Applications — San Jose City Council, May 13, 2025

Submit Date: Mar 31, 2025
First Name Last Name
Email Address
Street Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone

CITY OF SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA
Boards and Commissions Application
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Please note, applications are continuously accepted to the City of San Jose Boards and Commissions. The Board or Commission you select may or may not indicate there is a vacancy. Your application will remain on file for one year from the date of submission.

During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.

Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700 (California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.

Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple * District 1
Length of Residency
6 or more years
Anushka Deshmukh
San Jose CA 95129
Home:

Anushka Deshmukh

Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Youth Commission: Submitted
Question applies to Youth Commission
Birthdate
/2008
Current Employer Address
N/A
Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Spouse's Job Title
N/A
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.

N/A N/A
Anushka Deshmukh

Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended.

Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.

Lynbrook High School: From August 2023 to expected graduation in June 2027.

List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.

I currently serve as the Director of Communications for Santa Clara County’s PeerCourt program. I’ve been in this position since July 3rd 2024 and I have been with the program since September 26th 2023. I’m also a member of District 1’s Youth Advisory Council since September 6th 2023. I’ve served as project lead twice for community events hosted by the council. Along with this, I have volunteered at TurnUp, a nonprofit organization focused on voter registration. I volunteered at the program from June 24th 2024 to December 30th 2024.

Languages Spoken
English (fluent) Marathi (fluent) Spanish (intermediate) Hindi (intermediate) Special Awards or Recognitions Received
For District 1’s Youth Advisory Council, I received the award for Responsibility at the SJYC Awards Ceremony in 2024. I’ve received the Best of SNO award twice which recognizes outstanding works of journalism throughout the nation and encompasses 492 schools. In mock trial, I’ve won the Santa Clara county competition and competed in the overall California state competition in 2024 and 2025. In 2025, I received the J. Skelly Wright for best defense pre-trialer in the state of California. Along with this, in Model United Nations, I’ve received the Outstanding Delegate award twice at VMUN and GMUNC from the General Assembly committee. In speech, I’ve placed as quarter-finalist in UC Berkeley in 2025 and finalist at Stanford in the Impromptu division in 2024.

Anushka Deshmukh

Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.

I’m interested in becoming a member of the Youth Commission since I want an opportunity to not only help the students in my community but give them a part in the decision making process and create a place for them to share their voice on issues in San Jose. There are 3 specific objectives I want to tackle, interconnection, input and impact. For interconnection, I want to connect more with youth in San Jose. Though the Instagram account currently posts updates on upcoming events, these aren’t effective if the Instagram doesn’t have enough followers. First, I’d work to increase the Instagram following by posting regularly on the account and giving updates on what commissioners are working on in each meeting. In order to interest more students, we can also use social media to advertise upcoming events.

Overall, connecting more with San Jose’s youth using social media will help them learn about the commission and spread awareness about our events. Next, the Youth Commission should have more input from San Jose’s youth for events.

Currently, there are two forms of student
input that the commission uses. They use the Budget Summit and the San Jose Youth Survey to find out what issues that students are passionate about. However, this gets a limited portion of the youth population’s input since not every student could access the Budget Summit and the San Jose Youth Survey was mostly advertised in libraries and community centers. In order to gain more student input, I want to utilize polls and comments on Instagram to learn about what events students would prefer. In-person, I would like to use YAC events to survey attendees on what events they’d like to see in the future or what issues they’d like to see addressed. Along with this, I’d want to create an email list for interested students who’d like updates on new events or a voice in the decision making process. Finally, the San Jose Youth Commission can have a greater impact by hosting more large inter-district events rather than individual smaller ones. In my experience, if one district has multiple smaller events, lots of these events don’t pan out. This leads to a waste of resources. Having more interconnected events would allow for a larger team of students to work on an event and would guarantee a more successful outcome. It would also connect students from different districts and give them the opportunity to see different perspectives from students from different backgrounds.

Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
Do you own property in the City of San José?

Yes

No
If yes, please list the addresses here.

Do you rent property in the City of San José?

Yes

No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?

Yes

No
Anushka Deshmukh
State and local law require that you abstain from participation in decisions that may affect your financial interests, including sources of income, interest in real property, personal finances or investments. In addition, if appointed, you may be required to fill out a disclosure statement which identifies certain financial interest beginning with the immediate twelve-month period prior to your appointment. Please review the scope of your board/commission in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08. Based on your best judgment, does this Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?
Yes No
If yes, please explain. Please identify any organizations, associations, corporations, or entities by which you are employed or associated that might be affected by decisions of this Board or Commission, and the positions you hold in these entities.

