Rev 1/18 AZ
Community Services Department
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., B
P.O. Box 5006, Fremont, CA 94538
510.494.4344 | [email protected] | www.fremont.gov
Return Application to: City Clerk’s Office
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., A
Fremont, CA 94538
Or to: [email protected]
Date submitted: 04/10/24
Application for Youth Advisory Commission
Name: Aryav Dube
Address:
Birthdate: Age: 15 Sex: M / F E-mail address:
Telephone: School: Grade: 10
Demographic Information:
Ethnicity:
□ American Indian or Alaskan Native □ Chinese
□ Black or African American □ White
□ Afghan □ Vietnamese
□ Mexican □ Filipino
□ Indian □ Pakistani
□ Other Asian origin: ________________ (write-in optional) □ Other African origin: _______________ (write-in optional) □ Other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: __________ (write-in optional)
Gender:
□ Male □ Prefer to self-identify
□ Female □ Prefer not to say
Language(s) Spoken: English
Rev 1/18 AZ
1. Why do you want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission?
I want to serve on the Fremont City Youth Advisory Commission because I am passionate about being actively involved in my community and advocating for the voices and interests of Fremont's youth. As a Fremont resident my whole life, I have witnessed our city grow over the years, and I want to play a direct role in shaping its future in a positive way that benefits the local people. By serving on the Youth Commission, I will have the opportunity to collaborate with other youth members and gain valuable experiences in local government processes. This will allow me to push for reforms, initiatives, and activities that provide for the needs and desires of Fremont's large youth population. I believe it’s crucial for young people to have a platform where their perspectives are heard and considered when making decisions that will impact them later. I hope to utilize my position on the Commission to promote unity, combined effort, and public service within our community. I want to be a part of the force that brings people together around shared goals of improving Fremont for all residents. I am prepared to work hard and go above and beyond in serving the Commission and Fremont's youth population. Being part of the Fremont City Youth Advisory Commission would be an incredible opportunity to gain leadership experience, give back to my home community, and make a positive impact on the lives of my peers.
2. What is a problem Fremont teens face and propose an event to address this problem? How would you organize and publicize this event?
One major issue many Fremont teens have is excessive stress, anxiety and pressure. This mental strain can grow from overwhelming academic expectations to excel in school while trying to manage multiple extracurriculars to get into top colleges. Family circumstances or societal pressures can also contribute to this problem. This stress can have severely negative impacts on teens' mental health. To help with this issue, I would propose that the Fremont City Youth Advisory Commission organize a mental health awareness campaign and event focused on providing teens an anonymous outlet to voice their struggles. This could take the form of creating an online platform (website/social media) where teens can open up about their personal issues or mental health challenges anonymously and receive advice/guidance from qualified counselors. The event component could be a city-wide mental health fair that is willing to give help and promotes overall wellness. It could feature educational booths, yoga/meditation sessions, speeches from mental health advocates, and most importantly, sign-ups for the online counseling platform. Publicizing would utilize social media marketing targeted at Fremont teens, promotion through schools/student groups, ads in local publications, flyers/posters around town, and celebrity/influencer ambassadors to raise awareness. The goal would be fostering an environment where teens don't feel alone and can get the support they need without fear or judgment. The Fremont Youth Commission can work to improve teens' mental health and equip them with positive coping tools for lifelong wellbeing.
3. What are three (3) aspects of your identity that shape your outlook on life?
Being a lifelong Fremont resident: The fact that I have lived in Fremont my entire life is highlighted multiple times. This means Fremont is deeply woven into my identity and worldview. Growing up in the same community shapes my experiences, values, and connection to that place. As a lifelong resident, I have a strong sense of civic pride, investment in Fremont's future, and an understanding of the city's strengths, challenges, and youth culture. Passion for youth advocacy and public service: My clear enthusiasm for being a voice for Fremont's youth and giving back to the community suggests public service and advocacy are important parts of who I am. I am driven to create positive change, bring people together, and ensure young peoples' needs are Rev 1/18 AZ
prioritized. Public service roles allow me to promote cooperation and tackle issues I care about. Concern about mental health and teen pressures: The significant focus on addressing teen mental health issues like stress, anxiety, academic pressures, and the need for support services indicates this is a cause very personal and important to me. Perhaps I or loved ones have been impacted by these challenges. This lens of promoting emotional wellbeing and healthier mindsets for youth could be a key part of how I view the world and want to help others.
4. Create and answer your own question.
Question - How can we encourage more young people to engage with the city Youth Advisory Commission or YAC?
Make it Appealing and Relevant:
1. Highlight the Impact: Clearly communicate the power the YAC has to influence decisions that directly affect them. Promote success stories of past projects initiated by the YAC.
2. Focus on Interests: Survey young people about the issues they care about and tailor YAC projects and discussions to those interests. This could include environmental issues, mental health awareness, technology in schools, or community events.
3. Show, Don't Tell: Organize events and workshops led by current YAC members showcasing the commission's work and the skills they gain from participation.
Promote Awareness and Accessibility:
1. Social Media Savvy: Utilize platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat to spread the word about the YAC in a way that resonates with young people.
2. Partnership Power: Collaborate with local schools, youth organizations, and clubs to spread information about the YAC and encourage nominations.
3. Break Down Barriers: Simplify the application process and consider offering workshops or mentoring programs to prepare young people for applying.
Create a Welcoming Environment:
1. Diverse Voices: Actively seek applications from young people of all backgrounds and experiences to create a truly representative YAC.
2. Flexible Participation: Explore ways for young people with busy schedules to participate, such as offering virtual meetings or shorter-term projects.
