I think the future of Latinx in America is very bright. Being part of that group, I am able to say that lots of us share important values, customs, and mindsets. All that plays a major role in the ability to collaborate with others to improve the communities that we are a part of. I believe leaders in the Latinx community must be fearless, open minded, and risk takers. We need leaders who come back to their communities to make a change once they have gained enough knowledge for themselves; leaders that have qualities that unite groups of people to help solve local issues like poverty. Desired leaders are people who never forget how or where they grew up and the people who contributed to their success. I think leaders stand out for their character and genuine care for others. They are people who are not forced to spend time helping or giving. Being a leader is not for everyone. The role I hope to play in providing leadership is through art. My career goal is to study business in order to open my own photography studio in the future. I’ve been passionate about photography for around five years now and I believe I’ve grown in my ability to take photographs that tell a story. My documentary and street photography exposes and shows the raw perspective of my community. I believe using my strengths in art to uplift my community is the type of leadership I am able to contribute. My leadership will benefit my community in a way where the people can feel good about themselves, their culture, jobs, families, and most importantly the place they call home. There are many stereotypes and negativity in the world, which leads people to think less of their communities. Therefore, my purpose will be to inspire those people that let the negativity get to them. I also have a strong growth mindset, meaning the way I help others today will be different from the way I can provide leadership and help others tomorrow. I will be able to give more to others as I experience more in my life. Patience plays a big role in leadership as well because I think everything in life has its destined moment. I love to see others succeed. It brings me joy and hope.

Grabbing my camera, bringing it to my eye, and capturing a moment in time is how I express my creativity. I believe art is one of the many ways to bring awareness and tell stories, and street photography gives me the opportunity to show raw emotions. I love taking portraits in the street or in someone’s home, but in the street, it’s more open and you can play unconstrained with color, shadow, light and composition. One of my most recent projects was to develop a personal portfolio. I chose my neighborhood in South Central LA, where I photographed locations and people of importance to me. I also included short journal entries about how I feel other people stereotype certain areas and make assumptions, and I wanted to show it’s truth. The truth that despite the struggle and hardships, these are hard working people who have built a strong community. I wanted to show that even the ugly can be beautiful. One of my photos in particular that speaks to me was taken at the Exposition Rose Garden. It was a really hot day and I spotted a elderly man selling ice cream with his cart. Police officers told him that he wasn't allowed to sell there and threatened to fine him if he disobeyed. It made me wonder, after he sadly walked away, if selling his ice cream was his only source of income and if that was the way he was able to feed his family. I think my point in taking raw pictures like that shows others the beauty of hard work and sacrifice. Photography is a powerful creative tool, and I’m only scratching the surface on my ability to use the lens to communicate perspectives and stories. I love it because it’s something I can always do on my own and always depend on; it allows for my emotion and perspective at any time. I have big goals for my career in photography, and hope to one day open my own studio to share with other photographers and offer classes to others who see moments and must capture them. Along with that major goal, I want to be able to publish documentary books with honest journal writing.