manage them healthily. To this day, I continue to balance these two abilities, which have made me a more well-rounded person and better equipped to face any challenges that come my way.

Over the next five years, I will create a positive environmental impact on my local and global communities through the lens of wellness, with a specific focus on nutrition. As someone studying nutrition, I believe deeply in the power of food not just to heal our bodies, but to transform our communities and protect our planet. What we eat impacts everything from personal health to agricultural systems, carbon emissions, and global food equity. Through education, outreach, and advocacy, I want to help individuals make better food choices that lead to healthier lives and a healthier environment. My passion for nutrition is not only rooted in science but also in culture and identity. As the daughter of Venezuelan parents, I’ve grown up witnessing both the joy and the struggle that food can bring. In Venezuela, food insecurity and lack of access to basic nutrition have become widespread issues due to economic and political instability. This has given me a global perspective on how critical access to nutritious food is not just as a wellness issue but as a human right. It has also made me deeply aware of the disparities that exist in food systems and how culture must be considered when addressing wellness on a community level. In my local community, I plan to combine my academic background in nutrition with my cultural heritage to promote food education that is inclusive and relatable. I want to create programs that teach people how to incorporate healthy, plant-based alternatives into traditional meals like using legumes, grains, and vegetables in familiar Latin recipes. This approach allows people to make sustainable dietary changes without sacrificing cultural identity. I’ll also work with schools, community centers, and health clinics to promote nutrition literacy, particularly in underserved or immigrant communities where health education and access to fresh foods are often lacking. To make an even greater impact, I aim to partner with local farmers and food co-ops to bring more culturally relevant produce to markets and food pantries. Promoting local agriculture not only supports the environment but also empowers small growers, many of whom are immigrants themselves. My goal is to show how healthy, sustainable eating can be both affordable and culturally rich bridging the gap between wellness and tradition. On a global level, I’ll use technology and social media to share insights and resources about sustainable nutrition. I want to be a voice that educates and empowers people everywhere especially in Latin American and marginalized communities by providing practical tips and science-based guidance in both English and Spanish. Whether it’s through recipes, educational videos, or online workshops, I’ll promote wellness practices that are good for both people and the planet. In five years, I hope to be at the forefront of a movement that sees food as medicine, culture as strength, and nutrition as a path to environmental change. Being Venezuelan means I carry with me a deep respect for resilience, community, and creativity values that will guide my efforts to make a lasting difference through the power of nutrition.

In the next five years I would like to create a positive impact in communities through culinary innovation. In order to achieve this I intend to become a Food Scientist or Food Product Researcher to help develop ways to make more foods healthier and cheaper for people to consume, as well as educate them about the foods they put into their bodies. In today’s society, it is evident that millions of people around the world don’t have much, if any access, to actual healthy nutrient-filled foods to feed themselves or their families. In stores everywhere, you can see different versions of the same food being produced and sold, none any healthier than the one before it. Or, if there are healthier food options available, usually they are more expensive to buy and might not be as appealing in taste and/or texture. This is a serious problem with the rate of obesity and other health concerns being as high as they are today in the US since a majority of the population usually consumes whatever is the most accessible. Therefore, I will work as a Food Scientist to improve as many of the foods produced now and make them more accessible to families who need them so that more people around the country will have greater health. Furthermore, I intend on working to produce new food products that are safer to eat without causing health problems to replace foods being produced now. I also plan to create a pastry business that is geared towards improving and creating healthier versions of desserts served now. I know currently that there are many healthy alternatives to the desserts available now, but there is still room for improvements to be made. For example, when it comes to vegan dessert options available as healthier alternatives, some of them aren’t appetizing texture wise to eat and are a lot more expensive than the normal versions. As many of the desserts use substitute ingredients that are more expensive and have a different texture than the original ingredients which can mess with the consistency of some desserts as well as be harder to make correctly. Not only this, but also there are not many restaurants that serve vegan options on their dessert menu, so I want to create this pastry business to give people more access to healthier desserts. Furthermore, I plan on working to create new desserts by experimenting with different foods to see what textures go well with each other that also taste good and are healthier. As well as finding different ingredients to substitute the ones today that can be harmful if consumed in large amounts like butter and sugar. As both of these ingredients contribute to a rise in blood pressure and cholesterol which can turn into serious cases of heart disease or diabetes, as these are big health problems for people around the world especially in the US today. I believe that finding healthy substitutes will not only benefit the culinary world but also everyone as a whole with having access to healthier foods which can be provided for people who need them in the community.