3. Mentorship and Support: Provide mentorship and training to YAC members to help them develop leadership skills, public speaking abilities, and project management experience.
Celebrate and Recognize:
1. Showcase Achievements: Publicly acknowledge the accomplishments of the YAC through press releases, social media posts, or local news segments.
2. Fun & Recognition: Organize social events or award ceremonies to celebrate the YAC's contributions and foster a sense of community among members.
By implementing these strategies, the YAC can become a more vibrant and engaging space for young people, attracting a wider range of voices and fostering a new generation of active and informed citizens.
Rev 1/18 AZ
Community Services Department
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., B
P.O. Box 5006, Fremont, CA 94538
510.494.4344 | [email protected] | www.fremont.gov
Return Application to: City Clerk’s Office
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., A
Fremont, CA 94538
Or to: [email protected]
Date submitted: 04/18/2024
Application for Youth Advisory Commission
Name: Shamak Gowda
Address:
Birthdate: Age: 16 Sex: M / F E-mail address:
Telephone: School: Grade: 11
Demographic Information:
Ethnicity:
□ American Indian or Alaskan Native □ Chinese
□ Black or African American □ White
□ Afghan □ Vietnamese
□ Mexican □ Filipino
□ Indian □ Pakistani
□ Other Asian origin: ________________ (write-in optional) □ Other African origin: _______________ (write-in optional) □ Other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: __________ (write-in optional)
Gender:
□ Male □ Prefer to self-identify
□ Female □ Prefer not to say
Language(s) Spoken: English, Spanish, Kannada
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Why do you want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission?
My interest in serving on the Youth Advisory Commission actually began yesterday. Over the weekend, we held the annual CA statewide conference for Citizen’s Climate Lobby, a national statewide organization with over 400,000 members dedicated to building political will to solve climate change. I have had the pleasure of being a member of my local CCL chapter (unfortunately one of only two youth) for around two years, and I was attending a session that just so happened to be led by a fellow chapter member on the topic of Diversity & Inclusion. She was gathering opinions from the audience on how to recruit more youth members, which are as of now a minority in an overwhelming amount of CCL chapters. An audience member responded that actually most cities have a youth advisory board, which is the perfect place to recruit civically-engaged youth members and for youth to directly express their opinions to the city. So obviously, I thought that this could be the perfect opportunity for me to not only advance some more climate policy in Fremont (which is already pretty climate-forward as cities go), but to also recruit some youth members for our chapter.
My main focus if appointed will be climate policy, specifically how youth can contribute to climate policy. Throughout high school, I’ve been lucky to be able to lobby representatives like Eric Swalwell and State Senator Aisha Wahab. Sometimes we’re able to convince these representatives (Rep. Swalwell has been very supportive of bills like Big Wires and the 2021 GCSA), and sometimes we’re not, but these politicians have always been enthusiastic to hear opinions from youth like me. This has almost singlehandedly restored my faith in government and is the reason I would love to participate in a youth advisory board. So far in my climate career, I haven’t focused much on impacting Fremont city legislation. And although Fremont has done a great job increasing climate awareness and climate literacy through FUSD, still more can be done in terms of electrification. As a co-lead of CCL’s National Youth Action Team, I’ve started a national challenge that incentivizes students to present resolutions to electrify their schools (The Great School Electrification Challenge).
However, going to a school not part of FUSD has made it very difficult to start my own team, so I plan to use this opportunity to network with members of local high schools to identify problems specific to FUSD schools. FUSD has done a great job introducing electric school buses, but I hope to get their input to determine if more work can be done to improve HVAC systems and school kitchens (induction stove tops), either through immediate replacement or through prewiring and replacement upon failure.
What is a problem Fremont teens face and propose an event to address this problem. How would you organize and publicize this event?
Right now, youth involvement in the climate movement is a hot topic. As most people know, in a few decades the youth of today will be burdened with these issues. However, one of the biggest problems that youth face is not recognizing their own capability to impact government. That’s why twice a year (as well as at the California Conference I mentioned earlier), I hold a Youth Lobby Training to inform youth on the best lobbying practices and to help them learn about current climate policy. This would be a perfect event for Fremont to hold as well. In my experience, these lobby trainings are easiest to do online, but it would be possible to hold it at a venue like a community center. The event would start off with a policy overview, go into lobbying techniques, and end with a mock lobby with a fun and unserious ask (like making a national ice cream flavor), where the presenters could act as mock Members of Congress, and attendees could break into groups to form lobby teams. It’s really important that these events are interactive, with consistent engagement of the audience. And these skills can be applied to talking with school and city officials, as well federal representatives. For an event like this, it is important to publicize strategically, for example by reaching out to local policy-based or environmental clubs and other civically-involved youth. We could partner with these clubs to spread the word to high schools, offering free drinks and snacks as an extra incentive to attend. One idea I’ve found really effective is asking teachers to offer students extra credit to go to impactful events like these.
At the beginning of last year, as a part of a student-led climate organization called Beyond Terra where I used to be a Conservation/Research team lead, we held a Fremont Youth Climate Summit. This was a really meaningful event that I believe we should make annual in order to allow students to network and find interesting ways to best impact the climate movement. We held the event at the Fremont Downtown Event center, and we invited local robotics teams, environmental clubs, and climate organizations like CCL and Sierra Club. It was a super easy way for students to immerse themselves into the climate movement, hear from local speakers like Lisa Oliver(a middle school science teacher) and Martha Kreeger, and even meet Mayor Lily Mei. These events are easily publicized through social media and news sources. In addition, we could place flyers in places Fremont youth frequent like movie theatres and Boba shops if planning an even larger scale event in the future.