Question applies to Youth Commission
• Please state your current responsibilities in other organizations and groups, as well as the time commitment associated with those responsibilities (including family responsibilities).

I’m currently an attorney in my school’s Mock Trial team which will take up 2 hours a week and director of communications of Santa Clara County’s PeerCourt organization, which will take up an hour a month. I’m also a member of my Speech and Debate team, which also takes up an hour a week. Outside of these activities, I don’t have many time commitments that would interfere with the timings of YAC meetings or Youth Commission meetings.

Reference 1 Name
Aanya
Reference 1 Address
Mishra
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Anushka Deshmukh

Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Question applies to
Youth Commission
Please list your community involvement, including jobs and volunteer work.

I’m a member of San Jose District 1 Youth Advisory Council, where I’ve served as project lead for 2 events and volunteered at various community events such as voter registration drives.

My involvement in YAC has helped me grow as a leader in my community.

I’m also a director
of communications at Santa Clara County’s PeerCourt program, in which youth attorneys seek helpful interventions for first-time juvenile offenders of misdemeanors. I’ve also volunteered at TurnUp, a nonpartisan organization focused on registering voters across the U.S for 112 hours. In this, I participated in phone and text banking initiatives that focused on helping people register to vote. Finally, I’ve interned at Cupertino’s Chamber of Commerce, where I’ve helped plan community events for small businesses in Cupertino to gain connections and have a platform to advertise and sell their products.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
In one paragraph, please explain your community interests.

I’m specifically interested in the student and youth community in San Jose. Delving deeper into this, I want to increase educational opportunities for youth. Since not every student has the same privileges regarding school and work, I want to create affordable and accessible events that can help level the playing field and give insight to college and career resources that not every area gets access to. Along with this, I’m interested in increasing youth input in local government decisions. I want to explore options of creating online platforms where youth or any community member can share their concerns or ideas to benefit San Jose.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel are some of the problems facing the youth of San Jose? I believe the 2 main issues facing the youth of San Jose are a lack of transportation and limited resources. Regarding transportation, I want to increase independence amongst youth by developing transport and road safety.

Currently, there are limited options for a student to
travel without a car or parent to drive them. There isn’t much information in my community about public transport and pedestrians can face danger from unsafe drivers. This issue limits their access to community events and also hinders their independence as they grow older.

First, I want to increase awareness about existing public transport in San Jose and help improve the safety of the existing systems in order to cater to youth or people who cannot use personal vehicles. For pedestrians, I want to help increase security in student populated areas, such as schools or libraries. In District 1’s YAC, we have written a policy memorandum that has helped increase road safety around Fremont Union High School districts. I’d love to help incorporate that throughout San Jose. I believe that youth in San Jose also have a varied level of access to resources depending on their financial situation. These resources could include college, career, or alternative pathway information.This issue increases the income disparity in San Jose and gives an unfair disadvantage to people who cannot afford outside counseling.

I want to help plan events that can give access to the resources and also help connect youth to college and career professionals that can guide and mentor students who have questions about their options in school and college.

Anushka Deshmukh
Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel the priorities of the Youth Commission should be? The Youth Commission should prioritize addressing its limited power in San Jose and create effective solutions that we can reasonably carry out. Meaning, I believe it’s more important to get as many events or policies executed as possible rather than biting off more than we can chew. As to what issues the Youth Commission should prioritize, I believe addressing the youth homelessness crisis and pollution across San Jose would be important issues for the entirety of the Youth Commission to focus on. The best way to create meaningful change for these issues is by proposing San Jose wide policies since it would create the most immediate impact on our city’s youth. To clarify, I’m proposing that we have fewer district-wide proposals and rather have the youth commissioners and students from youth advisory councils across San Jose work together to create widespread policies that will create real impact across San Jose.

If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?

Yes

No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time?

Yes

No
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.

I’ve served on District 1’s Youth Advisory Council for over a year where I’ve received the opportunity to lead 2 projects and attend events such as the San Jose Budget Summit, where I could be part of the decisions on what San Jose’s city council should use their budget for that year. The Youth Advisory Council has helped me become more aware of local politics and engagement while also giving me an opportunity to showcase my leadership and give my input in local decisions.

