At Lakewood High School in California, I founded the Wellness Center Club, a self-initiated project aimed at addressing the mental health and wellness needs of marginalized and underserved students. Recognizing that mental health is often stigmatized and overlooked in secondary education, especially among students from diverse backgrounds, our club was established to create a safe space where students could access resources, support, and community. The inception of the Wellness Center Club stemmed from a shared concern among students about the alarming rates of anxiety, depression, and social isolation witnessed among our peers. Many students, particularly those from marginalized communities, often face unique challenges that compound their stressors—ranging from economic hardships to cultural barriers. With a dedicated group of like-minded peers, we sought to mitigate these challenges by fostering a culture of openness, acceptance, and understanding. Our first step was to engage with the administration and mental health professionals at our school. We organized meetings to discuss the specific needs of our student body. Through these discussions, we learned about the existing resources available at the school’s Wellness Center, which included counseling services, workshops, and various mental health programs. However, we recognized that many students were unaware of these services or felt intimidated to seek help. It became clear that we needed to bridge this gap by not only raising awareness but also providing peer-led initiatives that could foster a more inviting atmosphere. To address these concerns, the Wellness Center Club became a hub for mental health advocacy and student-led initiatives. We organized weekly meetings that included activities designed to promote mental wellness, such as mindfulness sessions, group discussions, and workshops on stress management. Additionally, we hosted guest speakers, including mental health professionals and alumni who shared their own experiences with mental health challenges. These sessions served to demystify mental health issues and provide students with relatable role models. One of our standout initiatives was the "Wellness Week," a themed series of events where we invited the entire school community to participate in various activities focused on mental health awareness. This included yoga classes, mental health fairs, and art therapy workshops. We ensured that these activities were inclusive and accessible, encouraging involvement from students across all grades and backgrounds. The response was overwhelmingly positive; students expressed feeling more comfortable discussing their mental health, and many accessed the resources offered at the Wellness Center for the first time. Moreover, we found effective ways to reach students who might be less inclined to engage in traditional setting. We collaborated with various student organizations and ethnic clubs to tailor our programs to reflect the diverse cultures and experiences within our school. This approach not only amplified our outreach but also fostered a sense of community and collective healing among students who often felt isolated in their struggles. In conclusion, the Wellness Center Club at Lakewood High School has proven to be a transformative initiative that highlights the importance of mental health advocacy in high school settings. By prioritizing inclusivity and peer support, we have successfully reduced stigma, increased awareness, and empowered students, providing them with the tools needed to navigate their mental health journeys. Our ongoing commitment to serving marginalized and underserved populations continues to inspire new initiatives, ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and supported.

My name is Lynee Boyd, and I’m an 18 year-old female from sunny California, brimming with aspirations and a passion for creativity. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve found joy in expressing myself through fashion. Whether it was dressing up my dolls or experimenting with different styles in my closet, I’ve always believed that clothing is more than just fabric; it's a powerful medium for self-expression and storytelling. This belief has shaped my dream of becoming a fashion stylist, a role I see as not only a personal aspiration but also a way to make a positive impact on the world. Fashion has an incredible ability to reflect culture and identity, and I’ve always been drawn to its transformative power. Living in California, I’ve witnessed the diverse fashion influences that stem from various backgrounds, communities, and personal experiences. This vibrant environment has nurtured my love for a style that celebrates individuality while promoting inclusivity. As a stylist, I want to curate looks that empower others to embrace their uniqueness, helping them to express who they are without fear of judgment. But my vision for a career in fashion goes beyond just aesthetics. I believe that fashion can catalyze conversation and inspire change. In recent years, the industry has begun to acknowledge its role in issues like sustainability and body positivity. I want to be part of this movement, using my skills to promote ethical fashion and inclusivity in all its forms. By collaborating with sustainable brands and advocating for fair labor practices, I hope to contribute to a fashion landscape that prioritizes people and