What are three (3) aspects of your identity that shape your outlook on life?
1. A love of biking and photography in Coyote Hills . Since middle school, I used to go mountain biking in Coyote Hills every couple weeks. I’ve seen deer, sheep, and turkeys along the 15-mile path to the top of a mountain and back into my neighborhood. At the very top is a picturesque view of the bay where my friends and I stop every Rev 1/18 AZ
time we make the trip. The best part is that through all these years, the view hasn’t changed–and I hope it never does. This has been a major influence on my motivation for climate action.
2. Model UN. Model UN is an extremely interesting activity because it is what you make of it. It has taught me the importance of compromise and being in the know about national and international politics. It’s really inspiring to see passional students talk about serious issues. I’ve chaired an international MUN through Schoolhouse, and it was amazing to listen to people from different parts of the world. My favorite committee is the US Senate, where I’ve found that being able to cooperate with the opposing party makes the whole experience worthwhile. I’ve also learned the importance of not stressing and worrying about awards–recognition is the result of both hard work and a bit of luck.
3. Karma. I’ve always believed in the fact that ultimately all people have the same amount of luck, but your luck changes based on the quality of the actions that you engage in throughout life. if you help people now, there may be someone to help you during your time of need. It’s something that has inspired me to do what I can to give back to the community. I’ve tutored over 180 learners for free (and I’m a paid tutor @ Fiveable), and as Key Club president & Division Secretary I’ve held numerous events for charitable organizations like the Pediatric Trauma Program.
Do you have any immediate suggestions for the current Advisory Board?
I don’t know if my application will be reviewed in time, but the elections are coming up this November! I know a lot of the members of the Commission are ineligible to vote, but I believe it would be really useful to have a youth voter registration campaign for first-time voters. I’ve done tabling at places like farmers’ markets before, and I think it is impactful to have people commit in writing to vote because it makes it exponentially more likely that they actually will vote. It has always been a problem that youth vote far less than other demographics, so this is my suggestion even if I’m not accepted to the commission. Even underage youth can pre-register.
Rev 1/18 AZ
Community Services Department
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., B
P.O. Box 5006, Fremont, CA 94538
510.494.4344 | [email protected] | www.fremont.gov
Return Application to: City Clerk’s Office
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., A
Fremont, CA 94538
Or to: [email protected]
Date submitted: _________________________
Application for Youth Advisory Commission
Name: Gavia Grewal
Address:
Birthdate: Age: 15 Sex: F E-mail address:
Telephone School Grade: 10
Demographic Information:
Ethnicity:
□ American Indian or Alaskan Native □ Chinese
□ Black or African American □ White
□ Afghan □ Vietnamese
□ Mexican □ Filipino
x Indian □ Pakistani
□ Other Asian origin: ________________ (write-in optional) □ Other African origin: _______________ (write-in optional) □ Other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: __________ (write-in optional)
Gender:
□ Male □ Prefer to self-identify
x Female □ Prefer not to say
Language(s) Spoken: English, Punjabi, Hindi, Spanish
Rev 1/18 AZ
Why do you want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission?
I began learning debate in fifth grade, where we discussed topics relating to NATO and Turkey. To learn more, I would stay up and watch the news with my dad, and he would explain the events to me. In 2020, I saw the first Indian-American female win election to the vice presidency and am now watching the first Punjabi-American women, similar to me, have a big role in government. Those women and many others have inspired me to get more involved and have a voice in government. Interning for politicians such as Sam Liccardo and Ro Khanna and observing them make impactful positive changes for citizens has also deeply furthered my interests in making changes myself. Sitting on this commission would help me gain hands-on experience in how local government works and is a way so that I have a voice in my community and can make differences that make positive differences. I also began taking public speaking lessons which helped me learn to be a more confident speaker, which has helped me formulate and voice my own opinions. I want to use that ability to help others who do not have the opportunity to voice their own concerns be heard. I also want to have a say in how the city engages with students and help communicate issues that matter to us to the City Council.
What is a problem Fremont teens face and propose an event to address this problem. How would you organize and publicize this event?
Parents and schools in Fremont sometimes hold unreachable standards for their students, which causes students to feel insecure about themselves. Being compared to and comparing yourself with other students can lower a student’s self- esteem and lead to additional stress. Students have turned school into a competition because they have to worry about college and having opportunities that make them stand out from the rest. Parents can also fuel this anxiety by overmanaging their students’ time outside school.
To address this problem, I’d propose a couple options: First, have events at school that help reduce stress—bring petting zoos or therapy animals to schools, host community yoga or ceramic classes, and invite counselors or therapists that specialize in adolescents give talks on reducing stress. Second, having monthly counselor and parent night information sessions where a guest speaker—ideally a mental health specialist from the community—can talk to parents about ways to help alleviate stress from their child and discuss how stress can affect teenagers. Additionally, schools and the city can hold jobs and club fairs so students can find internships and volunteer opportunities for themselves. Giving them these chances will help them gain skills and enable them to feel more effective and independent. Being able to do something that has a good impact and makes a difference in the community will make the teen feel more competent and feel capable of doing things on their own. These events can be publicized through school newsletters, clubs associated with job fairs, school counselors and therapists, school and club Instagram accounts, the city’s Facebook page, and the Fremont recreation newspaper (specifically the Teen and Adult sections).
What are three (3) aspects of your identity that shape your outlook on life?
The first aspect would be me being Sikh and Punjabi and how the values in my culture and religion shape my outlook on life and the decisions that I make.