Considering your experience and activities in business, labor, School, professional, social, Commissions, Boards, or other organizations, indicate the experience, training, knowledge and/or skills which qualify you for appointment.

I have training and experience in leadership skills due to my involvement in ASB in eighth grade and my various leadership roles within the Youth Advisory Council (YAC). I have the skills to create an effective project proposal, delegate tasks to a team, and I know all the factors necessary to plan and carry out an event. Along with this, I have experience using softwares such as Adobe and Canva in order to create graphics and promotional material.

For organizations such as the Cupertino Chamber of Commerce and YAC, I’ve created advertisements for upcoming events. This skill renders me qualified to help advertise events and teach YAC members as well. Along with this, I have financial and economic knowledge due to my experience taking courses in business and macroeconomics. This knowledge can help me be more aware of financial factors when proposing policies or events for the city.

Anushka Deshmukh
What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? The Youth Commission’s purpose is to gauge the opinions of students and young adults throughout San Jose and relay this information to San Jose’s city council or carry out events and propose policies that can address the issues that youth are currently facing. Along with this, the Youth Commission itself is a part of the San Jose government, thus it can make recommendations for local policy and decisions in favor of youth. It offers a voice in the government to youth, who can often be silenced in politics. After attending past events by the Youth Commission, they host many events highlighting opportunities for youth and also asking for their input in local decisions, such as the Youth Budget Summit.

Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.

The council should address the youth homelessness crisis in San Jose, which currently has the highest ratio of unhoused young adults in the U.S. The Youth Commission can assist in this by hosting events that give crucial resources or drafting policies that can help guarantee housing for any youth. Along with this, the council should address the pollution and littering across San Jose. We can help get youth involved in this movement by hosting clean-up events and raising awareness on clean energy solutions within San Jose. It’s important to get the next generation involved in sustainable development as they’ll be leading San Jose’s industries in the future. Along with this, the council should address educational disparity in San Jose and work to offer the same opportunities to disadvantaged youth as others in San Jose receive, especially regarding college and job opportunities.

What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? Please explain your prior experience with historic preservation, with San José’s public planning processes, and in working with City or other public agency staff.

Anushka Deshmukh
(Optional) Please upload a resume.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in your local District Specific Youth Advisory Council?

Yes\,

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you answered Yes to the previous question, what are some projects you worked on in your Youth Advisory Council?
I served as the project lead for the Career Exploration event hosted by District 1’s Youth Advisory Council. This event invited over 15 youth-led nonprofits to showcase leadership opportunities that youth could take on right now or inspire them for the future. I led a team of 5 individuals for this event. During the planning process, I wrote the project proposal, reached out and managed the attending nonprofits, created and distributed promotional material and delegated tasks to a team while finding methods to hold them accountable as well. This event ended up being a success, where over 70 students attended. This event was also the only successful event in the 2023-24 school year. Along with this, the Career Exploration team volunteered at the Youth Leadership Summit hosted by SVYCA and helped students register to vote. In the 2024-25 school year, I took on another role as project lead for the Civic Engagement event, where we’ll invite keynote speakers to discuss different ways that youth can get involved in community events and local politics. In this event, I’m leading a team of 7 people and planning on working with the current District 6 commissioner in San Jose as well. Though this event hasn’t happened yet, we’re currently contacting potential speakers and finalizing details of the project proposal.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in the Youth Commission's Special Events such as the Annual Budget Summit?

Yes

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you are not selected for your district's Commission seat, would you be interested in the Citywide Commissioner role?

Yes

Anything else you would like us to know?
My experience within San Jose’s youth advisory council and the leadership roles I’ve taken on in District 1 has rendered me qualified to take on the position as District 1 Youth Commissioner. I’ve lived in District 1 ever since elementary school and I know what issues youth are concerned about within the city. I want to help the Youth Commission take action and benefit the lives of students and kids across San Jose.

Retirement Board Questions Only
Anushka Deshmukh
Verification
By checking the box below, you agree with the following statement.

I agree that all of the information contained in my responses to the questions on this application are true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further agree that, by checking the box below and submitting this application, online or otherwise, I am affixing my digital signature to this form as of the date submitted.

I Agree
*
Anushka Deshmukh
Submit Date: Mar 20, 2025
First Name Last Name
Email Address
Street Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone

During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.

Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700 (California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.

Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple * District 3
Length of Residency
6 or more years
Edwin Sanchez
San Jose CA 95110
Mobile: Mobile:

Edwin Sanchez

Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Youth Commission: Submitted
Question applies to Youth Commission
Birthdate
/2009
Current Employer Address
Current Employer of Spouse
NA
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
NA
Spouse's Job Title
NA
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.

San Jose Youth Commision District 3 Youth Commisioner
Edwin Sanchez

Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended.

Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.

Currently a Sophomore at Hillbrook High School. Class of 2027 List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.

Lead volunteer the litter pick-up events in my neighborhood; working the City of San Jose's BeautifySJ program. Was a volunteer with the Santa Maria Urban Ministry. Year 1 district 3 youth commissioner.

Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
Got an award for doing 75 hours of volunteer community service. I have been rewarded for being a leading youth in my district (Best Youth Leader) by the Downtowners.

Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.

As a young community leader in my Washington community, I feel that I can provide important insight from the perspective a young Hispanic man. I want to give a voice to the youth in my Council District 3. I want to ensure that our elected officials are held accountable to their promises by listening to the ideas and needs of the people of my generation.

Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
I attend and participate in my Guadalupe Washington Neighborhood Association. Ever since I was a young child I have always had this strong sense of civic duty and that you can only lead by example. I want to be that example to the youth in my council district. I am part of the founding class at the school that I am attending so I feel an obligation to set the example.

Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes No
If yes, please list the addresses here.

NA
Edwin Sanchez

Do you rent property in the City of San José?
Yes No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?
Yes No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?
Yes No
State and local law require that you abstain from participation in decisions that may affect your financial interests, including sources of income, interest in real property, personal finances or investments. In addition, if appointed, you may be required to fill out a disclosure statement which identifies certain financial interest beginning with the immediate twelve-month period prior to your appointment. Please review the scope of your board/commission in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08. Based on your best judgment, does this Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?
Yes No
If yes, please explain. Please identify any organizations, associations, corporations, or entities by which you are employed or associated that might be affected by decisions of this Board or Commission, and the positions you hold in these entities.

No.

I have a responsibility to my family as a son and older brother. Family always comes first. My responsibilties also include being a student. Education is first and foremost a priority. I also lead a monthly litter pick-up effort in my Washington neighborhood. I work with the City (BeautifySJ) in beautifying my community. I attend church regularly. This is an important aspect of my spiritual life.

Reference 1 Name
Marisol Ornelas
Reference 1 Address
Edwin Sanchez

Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Emily Terada
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Question applies to Youth Commission
Please list your community involvement, including jobs and volunteer work. -Lead organizer of the litter pick-ups in the Washington community -Student Ambassador at Hillbrook High School -District 3 youth commisioner
Question applies to Youth Commission
In one paragraph, please explain your community interests.

I am interested in having a clean and safe community where both young and are senior neighbors enjoy living. I want an area where families can enjoy each other's company and that there is always a clean line of communication with our City Hall. I want to end homelessness and helping the unhoused and provide them needed resources, especially for the unhoused youth in our City.

Question applies to Youth Commission
What do you feel are some of the problems facing the youth of San Jose? Drugs. Gang violence, homelessness,
Question applies to Youth Commission
What do you feel the priorities of the Youth Commission should be? That elected officials be held accountable for their promises. That they find a way for the youth voices be heard. That leadership opportunities be available to disadvantaged and underprivileged youth.Edwin Sanchez

If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?

Yes

No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time?

Yes

No
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.

Yes, I have a lot of experience. I have been part of all of the meetings, and I haven't missed one. I have also been able to guide a youth advisory council and make plans with others.

The fact that I am proactive in both my school and community, and that I have desire to give back to the community, I believe make me qualified for this position.

What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? To be the voice of the youth of my district and to help many of the problems that are happening in my community and over the well-being of all youth.

Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.
-homelessness -police that don't acknowledge the circumstances of the people living there. - mental health
What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? NA
Please explain your prior experience with historic preservation, with San José’s public planning processes, and in working with City or other public agency staff.

NA
Edwin Sanchez
(Optional) Please upload a resume.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in your local District Specific Youth Advisory Council?

Yes\,

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you answered Yes to the previous question, what are some projects you worked on in your Youth Advisory Council?
I have worked on community clean-ups. I have been part of an AD HOC for the environment Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in the Youth Commission's Special Events such as the Annual Budget Summit?

