Student Achievements
Explore the remarkable journeys of students who transformed challenges into opportunities, pursued higher education, excelled in their careers, or showcased outstanding academic achievements. Witness the impact of our programs on young lives, fostering resilience, leadership, and a brighter future for all.
Inspiring Futures Through Music
Risk factors such as social underrepresentation, family instability, and health challenges can frequently undermine people's likelihood to succeed. We have found that students like Maria José Cerón (14) and Abril Popoca (who participated in our program for sustained periods of time) become resourceful, resilient, and develop an enhanced outlook on life. We are proud of them and their achievements.
Overcoming Odds: University Triumphs
Several of our former students have moved on to a university career and attribute their involvement at school to their participation in Young Musicians for a Brighter Future. One of them is Francisco "Junior" Hernandez. After overcoming significant childhood physical impediments, "Junior" became a Kinesiology major at Utah State University and an Apprentice Goalkeeper Coach with the LA Galaxy Foundation. Similarly, Cody Guadarrama, son of immigrant workers from Mexico, became a first-generation student of Data Analysis at Utah State University.
Students Excelling in Higher Education
Other students were already likely to go to college but strengthened their qualifications, leadership, and social involvement through their experience in our program. Natalia and Daniella López have won national research awards and have a stellar academic record in college and high school, respectively. Our founding youth and children teachers are also excellent students of Pre-Med at Vanderbilt University (David Kim), Information Systems at the University of Utah (Daniel Kim), and Psychology at NYU (Gabriela Bernal).
From Program to Professional Roles
Other students did not go to college but went on to full-time jobs and positions of responsibility. Johany Pinales-Bame struggled with ADHD as a child. Through his participation in our program, he learned to focus and prioritize. Now, at age 18, he is the proud father of a beautiful baby and an assistant manager at a Jimmy-John's in town. Quetzaly Popoca, whose dedication on the violin earned her the opportunity to participate in an international Youth Music Festival in Italy, now works full-time.
Young Scholars: Bright Futures
Our current scholarship students Noemí Figueroa and Ariana Villegas (both age 9) do very well in school and are engaged in extracurricular activities and sports. Their chances of a balanced livelihood and social engagement are quite promising.