Secondly, I am an incredibly extroverted person and find that I am the best version of myself when I get to talk to people and conversate. This has helped me build strong connections and network.
Likewise, my roles as sister, daughter, teammate, friend, student really shape how I approach others and the world.
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Create and answer your own question.
What is gatekeeping and how does it affect teens and students?
According to the Urban Dictionary gatekeeping is “when someone uses a hobby or interest as a means of elevating themselves above others to give oneself a sense of being superior.” Gatekeeping affects students almost everywhere, especially in FUSD. Students believe they need to gatekeep or not share what they do in and outside of school so that no one else can “steal” their opportunities and to reduce competition for extracurriculars. By gatekeeping, students ensure that they have a better chance at getting a spot, and that their activities stand out more. More than anything, gatekeeping affects students that do not have access to resources or advice that will help them get into prestigious institutions. So students who have older siblings, tutors, mentors, or the resources to pay others to help advise them choose to gatekeep what they have from those who do not or cannot get the help that they do. At some point, school becomes a food chain, those who have access to resources on the top, while those who lack support are at the bottom because students at the top jealously guard what they know and do. Teens that lack these resources feel “left behind,” and like they do not belong with those who gatekeep because they are not doing half as much as those who have those resources.
Community Services Department
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., B
P.O. Box 5006, Fremont, CA 94538
510.494.4344 | [email protected] |www.fremont.gov
Return Application to:City Clerk’s Office
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., A
Fremont, CA 94538
Or to: [email protected]
Date submitted: ____April 9th, 2024________
Application for Youth Advisory Commission
Name: Kaitlyn Huynh
Address:
Birthdate: Age:17 Sex: M /F E-mail address:
Telephone: School: Grade: 11th
Demographic Information:
Ethnicity:
□ American Indian or Alaskan Native □ Chinese
□ Black or African American □ White
□ Afghan □ Vietnamese
□ Mexican □ Filipino
□ Indian □ Pakistani
□ Other Asian origin: ________________ (write-in optional) □ Other African origin: _______________ (write-in optional) □ Other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: __________ (write-in optional) Gender:
□ Male □ Prefer to self-identify
□ Female □ Prefer not to say
Language(s) Spoken: English
Why do you want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission? As I contemplate joining the Fremont Youth Advisory Commission, I find myself drawn to the profound opportunity it offers to realize my deeply held commitment to fostering inclusivity within our diverse communities. Working closely with neurodivergent youth in social playgroups and as a mentor in the Yoko's Dance Student Teacher Internship Program has provided me with profound insights into the diverse challenges faced by individuals from ages six to eighteen across the spectrum. These interactions have offered glimpses into their world, revealing not only the obstacles they confront but their remarkable resilience and unique perspectives to overcome their challenges. Through my involvement in initiatives such as establishing and spearheading a one-week dance program at the Friends of Children with Special Needs at their Fremont center to empower neurodivergent participants to embrace their unique talents, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of inclusive programs and how they serve as a therapeutic outlet for individuals. The resounding success of these endeavors has fueled my passion for inclusivity and empowerment, driving me to seek avenues to expand my impact. While I have been proactive in implementing change within my school and broader communities of Fremont and San Jose including being apart of my school’s TASC Service Team, the President and Chapter Lead of Dear Asian Youth San Jose, and a member of the Student Council, joining the Fremont YAC offers a unique platform to amplify my efforts to new heights.
Moreover, the opportunity to collaborate with motivated youth advisors ignites a profound sense of excitement within me. This collaboration represents not only a chance for learning but also an opportunity for mutual growth in a dynamic environment that transcends conventional educational boundaries. I eagerly look forward to embarking on a journey of significant personal development, whether it involves stepping outside my comfort zone, embracing new perspectives, or honing my leadership acumen. I'm particularly excited about collaborating with Emily Tang, whom I've known from our shared involvement in the Fremont Youth Symphony Orchestra a few years back (now called the Bay Philharmonic Youth Orchestra), as well as from our time as peers in middle school. Our existing connection provides a solid foundation for teamwork, and I'm keen to leverage our shared experiences to enhance our effectiveness on the council. I look forward to delving deeper into the complexities of youth advocacy and governance alongside the rest of the commission.
What is a problem Fremont teens face and propose an event to address this problem.
How would you organize and publicize this event?
Within the fabric of the Bay Area student environment, the prevailing sense of competition significantly impacts the daily lives of Fremont teens. These heightened social pressures contribute to increased stress levels among adolescents, leading to common mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Notably, at Mission San Jose High School, weighted GPAs were removed due to many students committing suicide from social pressures. Possible ways to address this problem include holding monthly mental health workshops and activities that promote well-being. These activities could range from park walks to meditational practices like yoga, all while incorporating service aspects. For example, these events could have an added element of environmental stewardship such as collecting trash. Given the desire of many motivated Fremont students to bolster their resumes with service hours despite busy schedules, these events provide an opportunity to earn hours through environmental stewardship while also de-stressing, ultimately benefiting the students. This approach would significantly boost program participation as well with an incentive to earn service hours.
Further, a possible strategy to tackle issues of student suicide and mental health issues is by introducing Helpline papers with tearable tickets in every bathroom stall across Fremont schools. These papers, strategically placed where students frequent, serve as subtle reminders of support and encouragement, offering a tangible resource for those in need during their restroom breaks. The tickets would include the contact information for the 24 hour crisis and suicide line through call or text message with instructions. These are implemented in my school, however, I do not know the extent to which these are implemented across Fremont and other cities.