Yes

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you are not selected for your district's Commission seat, would you be interested in the Citywide Commissioner role?

Anything else you would like us to know?
No
Retirement Board Questions Only
Edwin Sanchez
Verification
By checking the box below, you agree with the following statement.

I Agree
*
Edwin Sanchez
Submit Date: Apr 02, 2025
First Name Last Name
Email Address
Street Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone

During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.

Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700 (California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.

Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple * District 4
Length of Residency
None Selected
Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi
San Jose CA 95132
Mobile:

Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi

Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Youth Commission: Submitted
Question applies to Youth Commission
Birthdate
/2007
Current Employer Address
N/A
Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Spouse's Job Title
N/A
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.

N/A N/A
Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi

Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended.

Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.

Piedmont Hills High School, Small Business Program, August 2022 - Jun 2026 (graduation date). Mission College (Dual Enrollment) - Women's Psychology (2024), Python Programming (2024), and UI Design (2024).

List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.

Languages Spoken
Tamil, Telugu, English
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
Award of Inclusivity (2023) - Youth Commission Award of Teamwork (2024) - Youth Commission 1st place - Indian Classical Dance competition (2x: 2022, 2023) Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.

Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes No
If yes, please list the addresses here.

Do you rent property in the City of San José?
Yes No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?
Yes No
Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi

Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?

Yes

No
State and local law require that you abstain from participation in decisions that may affect your financial interests, including sources of income, interest in real property, personal finances or investments.

In addition, if appointed,
you may be required to fill out a disclosure statement which identifies certain financial interest beginning with the immediate twelve-month period prior to your appointment.

Please review the scope of your board/commission
in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08.

Based on your best judgment, does this
Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?

Yes

No
If yes, please explain.

Please identify any organizations, associations,
corporations, or entities by which you are employed or associated that might be affected by decisions of this Board or Commission, and the positions you hold in these entities.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
• Please state your current responsibilities in other organizations and groups, as well as the time commitment associated with those responsibilities (including family responsibilities).

1. Co-Executive Director – Learn4Justice (5.5 hours/week) Oversee national initiatives aimed at expanding educational access. Coordinate with chapter leaders to implement programs and outreach efforts. Manage partnerships and strategic planning to ensure long-term sustainability. Maintain a good team climate to ensure open communications 2. Lead of a Team – Insane Ink (4 hours/week) Direct a team within our student-run business, overseeing product development, marketing strategies, and operational efficiency. Implement workflow improvements to enhance productivity and order fulfillment. 3. Volunteer Experience Intern (soon to be Compliance Specialist) – YIP (3 hours/week) Facilitate onboarding for new volunteers, having successfully onboarded over 100 employees (approximate) Implement engagement strategies to create an inclusive and effective volunteer experience. 4. Co- President – Caterpillar (3 hours/week) Lead initiatives addressing educational inequities by organizing events and resource-sharing opportunities. Work with school administrators to advocate for curriculum improvements and better student support. 5. District 4 Youth Advisory Council Member - Social/Racial Equity Team Lead (3 hours/week) Draft and advocate for policy proposals that address local issues. Organize large-scale events to engage youth in civic participation and decision-making. Currently working on an event to promote racial equity and a policy to combat the same 6. Volunteer - UC Berkeley, Lawrence Hall of Science
Reference 1 Name
Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Question applies to
Youth Commission
Please list your community involvement, including jobs and volunteer work.

School-Based Volunteering School Beautification Day – Assisted in maintaining and improving the school environment through landscaping, cleaning, and organizational tasks.

Litter Pick-Up Initiative – Participated in school-wide efforts to keep the campus clean and promote environmental responsibility. STEM & Education Volunteering Science Kit Preparation for Kids – Assembled hands-on science kits designed to make STEM education more accessible and engaging for young learners. Volunteer Teacher – Ruskin Elementary After-School Science Program Teach 35 elementary students fundamental science concepts through interactive lessons and experiments. Help foster curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM subjects in younger students. Volunteer at Lawrence Hall of Science, UC Berkeley Assist in science outreach programs, helping children and families engage with hands-on STEM activities. Support staff in organizing and facilitating workshops to make science education fun and accessible.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
In one paragraph, please explain your community interests.