Am I even Korean? I could see my Grandpa’s veins bulge on his temples and spit gather at the edges of his lips. My Mom and my Grandpa’s conversation turned into an argument about the fact that my sister and I could barely speak Korean. Diluted by American culture, I was not the ideal Korean grandson he had envisioned. Regret and guilt consumed my head and heart. I knew I should have kept my Duolingo streak. After this conversation, I began to ask myself, what makes me Korean? Did my rough Korean pronunciation and inability to understand my Grandma’s questions diminish my Korean identity? Does my involvement as the National Chinese Honors Society President work against my own heritage? I do not think so. My Korean heritage embodies and represents the values on which I choose to model my life. In 1978, my grandparents left their homes, reputation, and family for a country seven thousand miles away and a language just as foreign. They possessed the courage to jump into unfamiliarity for the future of their children and grandchildren (my parents and me). The same values led my parents to the inner city of Washington, D.C., an area with almost no Asians, let alone Koreans, starting a non-profit ministry for underprivileged, majority African-American students living in public housing. As a Korean-American, there is an expectation to be timid or unnoticeable, but the actions of my grandparents and parents showed me it is possible to dream big and create a community with people regardless of background or physical appearance. Standing out as the sole Korean-American in the room became a symbol of courage and connection, not a point of insecurity. This spirit gave me the voice to advocate for education equity, speaking in front of over 3,000 people at the National Public Charter Schools Conference in D.C. I felt comfortable shouting “NO Justice, NO Peace!” marching down Capitol Hill, engulfed by a culturally rich stream of impassioned BLM protesters. My Korean identity - no longer a limitation but a reflection of determination and ambition. I am not only the classmate who helps others with calculus homework but also the classmate who plays the gay pool boy in my school’s production of Legally Blonde. Despite my smaller stature, I have the confidence to compete against grown men, playing point guard at my local gym every Saturday morning. I found the inspiration to create a tennis class for students in my parent’s ministry over the summer, believing I could engage and instruct excited, energetic kids in the stifling D.C. humidity. Although I feel proud of my accomplishments in high school, I know college will only expand my opportunities to become a trailblazer for meaningful change while joining and embracing vibrant communities. Learning Korean remains a bucket list item of mine, always a summer project that never gets done. I recognize the power of language, and, one day, I will take the time to learn it. But, while I may know less Korean than your average white female BTS fan, I realized my Korean identity is not rooted in the language. It is rooted in a sense of tenacious individuality that seeps into diverse communities, birthed from the audacity to dream big. Also, with a degree in public law I can become a public defense attorney for lower income communities. Growing up in a lower-income community has shown me the injustices that have occurred and how some people are powerless against the legal system. I would like to help and become a pillar of support and defense for these people.

