Northwest Early College High School student selected to take part in Civic Innovation Summer Academy in Washington, D.C.
This summer, Sebastian Esparza has no plans to sleep in late or relax by the pool. The Northwest Early College High School student known for his quiet determination and passion for social change is headed to the nation’s capital to help create solutions to real-life problems facing our nation.
It is this commitment to political action and civic engagement that has earned Esparza a spot in the prestigious Civics Unplugged Civic Innovation Summer Academy at Georgetown University.
The Civic Innovation Academy is a one-week, in-person experience designed for the most innovative young change-makers. Over the course of a week, a cohort of 75 Civic Fellows from across the country work together and meet face-to-face with legislators, organizers, CEOs, and academics to explore the diverse world of change.
Participants will use what they learn to work directly with staff from executive departments to brainstorm solutions to problems facing the nation. Previous Fellows have met with representatives from the departments of State, Treasury, Education and The White House.
“Sebastian's selection speaks volumes about his leadership potential and dedication to making a positive impact in his community,” said NWECHS Principal Frank Clark. “As he embarks on this exciting journey, he is poised to gain invaluable knowledge and skills that will undoubtedly shape his future endeavors in the realm of civic innovation.”
Esparza is excited at the prospect of learning from renowned experts and collaborating with like-minded peers from around the world through this immersive experience in social entrepreneurship, civic engagement and innovative problem-solving.
“I hope to be a change-maker by applying myself to my community and doing my best to support it,” Esparza said. “If I were to get a grant through Civics Unplugged, I would more than likely invest it back into my community by creating a program that dealt with education or making a community garden. I think civic engagement is extremely important for young people to have due to the impact legislation and voting can have long term on us. If we do not use our voice to push for the change and ideals we want, then no one else will do it for us.”
In the future, Esparza says he hopes to be able to enter the world of public service to ensure a better tomorrow by becoming an advocate for legislation to advance the nation.