the planet over profits. My journey toward becoming a fashion stylist includes not only honing my skills but also seeking opportunities to give back to the community. Growing up attending local events and fashion shows, I’ve always felt a sense of responsibility toward those who may not have access to the same resources or representation in the fashion world. I plan to use my future career as a platform for mentorship and empowerment, especially for young girls who may feel marginalized or overlooked. One initiative I envision is hosting workshops and fashion camps in underrepresented communities. Through these programs, I want to teach students about styling, photography, and self-expression, encouraging them to find their voice. I want to show them that fashion can be a tool for empowerment, allowing them to build confidence and embrace their individuality. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions and dreams unapologetically. In addition to mentorship, I aim to leverage social media to raise awareness about various social causes linked to the fashion industry. I see platforms like Instagram and TikTok as powerful tools to educate and engage audiences about sustainability, body diversity, and the importance of self-love. By showcasing diverse representations of beauty and style, I want to create meaningful connections and conversations that can lead to positive change. As I embark on this journey toward becoming a fashion stylist, I am filled with excitement and determination. I believe in fashion as a vehicle for self-expression, empowerment, and social change. With each outfit I put together and every client I style, I hope to encourage others to embrace their individuality while fostering a broader dialogue around inclusivity and sustainability in fashion. I envision a future where fashion not only enhances personal style but also uplifts communities and paves the way for a more compassionate world. By committing myself to this cause, I aim to leave a meaningful mark on the industry and help others express their true selves with confidence.

Growing up as an 18-year-old Black girl in California, my life has been shaped by both the vibrant culture around me and the strong foundation of my faith. The years spent at Beacon Light Baptist Church have instilled in me a sense of community, resilience, and unwavering belief in God’s plan, even during challenging times. One of the most significant obstacles I faced was during my junior year of high school. As I entered a crucial phase in my academic life, the pressure to excel in my studies and extracurricular activities became overwhelming. I had always been an ambitious student, juggling honors classes with my passion for the performing arts. However, that year was marked by unexpected family challenges. My mother lost her job, and the financial strain weighed heavily on our family. The stress was palpable, causing tension at home, and I found it increasingly difficult to focus on my schoolwork. As the pressure mounted, I began to feel anxious and defeated, questioning my capabilities and whether I could continue to balance everything. It was during this period of turmoil that I turned to my faith for guidance and strength. I remember one particularly tough evening when the weight of my responsibilities felt unbearable. Having just come home from a long day at school, I sat at my desk, surrounded by textbooks and notes, and broke down. In that moment of vulnerability, I found myself reaching for my Bible, a comfort in times of distress. I opened it and landed on Philippians 4:6-7, which reads, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Those words resonated deep within me. I realized that I did not have to face these challenges alone. I began to pray earnestly, not just asking for strength to get through my studies, but also for clarity and peace during these turbulent times. I sought God’s guidance in navigating my responsibilities and turning the obstacles in my path into stepping stones for growth. With renewed perspective, I decided to create a structured schedule that balanced my academic obligations with personal time for reflection and prayer. I also found solace in discussing my struggles with the youth group at Beacon Light Baptist Church, where support and encouragement flowed freely. It was inspiring to see how others my age were grappling with their challenges while maintaining their faith. The conversations we shared became a source of motivation for me, reminding me that we are all in this together. As weeks went by, I found strength in my faith, and my circumstances began to shift. I learned to let go of the fear of failure and to embrace the journey of learning. I started achieving better grades, and the emotional burden I carried started to lift. My mother also found a new job, which relieved some of the financial stress on our family. Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the power of faith. It not only helped me overcome a significant challenge but also deepened my relationship with God and my community. I emerged stronger and more resilient, equipped with the understanding that faith can provide a refuge in times of difficulty. Today, as I prepare for the next chapter in my life—college and beyond—I carry the lessons learned through that experience with me, knowing that with faith and perseverance, I can overcome any obstacle that comes my way.