Considering the range of events and ideas, it's clear that Instagram is a powerful promotional tool.
Establishing a distinct Fremont YAC Instagram page dedicated to showcasing YAC activities and progress with captivating graphics tailored to teen preferences will likely reach a larger youth audience and prove more impactful. Future social media strategies could focus on utilizing Instagram reels, which have demonstrated higher engagement among youth, alongside strategic hashtag implementation to effectively reach targeted audiences.
What are three (3) aspects of your identity that shape your outlook on life? My eleven years of competitive dance have taught me many lessons. Navigating an unforgiving atmosphere, I have learned firsthand that clinging to expectations often ends in profound disappointment.
Consequently, I've found that releasing these expectations is essential for transcending self-imposed limitations. Now, I crave this mindset in all my pursuits as I consistently find greater fulfillment and success. With the demanding commitments of a 15-hour dance schedule and academic pursuits, I've cultivated robust time management skills, essential for maximizing productivity in collaborative learning environments. Further, as the Varsity Dance Captain at my school, I've had the privilege of leading a diverse team of dancers which has taught me how to foster an environment of collaboration, support, and encouragement all while honing my leadership skills.
My formative years were deeply influenced by a stutter, another part of my identity. My words would feel wedged in the back of my throat and come out shaky and inconsistent. My journey was far from easy; it was marked by moments of ridicule and laughter, which led to feelings of distraction, dread of public speaking, and reluctance to participate. Yet, the small acts of kindness and empathy I received from my friends acted as glimmers of solace and pushed me to overcome it. I began identifying which tongue movements impeded my speech and focused on my breath control, eventually overcoming it by high school. The support from my peers has gone on to deeply influence me, reshaping my understanding of empathy and compassion, and it motivated me to extend my support to others facing challenges, particularly through my volunteering in the neurodivergent community at Friends of Children with Special Needs. I make it a point to offer support in all aspects of my life where I strive to be a reliable peer, drawing from my own experiences of needing support and understanding.
Lastly, growing up with a brother who constantly found himself at odds with our parents profoundly influenced how I perceive and engage with the world around me. Observing his inclination to prioritize emotions over solid arguments underscored for me the significance of logic and evidence. As a result, I tend to approach situations with a rational mindset, prioritizing factual evidence to guide my decisions. This upbringing has honed my ability to dissect issues objectively and engage in constructive discourse. I believe these traits could be invaluable assets within the Fremont Youth Advisory Commission, where fostering open dialogue and making well-informed decisions are crucial for addressing the needs of our community effectively.
Create and answer your own question.
Question: What initiatives can Fremont undertake to promote cultural understanding and appreciation, celebrating the rich diversity of heritage and traditions within the community? Answer:
One initiative could involve organizing cultural fairs or festivals that showcase the rich tapestry of cultures present in Fremont. These events could feature performances, exhibitions, culinary delights, trinkets from various cultural groups, providing opportunities for residents to learn, engage, and celebrate together. Incorporating small businesses into these fairs could offer a platform for local entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds to showcase their products and services, and volunteer work can play a pivotal role in promoting cultural understanding and appreciation. The council could organize volunteer programs that bring together individuals from different cultural backgrounds to work on community projects or participate in these service activities. Furthermore, the council can play a proactive role in promoting cultural education and awareness through various channels, such as workshops, seminars, and educational materials, providing opportunities for residents to learn about the histories, traditions, and contributions of different cultural groups and organizations within Fremont.
Rev 1/18 AZ
Community Services Department
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., B
P.O. Box 5006, Fremont, CA 94538
510.494.4344 | [email protected] | www.fremont.gov
Return Application to: City Clerk’s Office
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., A
Fremont, CA 94538
Or to: [email protected]
Date submitted: 4/8/2024
Application for Youth Advisory Commission
Name: Anagha Sainath
Address:
Birthdate: Age: 16 Sex: F E-mail address
Telephone: School: Grade: 10
Demographic Information:
Ethnicity:
□ American Indian or Alaskan Native □ Chinese
□ Black or African American □ White
□ Afghan □ Vietnamese
□ Mexican □ Filipino
□ Indian □ Pakistani
□ Other Asian origin: ________________ (write-in optional) □ Other African origin: _______________ (write-in optional) □ Other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: __________ (write-in optional)
Gender:
□ Male □ Prefer to self-identify
□ Female □ Prefer not to say
Language(s) Spoken: English, Tamil
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Why do you want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission?
As a dedicated Fremont teen with a heartfelt commitment to fostering positive change in my community, I am thrilled to once again apply for a seat on the Youth Advisory Commission. Over the years, I've cultivated a diverse range of experiences that have prepared me to effectively advocate for the needs of my peers and contribute meaningfully to the betterment of Fremont.
My involvement in public speaking through platforms like Speech and Debate, Model UN, and poetry open mics has honed my ability to articulate ideas and connect with audiences. Moreover, my published poetry in official publications such as the India Post and unofficial publications such as a collective chapbook underscore my ability to convey meaningful messages that resonate with diverse audiences.
In addition to my public speaking endeavors, my leadership roles as a fundraising commissioner on the student council and my leadership of Bluebird Poems, a poetry organization aimed at empowering individuals of all ages to find their voice, exemplify my dedication to fostering inclusive spaces and amplifying diverse voices.
Notably, my involvement in Bluebird Poems extends to teaching elementary school students, where I instill the importance of self-expression and creative exploration.
Furthermore, as a member of the inclusion coalition at my school, I actively engage in initiatives that promote diversity and equity within our school. Through collaborative efforts, we strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued and heard, mirroring the principles I strive to uphold on the Youth Advisory Commission.