Ava Evans Scholarship essay 07/3/24 I would like to make an impact on our current world through culinary innovation. My entire life I was raised as a vegetarian, so it has always been hard for me to find food in restaurants. I would end up eating the same thing and never really get to explore certain foods.My mothers cooking was the only time I got to feel freedom in different options . I always had to ask if my food could be cooked separately. Even with my family, the cultural differences in African American cooking are very meat-centered. Even when my family would say a dish didn’t have meat, I would have to make sure there was no chicken broth or anything else. Growing up, I was mocked by both the world and my family for my mother’s and my dietary choices. It was terrible. My plan for culinary school is to attend Johnson and Wales University to improve my cooking skills and expand my knowledge of vegetarian cooking. I want to create options for kids like me—kids who don’t want tofu when everyone else is having chicken nuggets. I want them to have choices and be able to eat whatever they want. I also care about adults venturing into the lifestyle. They often don’t venture into a plant-based lifestyle because they don’t know it can be fulfilling and nutritious. I want to show them that vegetarian food can be just as satisfying and delicious as any other kind of cuisine. I am passionate about creating meals that cater to different dietary needs while still being delicious and accessible to everyone. Vegetarianism for me doesn’t exclude my cultural heritage. I have learned how to adapt my family’s traditional dishes into vegetarian versions, finding creative ways to retain their flavors and essence. I love to transfer soul food recipes in a way that I can enjoy them. At Johnson and Wales, I hope to gain a education in culinary arts and food and beverage management. This education will provide me with the skills and knowledge necessary to innovate in the kitchen and create new and exciting vegetarian dishes. I am eager to learn about different cuisines, techniques, and ingredients that I can incorporate into my cooking. I believe that with the right training, I can make a significant impact in the culinary world. My goal is to open a restaurant that offers a wide range of vegetarian options, from comfort food to gourmet dishes. I also hope to educate others about the benefits of a plant-based diet and show them that vegetarian food can be both healthy and delicious.That it isn’t just tofu and beans and it can be filling and tasty.The majority of meats don’t have any flavorings it’s the seasonings that make people eat them and the same can be said about vegetarian food. In conclusion, my experiences growing up as a vegetarian, along with my passion for culinary arts and preserving cultural heritage, have inspired me to pursue a career in the culinary industry. I want to create innovative and delicious vegetarian dishes that cater to a variety of dietary needs while celebrating cultural diversity. By attending Johnson and Wales University, I will gain the skills to become my own boss and follow my dreams.

If I were given the authority to positively change my community, several specific changes come to mind that would encourage a lasting and meaningful impact on its well-being and can be done by looking at three things: how people feel, how the environment is, and how money works. It says that if we focus on all three together, communities can become stronger and last longer. The thesis explains that by giving people access to mental health services, helping the environment, and giving people more chances to learn and work, we can make communities better. It also says that it's important for everyone in the community to work together to make sure these things happen. First, I would focus on improving access to mental health services. This includes increasing the number of mental health professionals available, providing more affordable or free services, and destigmatizing mental health to encourage more people to seek help when needed. As an aspiring Army Clinical Psychologist, I understand the importance of mental health in overall well-being, and I believe that by addressing mental health needs, we can create a healthier and more resilient community. To address mental health, it is essential to increase the number of mental health professionals available, particularly in underserved areas. This can be achieved through targeted recruitment efforts and incentives for professionals to work in these communities. Providing more affordable or free mental health services can help reduce barriers to access. This can encourage more people to seek help when needed, support groups can help raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues. Secondly, I would work to improve educational opportunities for all residents. This would involve increasing funding for schools in underserved areas, providing access to quality early childhood education, and offering more vocational training programs for those who may not choose a traditional academic path. By investing in education, we can help individuals reach their full potential and break the cycle of poverty. Education is a powerful tool for social and economic mobility, but many communities struggle to provide quality education for all residents. Increasing funding for schools in underserved areas is a crucial step towards improving educational opportunities. For those who may not choose a traditional academic path, offering vocational training programs can provide valuable skills and opportunities for employment. By investing in education, communities can help individuals reach their full potential and break the cycle of poverty. Then I would prioritize environmental sustainability initiatives. This includes implementing recycling programs, promoting renewable energy sources, and creating green spaces within the community. By taking steps to protect the environment, we can improve the health and well-being of current and future generations. Environmental sustainability is essential for the health and well-being of current and future generations. Educating residents about the importance of sustainability and providing incentives for environmentally friendly practices can help foster a culture of environmental stewardship within the community. By taking steps to protect the environment, communities can improve the quality of life for residents and contribute to a healthier planet. Last, I would focus on improving access to affordable housing. This could involve implementing rent control measures, providing subsidies for low-income families, and investing in affordable housing developments. By ensuring that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing, we can create a more equitable community for all residents. By focusing on mental health, education, environmental sustainability, and affordable housing, I believe that we can positively impact the lives of individuals in our community and create a more inclusive and thriving society.