My community interests center around education equity, youth engagement, and environmental sustainability. I am passionate about making STEM education more accessible, as seen in my volunteer work at Ruskin Elementary and the Lawrence Hall of Science, where I teach and prepare hands-on science kits for kids. I also believe in fostering civic participation among youth, which I have pursued through my role in the District 4 Youth Advisory Council, where I advocate for policies that directly impact students and young leaders. Additionally, I am committed to environmental initiatives, actively participating in school beautification days and litter clean-up efforts to promote sustainability. My goal is to continue working on initiatives that empower young people, bridge educational gaps, and create a cleaner, more engaged community.

Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi
Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel are some of the problems facing the youth of San Jose? Youth in San Jose face several challenges, including educational inequities, lack of civic engagement opportunities, and mental health struggles. Many students, particularly in underfunded schools, lack access to quality resources, STEM programs, and college/career readiness support, creating disparities in educational outcomes. Additionally, youth voices are often overlooked in decision-making, making it difficult for young people to engage in policies that directly affect them. More mentorship programs and youth leadership opportunities are needed to bridge this gap. Mental health is another critical issue, with many students experiencing high levels of stress due to academic pressure, financial struggles, and social challenges, yet facing limited access to affordable counseling services.

Lastly, environmental concerns, such as lack of green spaces and rising pollution, also impact youth well-being. Addressing these issues requires stronger community initiatives, better resource allocation, and active youth involvement in policymaking to create a more equitable and supportive environment for young people in San Jose.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel the priorities of the Youth Commission should be? The top priority of the Youth Commission should be expanding youth civic engagement and representation in local decision-making. Many young people in San Jose lack awareness of how policies impact them or feel disconnected from government processes, leading to low participation in civic affairs. The Youth Commission should work to create more accessible platforms for youth to voice their concerns, participate in policymaking, and influence community decisions.

If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?

Yes

No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time?

Yes

No
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.

I have extensive experience serving on youth advisory councils and leadership boards that focus on policymaking, community engagement, and advocacy. As a District 4 Youth Advisory Council (D4YAC) member, I have written and advocated for over five policy proposals, organized four
large-scale community events, and worked directly with city officials to address youth concerns. My leadership in the Social/Racial Equity team, where I was recognized for outstanding contributions, has given me experience in drafting equitable policies, engaging diverse stakeholders, and ensuring youth perspectives are represented in local government.

Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi
What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in your local District Specific Youth Advisory Council?

Yes\,

Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi
(Optional) Please upload a resume.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you answered Yes to the previous question, what are some projects you worked on in your Youth Advisory Council?
I started my journey with a policy advocating for students with disabilities during my freshman year; The policy aimed to make the education system a little fairer for those who seemed to be caged all
day away from their peers. The policy ended up getting approved by the Board, but didn't make it in time for the Councilmember approval. I also helped draft a policy to add tech waste collection bins around our community in places like the library and parks. Sophomore year, I led the youth highlights section of the weekly Councilmember newsletter where I interviewed and wrote about amazing teens in San Jose. I got the chance to write about 6 newsletters and interviewed over 10 individuals! I also finished up a second rendition of my policy for students with disabilities, but shifted focus to a Business equity event, which my lead at the time wanted to prioritize. Innovate4Good was successful, with over 20 individuals who had the chance to pitch their business idea to compete for a title.

This year, I'm working on a policy to mitigate racial bias and make racial equity knowledge more accessible. We're currently also planning for an event called "How to be an antiracist" which aims to teach teens to advocate for their rights and race.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in the Youth Commission's Special Events such as the Annual Budget Summit?

Yes

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you are not selected for your district's Commission seat, would you be interested in the Citywide Commissioner role?

Yes

Anything else you would like us to know?
Retirement Board Questions Only
Verification
Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi
By checking the box below, you agree with the following statement.

I Agree
*
Akshadha Babu Chakravarthi
Submit Date: Mar 31, 2025
First Name Last Name
Email Address
Street Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone

During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.

Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700 (California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.

Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple * District 5
Length of Residency
6 or more years
Dali Guerrero Fernandez
san jose CA 95127
Home:

Dali Guerrero Fernandez

Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Youth Commission: Submitted
Question applies to Youth Commission
Birthdate
/2006
Current Employer Address
N/A
Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Spouse's Job Title
N/A
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.

N/A N/A
Dali Guerrero Fernandez

Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended.

Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.