I am genuinely passionate about inclusion as a girl who once felt her voice was not valuable or impactful enough to enact real change. Now that I am equipped with knowledge and self-confidence, I truly enjoy using my voice for the better and it is a dream of mine to be afforded the opportunity to help people like me step up and feel confident in their voice.
Reflecting on the myriad challenges facing Fremont's youth, from issues like homelessness and substance use to concerns about safety and access to opportunities, I am committed to addressing these issues head-on. Through innovative solutions and dedication to amplifying marginalized voices, I am eager to work collaboratively with fellow Commission members to enact meaningful change in our city.
What is a problem Fremont teens face and propose an event to address this problem. How would you organize and publicize this event?
One prevalent issue facing Fremont teens is a lack of guidance and clarity regarding future opportunities. The abundance of resources available can often feel overwhelming, leaving many unsure of how to navigate their options effectively. To address this, I propose organizing a "Future Opportunities Expo," aimed at providing comprehensive information and guidance across various fields of interest.
The expo would feature stalls and displays categorized by fields such as STEM, literature, visual arts, performing arts, sports, and more. Representatives from universities, vocational programs, local businesses, and community organizations would be invited to showcase opportunities available to Fremont teens. Additionally, workshops and panels led by industry professionals would offer insight into career pathways, educational pursuits, and skill development.
To organize this event, I would collaborate with local schools, community centers, and youth organizations to secure a venue and logistics support. Recruiting volunteers, particularly students, would ensure representation from diverse perspectives and a volunteer opportunity for high schoolers. Additionally, partnering with relevant stakeholders such as schools, research labs, and sports leagues would enhance the breadth and impact of the expo.
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In terms of publicizing the event, I would leverage various channels, including social media platforms, school newsletters, and local press outlets. Creating visually appealing flyers and promotional materials would attract attention and generate excitement among Fremont teens. Furthermore, reaching out to influential community members and leveraging their networks would expand the event's reach and encourage widespread participation.
What are three (3) aspects of your identity that shape your outlook on life?
Three integral aspects of my identity have a profound impact on my perspective on life: resilience, cross- cultural understanding, and leadership.
Resilience: Having overcome personal challenges and setbacks, I've cultivated resilience, allowing me to navigate adversity with grace and determination. Whether it's facing health struggles or advocating against injustice, I approach obstacles with an unwavering resolve to persevere and effect positive change.
Cross-cultural understanding: Growing up immersed in both Indian and American cultures has instilled in me a profound appreciation for diversity and empathy for individuals from all backgrounds. My experiences navigating cultural intersections have fostered a deep respect for inclusivity and a commitment to bridging divides through mutual understanding and dialogue.
Leadership: As a leader within my school's student council and my organization, Bluebird Poems, I've honed my ability to inspire and empower others toward collective action. Whether it's spearheading fundraising initiatives or fostering creative expression, I embrace leadership as a means to enact tangible change and uplift underserved communities.
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Create and answer your own question : If you could have any job in th e world and money was no issue, what would it be and why?
If financial considerations were not a factor, I would wholeheartedly pursue a career as a poet and author. As someone deeply passionate about literature and creative expression, the opportunity to devote myself fully to writing would be immensely fulfilling. Writing poetry and prose allows me to turn complex emotions and experiences into expressive language, fostering connections and understanding across diverse audiences.
Through my work as a poet and author, I aspire to inspire others, provoke introspection, and amplify marginalized voices. Writing has the power to transcend boundaries, challenge perspectives, and ignite change—a potential I would wholeheartedly embrace in my pursuit of a career devoted to literary exploration and social impact.
Anagha Sainath
[email protected]
Fremont, CA 94555
Deep curiosity and interest in human psychology and behavior. Specific interest in the role that language, logic, and arts play in how humans develop novel ideas.
EDUCATION
American High School, Fremont, CA
AUGUST 2022 - PRESENT
GPA: 3.83
Graduating: June 2026
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
American High School Inclusion Coalition - Member
NOVEMBER 2023 - PRESENT
● Selected from a wide range of applicants for creative, outside-the box ideas ● Innovate and create events such as a finals preparation de-stressing event and projects such as a spotlight on Hispanic voices for Hispanic Heritage Month Student Council - Fundraising Commissioner
AUGUST 2023 - PRESENT
● Provide innovative and engaging fundraiser ideas, planned multiple popular events, and executed them successfully, raising significant funds.
● Collaborate with fellow council members to reach compromises and come up with creative solutions to any problem faced.
Bluebird Poems - Co-Founder
JUNE 2023 - PRESENT
● Founded bluebirdpoems.com, a student-led organization that brings a sense of community among those yearning to unleash their inner poet's voice. ● Executed a successful library poetry series teaching poetry to young children.
The Tech Interactive - High School Summer Volunteer
MAY 2023 - JUL Y 2023
● Assisted with exhibits, facilitating engaging experiences for individuals of all ages to help spark their curiosity and learning.
● Conducted multiple school groups through the museum to promote STEM education in elementary schoolers.
Jayendra Kalakendra Dance Academy - Senior Student
AUGUST 2016 - PRESENT
● Cultivate discipline and creative expression through performances and consistent practice. ● Dedicate 7 years to learning Bharatanatyam, an art focused on expressive storytelling and mind-body connection.