Jada Betts FLK Scholarship Essay In envisioning Ambrosia, my dream restaurant establishment, I am committed to not only creating a culinary haven but also to making a significant positive environmental impact on both local and global communities. Through a strategic approach focused on culinary innovation and sustainability, Ambrosia will serve as a beacon of responsible business practices and environmental stewardship over the next five years. First let's tackle culinary innovation; Ambrosia will champion a farm-to-table philosophy, forging direct partnerships with local farmers and producers to source the freshest ingredients. By prioritizing locally grown and organic produce, we will minimize our carbon footprint associated with transportation and support local economies. Seasonal menus will highlight the diversity of regional agriculture, promoting biodiversity and reducing reliance on monoculture farming practices detrimental to ecosystems. Furthermore, Ambrosia will incorporate plant-forward cooking techniques, offering a range of innovative vegetarian and vegan dishes. By reducing the reliance on animal products, we aim to lower greenhouse gas emissions and contribute positively to global efforts in combating climate change. Our chefs will creatively showcase the flavors and textures of plant-based ingredients, inspiring guests to embrace sustainable dietary choices. In terms of technology, Investing in energy-efficient kitchen equipment and implementing waste-reducing technologies will be integral to Ambrosia's operations. From energy-efficient refrigeration systems to smart lighting solutions, we will minimize energy consumption and operational costs. Additionally, advanced waste management systems, including composting and recycling programs, will be in place to divert food waste from landfills and promote circular economy principles within our community. Now with hospitality and marketing, Ambrosia will not only provide exceptional dining experiences but also educate guests on sustainable practices. Through engaging marketing campaigns and on-site educational initiatives, such as chef-led cooking classes and farm tours, we will raise awareness about the environmental impact of food choices. By fostering a culture of sustainability and mindfulness, Ambrosia aims to empower guests to make informed decisions that contribute positively to the environment. Next, with Financial sustainability, it is crucial to long-term environmental impact. Ambrosia will allocate resources towards sustainability initiatives, such as investing in renewable energy sources and participating in carbon offset programs. By integrating environmental considerations into financial planning, we aim to demonstrate that profitability and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. Lastly, our local and global impact. On a local level, Ambrosia will support community initiatives and local charities focused on environmental conservation and food security. By actively participating in community events and partnerships, we seek to strengthen bonds and inspire collective action towards sustainable practices. On a global scale, Ambrosia will join industry-wide efforts to advocate for sustainable food systems and participate in global platforms addressing environmental challenges. Through collaboration with suppliers, industry associations, and policymakers, we will contribute to shaping policies that promote sustainable agriculture and reduce environmental degradation. In conclusion, Ambrosia's commitment to culinary innovation, sustainable practices, and community engagement will pave the way for a positive environmental impact over the next five years. By integrating these principles into our operations and inspiring others to follow suit, we aspire to create a ripple effect that transcends our restaurant's walls and contributes to a more sustainable future for generations to come.

I have devoted my life to service by volunteering with multiple non-profits across Houston and have accumulated over 150+ volunteer hours. Some of the organizations that I have worked with include Walk to End Alzheimers Houston, Third Ward Reads, Kids Meal, Inc. of Houston, and the UNCF. These organizations gave me an opportunity to learn more about myself and my community. I met various people from all walks of life, sparking the idea for my latest project. Hands, the word is precisely one syllable, comprised of 27 bones, and is one of the easiest ways to connect with another person. With small delicate hands, impacting my community was bigger than me and was a courageous act. When I joined Girl Scouts in kindergarten, I became committed to improving my community. Some of the activities I have taken part in included working with homeless people in the Houston area, fixing over 10,000 sandwiches for those who lived in food deserts, and protesting with other women who bravely marched in the rain for reproductive rights. However, working with special needs kids touched me. In eighth grade, I volunteered to serve as a life-skills aid for Mrs. Cooks' class. I assisted them with classwork and participated in life skills exercises such as cooking with the teacher. Through our conversations, Mrs. Cooks helped me understand that my community is broad and even includes those without a voice or the ability to use their hands. Not only did the enrichment I took part in during her program touch me, but it exposed me to the lack of inclusivity within discussions about nutrition for special needs students. These programs