My passion for art and storytelling has always driven me to create illustrations that capture the rich cultural histories of people and communities. Growing up as an Indigenous Latine woman, I have seen the power of stories in preserving cultural heritage, but I have also observed the barriers that prevent under-resourced communities from accessing opportunities in the visual arts. These experiences inspire my goal to give back to youth by using my skills in art and anthropology to foster cultural pride and understanding. My family has faced many challenges, including financial hardship. Both of my parents were incarcerated while I was in high school and preparing for college, forcing me to put my education on hold as my family struggled to support themselves. During this time, we all chipped in to help one another. Though I dreamed of attending art school, I knew it was unrealistic at that time. However, starting at community college has allowed me to rebuild my confidence and access fundamental art education in a more accessible way. I believe art is essential for everyone, but especially for those who are struggling. Art offers a means of expression, a way to honor stories, and a way to envision a limitless future. I incorporate this theme of accessible expression with the kids I interact with. I plan to give back to under-resourced communities by creating art that tells the stories of diverse cultures while empowering youth to see themselves in those stories. One of my long-term goals is to create a children's book or comic that reflects the diversity of our world, making cultural narratives accessible to younger generations. By focusing on underrepresented voices, I hope to inspire children from marginalized backgrounds to take pride in their heritage. In addition to creating accessible art, I want to preserve cultural heritage through archiving and education. I aspire to become an archivist, preserving and sharing the histories of diverse communities. In this role, I hope to empower young people to understand the importance of their own history, instilling pride and purpose. My educational journey, which includes plans to attend the University of Arizona to study both art and anthropology, will equip me with the skills and knowledge to make these dreams a reality. I am committed to giving back to under-resourced communities, creating pathways for youth to access the visual arts and connect with their cultural stories. However, achieving these goals comes with financial challenges. While I am grateful for the financial aid that covers my tuition, I still face significant needs for school supplies and living costs. As a tutor, I find fulfillment in helping students, but my income is seasonal and unpredictable. Additionally, I assist my sister with her mortgage, further stretching my limited finances. Despite relying on food stamps and Medicaid, I continue to struggle to make ends meet while focusing on my education. Additional financial support would allow me to concentrate on my studies and future projects without the constant worry of covering living expenses. This support would also enable me to save for future educational pursuits, ensuring I can continue my work in the visual arts without interruption. By alleviating this financial burden, I will be able to focus on giving back to under-resourced communities through my work in art and anthropology. This scholarship would empower me to fulfill my goal of using art to inspire and uplift youth, helping them connect with their heritage and discover their potential. Through my work, I hope to break down barriers that limit access to the visual arts and provide mentorship for marginalized youth.