Return Application to: City Clerk’s Office
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., A
Fremont, CA 94538
Or to: [email protected]
Date submitted: 04/6/24
Application for Youth Advisory Commission
Name: Audrey Tong-Nomoto
Address:
Birthdate: Age: 16 Sex: F E-mail address
Telephone: School: Grade: 11
Demographic Information:
Ethnicity:
□ American Indian or Alaskan Native □ Chinese
□ Black or African American □ White
□ Afghan □ Vietnamese
□ Mexican □ Filipino
□ Indian □ Pakistani
□ Other Asian origin: Japanese
□ Other African origin: _______________ (write-in optional) □ Other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: __________ (write-in optional) Gender:
□ Male □ Prefer to self-identify
□ Female □ Prefer not to say
Language(s) Spoken: English, Vietnamese, Japanese, Spanish Community Services Department
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., B
P.O. Box 5006, Fremont, CA 94538
510.494.4344 | [email protected] | www.fremont.gov
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Why do you want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission? As a Fremont teenager, many of us strive to succeed, whether to fulfill a childhood dream or make our parents proud given the sacrifices they made. Because of the generally competitive nature of most Fremont high schools, we tend to bottle up our emotions and ignore them. Sometimes, students feel that their mental health is not a top priority. Something that I’ve struggled with at my high school is truly being able to do what I enjoy because of academic pressure. However, through leadership in my school, I’ve found ways to overcome this and feel a sense of community/belonging. I would love to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission to provide more resources for students to get involved, collaborate directly with Fremont high schools to increase student engagement, let students know that they are not alone, and provide structure and leadership to our hectic daily lives.
Something that I’ve always stood by is how leadership is one of the strongest forces, bringing people of all backgrounds together. Generally, leadership begins with responsibility, hard work, and confidence to guide and encourage those around oneself. As those are important traits to have, I believe that compassion and the genuine initiative to create a positive environment are what truly inspire and guide a community to the next level. As an active member of clubs, leadership, and events at my high school, I want to spread my vision to the entire city of Fremont. Providing teens with a safe space is something that we should always strive for, and as a leader, I will ensure that all voices are heard by creating a forum for resources, collaborating with nonprofits for student leader opportunities, and hold meetings for advice and constructive criticism.
What is a problem Fremont teens face and propose an event to address this problem. How would you organize and publicize this event?
Many Fremont teens are very high achieving and stressed out due to academic pressures. Oftentimes, students prioritize success over mental health, which causes a very unhealthy mindset. Some high schools, such as , do have peer resource committees for students to discuss their feelings and emotions, but students often feel that they could spend their time doing something more “productive.” I believe that as Fremont’s Youth Advisory Commission, we must change students’ mindsets and let them know that it is okay to reach out for help when needed. Therefore, by partnering with school mental health committees, we can create “destress” events for students, which can be held at each high school. We can also hold activities at public locations such as Lake Elizabeth for an organized public movie night with fun craft activities. To organize, I would reach the leadership teams of each school and figure out coordinate dates for events such as “mental health week,” where each day is a new destress activity. As someone who will be in my school’s Leadership II class next year, I can connect with many leaders from the district and publicize them through school Instagram, Minga, and more social media platforms. For students who do not attend a Fremont public high school, I can contact places such as the Fremont Main Library, Lake Elizabeth, and more to publicize and organize a date for students to meet. Along with my other YAC members, we can plan times for the events. For example, from 5-6, we could do arts and crafts, and from 7-8, watch the movie. Student input is very important, so I’d make sure to reach out to schools to poll for interest in activities. I would publicize through social media and post flyers around public spaces in Fremont.
What are three (3) aspects of your identity that shape your outlook on life? Three aspects of my identity that shape my outlook on life include my role as a community leader, my dual heritage, and my favorite hobbies. As a student leader in many activities, such as school dance, clubs, orchestra, and my nonprofit, Dance Dynamics, aiming to provide children of all backgrounds an opportunity to dance, I believe that helping the community is extremely important when one is given the opportunity to do so. Whenever I see something that I have greater opportunities in, I believe that I should take advantage of this and help others out. As a Vietnamese-American, I Rev 1/18 AZ
make sure that I work as hard as possible for my mom who sacrificed so much to be in America. As a Vietnam War refugee, she built her life from nothing, ensuring that her children would have a stable future. Although there aren’t as many Japanese people living in the Bay Area, I always continue practicing Japanese whenever I can to communicate with my grandparents. In the future, I’d love to create connections with more Japanese people and continue embracing my heritage. Finally, my hobbies have truly guided me to where I am right now. Discovering my passion for music has led me to meet the most amazing people. From my favorite middle school teacher/conductor to lifelong friends I’ve made, orchestra shaped my idea of having a second family, always there to support and guide you. Wherever I go in life, I hope to keep my friendships and create new bonds, as fostering a community is one of the most valuable parts of life.
Create and answer your own question.
Describe a moment where you used leadership experience or skills to positively influence others, help resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
In my dance competition team, we’ve had moments where we felt like it wasn’t worth putting in effort after not getting the results that we wanted. However, I knew that we should never give up, and helped motivate my team to continue striving for our goals. I started by organizing a checklist of small, specific goals that we could easily reach and always made sure to give everyone motivating words of support. If someone was unsure about something, I would make sure to take the time to explain a move and always remain patient with compassion and understanding. As a result, we performed much better than our first competition and were able to place much higher than the first time. Overall, I learned that by setting small and achievable goals where everyone was on the same page, we could head towards our main goal together as a team.