rarely considered the deformities, lack of mobility, and in some cases inaccessibility of certain foods due to financial restraints. While attending the Spelman Early College Program last summer, I began formulating my Gold Award project for Girl Scouts. I immediately thought about the awareness I could bring to the issue and how passionate I was about it. I planned out my project, which includes a web seminar, an in-person workshop with educational activities, pamphlets for administrators on how they can educate others, and the importance of refraining from using ableist language in their day-to-day lives. I planned to also explain the benefits of teaching these concepts to non-disabled children as well. I began officially filling out my application and starting the process. Praying that the council would approve me, I turned it in and waited impatiently for an email approving for me to start. Soon enough, my mentor delivered a glowing email that I had been approved and could start my project and research. I felt so excited my hands shook. Currently, I am finishing my research, cultivating my website and pamphlets, and pouring intention into this new endeavor. I plan to major in Political Science and Business Administration on a pre-law track at Spelman College fall of 2023. I am passionate about my community, exploring the legality of multiple issues and analyzing the law. After receiving my undergraduate degree, I plan to enroll in law school at Columbia University and receive my JD. I hope to intertwine my passion for education, business, and literature by starting a foundation in honor of my mom. Being able to advocate for those within my community who may not have the means or voice means a lot to me. It has allowed me to be an example for multiple people and I hope to continue to inspire and motivate people to examine the policies being applied within my community and across America as a whole.

As a Black male accounting major, I recognize the importance of creating a positive environmental impact on both my local and global communities in the next five years. Through the lens of finance, I will leverage my skills and knowledge to drive sustainable practices and contribute to a greener future. In the field of finance, I understand that capital allocation plays a crucial role in shaping environmental outcomes. By advocating for sustainable investments and incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into financial decision-making, I can help redirect funds toward companies and projects that prioritize eco-friendly practices. Through my expertise in accounting and financial analysis, I will work towards promoting green initiatives and supporting businesses that demonstrate a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. One avenue through which I can create a positive environmental impact is by encouraging the adoption of renewable energy sources. By analyzing the financial viability and long-term sustainability of renewable energy projects, I can help attract investments and promote the transition towards cleaner energy alternatives. This could involve conducting cost-benefit analyses, evaluating tax incentives and subsidies, and advising clients on the financial benefits of renewable energy adoption. By facilitating the financing of solar, wind, or other renewable energy projects, I can contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and promote a healthier environment. Another way I can make a difference is by incorporating sustainability metrics into financial reporting. By ensuring that environmental impacts are properly measured and disclosed in financial statements, I can enhance transparency and accountability. This information can help investors and stakeholders make informed decisions and encourage companies to improve their environmental performance. I will advocate for the adoption of sustainability reporting frameworks, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), to ensure that businesses disclose relevant environmental information accurately and consistently. In addition to my professional endeavors, I also recognize the importance of engaging with my local community to foster environmental awareness and action. I will actively participate in community events, workshops, and seminars to educate others about the financial implications of sustainable practices. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I hope to inspire individuals to make environmentally conscious decisions in their personal and professional lives. Furthermore, as a Black male, I understand the significance of diversity and inclusion in environmental initiatives. I will actively support and collaborate with organizations that promote environmental justice and aim to address the disproportionate impact of environmental issues on marginalized communities. By amplifying underrepresented voices and advocating for equitable access to sustainable resources, I can contribute to a more inclusive and just environmental movement. In conclusion, through my role as a Black male accounting major, I will strive to create a positive environmental impact on both my local and global communities in the next five years. By leveraging my finance skills, I will promote sustainable investments, encourage renewable energy adoption, incorporate sustainability metrics into financial reporting, and actively engage with my community. Through these efforts, I aim to contribute to a greener future and inspire others to take action towards environmental sustainability.