De Anza College, 09/2024-Present, Pursuing Political Science Degree for Transfer Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School, 08/2020-07/2024, HS Diploma List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.
- De Anza Student Government Administration Committee, Intern, Cupertino, 09/2024- Present - CITY OF SAN JOSE, CITY COUNCIL, OFFICE OF COUNCILMEMBER PETER ORTIZ, San Jose, Intern 01/2023- 12/2024 -CITY OF SAN JOSE, CITY COUNCIL, OFFICE OF COUNCILMEMBER CARRASCO, San Jose, CA, Intern 09/2021– 12/2022 -Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, NextGen Leadership Program Scholar - Washington, D.C. 07/2023 -Hispanic National Bar Foundation Scholar - Washington, D.C. | Georgetown University 07/2022 -Chicano Leader Youth Leadership Project, Inc. Attendee - University of California, Berkley 06/2022
Languages Spoken
Spanish and English
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
-Regent’s and Chancellor Scholar for UCLA and UC Berkeley -Recipient for the Alum Rock Counseling Center Youth Inspiration Award -Panelist for the Association of California School Administrators Regional Conference -Co-Moderator of Silicon Valley STEM Leadership & The Women Who Power It Panel
Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.

I want to become a member of the Youth Commission in San Jose because I have first hand seen how the needs of East San Jose residents, specifically youth, are sometimes overlooked.

This is for many reasons, some do not know how to voice their opinion, and others are simply not informed that we have District offices and people they can reach out to about their concerns. I want to change this by providing more resources and information to my community. I also want to provide more recreational activities for youth. I feel like in this era of technology and social media, youth need more events and activities to keep them busy that are cost effective. Wether it be through music or games, I believe we can work with the city to carry this out because I have been able to do this as my time as an intern for San Jose City Council, District 5 in previous years!
Dali Guerrero Fernandez

Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
My entire high school journey I have dedicated myself to improving my East Side community.

Throughout high school I was able to Intern with the District 5 office in which I was able to connect with my neighbors through community litter pick ups, town halls, or community events. Recently, I have been able to support my community through my digital platform on TikTok. I go around East San Jose and film promotional videos for small East San Jose businesses. Luckily, this has been very successful and many small business have seen an improve in sales. This is something I wish to continue in the long run.

Do you own property in the City of San José?

Yes

No
If yes, please list the addresses here.

Do you rent property in the City of San José?

Yes

No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?

Yes

Please review the scope of your board/commission
in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08.

Based on your best judgment, does this
Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?

Yes

No
If yes, please explain.

Dali Guerrero Fernandez
Question applies to Youth Commission
• Please state your current responsibilities in other organizations and groups, as well as the time commitment associated with those responsibilities (including family responsibilities).

I will be starting a new job soon but I work early mornings so It would not interfere with my schedule here. I also have committee meetings for my college student government which are on Wednesdays from 2-3PM weekly.

Reference 1 Name
Ruth Silver Taube
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Angel Moreno
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Question applies to Youth Commission
Please list your community involvement, including jobs and volunteer work. - Volunteered with Our City Forest, Somos Mayfair, LUNA, and BeaitfySJ - Interned from 2021-2024 for two different City Council Council Members: CM Carrasco and CM Ortiz - Worked full time throughout high school at Metro by T-Mobile -High School Student Government -President of high school debate club -Chief of Staff for student ran newspaper in Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School
Dali Guerrero Fernandez

Question applies to
Youth Commission
In one paragraph, please explain your community interests.

There are so many aspects of my East San Jose community that interest me the most. The rich culture, the people and the history that is rooted in our streets. East San Jose is home to history and change. At the moment, there are also many issues affecting our community especially with our current administration. A lot of our immigrant and Latinx community do not feel safe going outside due to fear of ICE. I want to inform our community by providing Know Your Rights workshops at community centers to keep our East Side community safe and informed.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel are some of the problems facing the youth of San Jose? I would say that there are a couple of pressing issues that are affecting the youth of San Jose. The first one would be mental health challenges. We have seen how overtime and with the presence of technology, mental health has begun declining for the youth in San Jose and all over the world. This can be due to many factors but one big one being social media and the effects that apps like TikTok and Instagram have on our Youth. Another issue that's affecting our San Jose Youth is violence and crime. Just last month we witnessed how a 15- year old boy was stabbed in Santana Row, these are issues that are affecting youth throughout the valley. I believe that we can work with San Joses Gang Prevention team to work on ways to inform and educate our youth about the risks that come with gangs, falling into peer pressure, substance abuse and violence.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel the priorities of the Youth Commission should be? I would say that this is pretty similar to my response above. Some of the priorities that the Youth Commission should prioritize is expanding programs on mental health resources in order to ensure that our youth is physically and mentally okay. Youth safety and gang prevention is also a big one that I feel should be a priority.