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Community Services Department
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., B
P.O. Box 5006, Fremont, CA 94538
510.494.4344 | [email protected] | www.fremont.gov
Return Application to: City Clerk’s Office
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., A
Fremont, CA 94538
Or to: [email protected]
Date submitted: _________________________
Application for Youth Advisory Commission
Name: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________ Birthdate:_ _____________ Age:________ Sex: M / F E-mail address Telephone:_ ____________ School:_ ___________________ Grade:__________ Demographic Information:
Ethnicity:
□ American Indian or Alaskan Native □ Chinese
□ Black or African American □ White
□ Afghan □ Vietnamese
□ Mexican □ Filipino
□ Indian □ Pakistani
□ Other Asian origin: ________________ (write-in optional) □ Other African origin: _______________ (write-in optional) □ Other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: __________ (write-in optional) Gender:
□ Male □ Prefer to self-identify
□ Female □ Prefer not to say
Language(s) Spoken: ______________________
Zimeng Wang
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Why do you want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission?
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What is a problem Fremont teens face and propose an event to address this problem. How would you organize a nd publicize this event?
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What are three (3) aspects of your identity that shape your outlook on life?
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Create and answer your own question.
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Return Application to: City Clerk’s Office
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., A
Fremont, CA 94538
Or to: [email protected]
Date submitted: 03.14.2024
Application for Youth Advisory Commission
Name: Maryam Wazwaz
Address:
Birthdate: Age: 17 Sex: F E-mail address:
Telephone: School: Grade: 11
Demographic Information:
Ethnicity:
□ American Indian or Alaskan Native □ Chinese
□ Black or African American □ White
□ Afghan □ Vietnamese
□ Mexican □ Filipino
□ Indian □ Pakistani
□ Other Asian origin: ________________ (write-in optional) □ Other African origin: _______________ (write-in optional) □ Other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: __________ (write-in optional) Gender:
□ Male □ Prefer to self-identify
• Female □ Prefer not to say
Language(s) Spoken: Arabic, English
Community Services Department
3300 Capitol Ave., Bldg., B
P.O. Box 5006, Fremont, CA 94538
510.494.4344 | [email protected] | www.fremont.gov
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Why do you want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission? I want to serve on the Youth Advisory Commission because I want to be direct contributor to my community to ensure the voices of teenagers, like myself, are represented. I hope this opportunity will teach me valuable insight about the experience of working in government, for I aim to serve my community throughout college and after I graduate through politics. I want to create change and initiative that has tangible results, and this commission offers me the ability to not only express concerns that effect youth, but also actively work to assuage such issues. I want to serve as a leader for other youth, as a beacon of representation who can account to creating a difference in derelict areas. To become apart of the Youth Advisory Commission is to become responsible for the concerns of other youth and ensure that such concerns are resolved.
What is a problem Fremont teens face and propose an event to address this problem. How would you organize and publicize this event?
Teenagers today are at greater risk of depression, anxiety, and many other mental health issues all imposed through social media. Social media is designed to keep users hooked to online entertainment; today, teenagers spend at least five hours of their day scrolling online. Though many teenagers are able to admit they face an addiction to social media and that the use of social media has been damaging to their psyche, it has only become more difficult to take time off the internet and enjoy the natural world.
In order to allay these pressing issues, I suggest creating resources that can be easily assessed by all teenagers that will inform them about the repercussions of the consistent use of social media. These resources can be posted online and promoted on the internet that will give teenagers suggestions of how to limit their use to social media and healthy habits that they can practice to be able to control their addition. Additionally, I would organize monthly panel events held on Zoom to facilitate discussions with other youths about social media addiction, and how to mitigate overuse of social media. These discussions will be held on a monthly basis and will include a presentation displayed before the discussion to inform participates about what risks they may fave with excessive social media use.
What are three (3) aspects of your identity that shape your outlook on life? My identity encompasses where I am from, my religion, and my favorite hobby. I am a second generation Middle Eastern.
My culture, country, and family has shaped my perception of the world. Being immersed by Middle Eastern culture all my life has taught me the significance of age old traditions and why they are carried on and passed down for generations. My love and appreciation for my culture has made me more fascinated and interested in learning the culture and traditions of others.
Additionally, I am an artist, or at least a neophyte at art. I believe that all art is something to be celebrated an preserved and to be an artist is to appreciate the impact art has on the world. In my perspective, fulfillment is to create something tangible and that can outlive oneself. Creating art is a human experience that anyone can invest themselves, regardless of skills or capability. Art is a form of communication, eliciting an emotion that cannot be expressed through speech. I hope to continue to develop my passion for art and contribute pieces that will one day be considered significant.
The most important part of my identity is my religion, Islam. Living in the Bay Area, I have been blessed to live in an area where I can express my religious beliefs and learn about those of others. My religion has taught me the importance of kindness, generosity, and education, and I strive to implement all such teachings. I hope to demonstrate a positive representation of my religion, and to do that I must focus on my character and my actions in and out of public.
Create a question and your own answer your own question.
How have you contributed to your community thus far?
I currently attend a K-12 school and giving back to my community is something that is not only fulfilling to me, but also necessary in order for me to make a direct contributions for the betterment of my environment. In my school, I have assisted in organizing a yearly care package assembly in which all care packages that were created were donated to a homeless center. I am also a math tutor at my school, working with middle and elementary school students to assist them in homework, as well as I have participated as a Kindergarten teachers assistant. Additionally, I have volunteered at Habitat for Humanity where I worked on constructed a home for low income families. My most significant project that I am currently facilitating is my Climate Change Curriculum Project. Some of my classmates and I are devising a curriculum about climate change to teach to elementary and middle school students. This project aims to ensure that students are educated about the effects of global warming and the effect of human activity on the planet. We have already proposed our curriculum and are aiming to have presented in every elementary classroom at our school by the end of the year.
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