As a member of both my local and global communities, I believe it is my responsibility to make a positive environmental impact in the world around me. I am passionate about the environment and the role that individuals and businesses can play in preserving our planet for future generations. Through the lens of marketing, I plan to create a positive environmental impact by promoting sustainability and eco-friendly practices in my local and global communities in the next five years. Marketing is a powerful tool for influencing behavior and driving change. By effectively communicating the benefits of sustainable practices and eco-friendly products, I believe we can encourage individuals and businesses to make environmentally responsible choices. In my local community, I plan to use my marketing skills to promote environmentally sustainable practices in businesses and homes. I will do this by creating educational materials and campaigns to encourage people to reduce waste, conserve energy, and make eco-friendly choices. By partnering with local businesses and organizations, I hope to create a sustainable ecosystem in my community. Globally, I plan to use my marketing skills to promote eco-friendly products and services. As a consumer, I believe we have a responsibility to support businesses that prioritize sustainability. I plan to create content that educates people on the benefits of eco-friendly products and services, such as reusable water bottles, sustainable clothing, and solar-powered energy. By raising awareness and promoting these products, I hope to drive demand for sustainable alternatives and encourage businesses to prioritize sustainability in their operations. In addition to marketing, I am also interested in the field of wellness and believe that wellness practices can have a positive environmental impact. By promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyles, we can reduce our impact on the environment and improve our overall well-being. In the next five years, I plan to use my marketing skills to promote wellness practices that are good for both our health and the environment. For example, I will promote the use of public transportation, cycling, or walking as an alternative to driving, which contributes to air pollution. Additionally, I will encourage people to eat more plant-based meals, which have a lower carbon footprint than meat-based meals. By promoting wellness practices that benefit both our health and the environment, I believe we can make a positive impact on both a local and global scale. Finally, I believe that technology can also be a powerful tool for creating a positive environmental impact. In the next five years, I plan to leverage my knowledge of technology to promote sustainable practices and reduce waste. For example, I will promote the use of digital platforms for communication and collaboration, which reduces paper waste and energy consumption. I will also encourage the use of smart home technologies, such as energy-efficient appliances and thermostats, to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency. By using technology in innovative ways, I believe we can make a significant impact on the environment and reduce our carbon footprint. In conclusion, I am committed to making a positive environmental impact in my local and global communities in the next five years. Through the lens of marketing, wellness, and technology, I plan to promote sustainability, reduce waste, and encourage eco-friendly practices. By leveraging my knowledge and skills in these areas, I believe I can make a meaningful contribution to preserving our planet for future generations. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to working with others to create a more sustainable world.

Currently, I work in the Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa in the room service and restaurant departments. Here I built rapport with new and returning guests to promote the company's mission and values, optimized workflow by maintaining a clean and organized workplace and managed the reservation log with accuracy and detail, making sure to note any special occasions and requests. After I graduate high school I intend to continue working in this establishment to fund my education as I study to be an Anesthesiologist. I am also part of a program called Upward Bound which provides its student with various opportunities for community service as well as tutoring and college opportunities. Through Upward Bound I have gone to beach clean-ups, removal of invasive plant species, planting native plants, rock painting, Christmas toy donations, and more. After I graduate high school I intend to either continue to work with Upper Bound as a tutor or join other groups that promote environmentalism such as the Environmentalist club at Monterey Peninsula College. In addition to that I plan on raising money to create care packages for homeless shelters and homeless people not residing in shelters. These care packages would Include hygienic products such as tissue, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, etc. as well as first aid supply and feminine products. Within the next five years, in order to create a more positive environmental impact on my local and global communities through wellness and health implement the following into my daily and monthly routines. Promote active transportation: Encourage people to walk, bike, or use public transportation instead of driving alone. This can reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, as well as promote physical activity and improve overall health. Reduce waste: Promote the reduction, reuse, and recycling of waste. This can include composting food scraps, reducing single-use plastics, and opting to use reusable containers. Support sustainable agriculture: Promote local and sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming and regenerative agriculture, which can improve soil health, reduce carbon emissions, and provide healthier food options. Promote plant-based diets: Encourage people to eat a plant-based diet or reduce their consumption of animal products. This can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve health outcomes. Protect natural areas: Protect and preserve natural areas, such as parks and forests, which provide important opportunities for physical activity and mental health. Support clean energy: Advocate for clean energy sources, such as wind and solar power, which can reduce air pollution and improve respiratory health. Encourage community involvement: Support community programs and events that promote health and environmental sustainability, such as community gardens or bike-sharing programs.