Lastly expanding educational and
learning opportunities for youth. I was one of those students who was always hungry to learn more but never had the proper resources on what programs were available. Thanks to programs by the ARUSD, I was able to grow academically, which is what every youth should have access to.

If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?

Yes

No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time?

Yes

No
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.

No Experience on Commissions/Boards
Dali Guerrero Fernandez
Considering your experience and activities in business, labor, School, professional, social, Commissions, Boards, or other organizations, indicate the experience, training, knowledge and/or skills which qualify you for appointment.

I would say that I have extensive experience in public service, policy research, and community engagement, which qualify me for appointment to the Youth Commission! As an Intern for San Jose City Councilmember Peter Ortiz, I have worked on town halls, conducting community outreach to over 5,000 residents, and assisted in policy research and neighborhood development initiatives!
My leadership also extends to statewide and national
programs, including the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute's NextGen Leadership Program, where I met with legislators like Senator Alex Padilla to advocate for solutions on issues that were affecting our youth. I also participated in the Hispanic National Bar Foundation Summer Law Institute which has strengthened my understanding of governance and advocacy. These experiences, along with my involvement in De Anza College’s student government, have provided me with strong public speaking and community organizing skills, that I believe make me a well-qualified candidate for the Youth Commission.

What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? What I know so far is that the purpose of the youth commission is to encourage youth to be civically engaged locally and city wide.

Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.
-Affordable housing -Decriminalizing unhoused people -Youth development and educational opportunities
What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? The purpose of historic preservation in San Jose is to protect and conserve the rich culture heritage that the city has. Historic preservation makes sure that significant landmarks and neighborhoods reflect the city's history and ensure that we are not eliminating history, this also ties in with the responsibilities of the Historic Landmarks Commission. Their role is to advise the City Council and Planning Department is to review development proposals that affect historic properties, as well as advocating for restoration efforts.

Please explain your prior experience with historic preservation, with San José’s public planning processes, and in working with City or other public agency staff.

I have worked with the City during my time as an Intern for San Jose City Council, District 5.

Whether it was through events like town halls and community events or planning meetings for events like Cinco de Mayo or Die de Independencia, I have had experience working alongside the city on various circumstances.

Dali Guerrero Fernandez
(Optional) Please upload a resume.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in your local District Specific Youth Advisory Council?

No\,

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you are not selected for your district's Commission seat, would you be interested in the Citywide Commissioner role?

Yes

Anything else you would like us to know?
The reason as to why I have not been extremely involved in De Anza is because I enrolled late due to withdrawing from UCLA in the fall.

Retirement Board Questions Only
Dali Guerrero Fernandez
Verification
By checking the box below, you agree with the following statement.

I Agree
*
Dali Guerrero Fernandez
Dali Y. Guerrero Fernández
San Jose, California | |

EDUCATION
De Anza College - Cupertino, CA Class of 2026 • Political Science and International Relations Major
• De Anza Student Government: Administration and Programs Committee Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School - San Jose, CA Class of 2024 • High School Diploma
• GPA: 4.13
AWARDS
• Regent’s and Chancellor Scholar for UCLA and UC Berkeley • Recipient for the Alum Rock Counseling Center Youth Inspiration Award • Panelist for the Association of California School Administrators Regional Conference • Co-Moderator of Silicon Valley STEM Leadership & The Women Who Power It Panel

WORK EXPERIENCE
CITY OF SAN JOSE, CITY COUNCIL, OFFICE OF COUNCILMEMBER PETER ORTIZ - San Jose, CA Senior Intern 01/2023- 12/2024
• Community outreach to over 5,000+ community residents • Lead town halls and community projects
• Policy Research
• Aiding in the construction of neighborhood associations and expanding business opportunities CITY OF SAN JOSE, CITY COUNCIL, OFFICE OF COUNCILMEMBER CARRASCO - San Jose, CA Intern 09/2021– 12/2022
• Researched and wrote articles on a monthly basis for a monthly newsletter that reached over 7,000+ people • Worked throughout the pandemic to ensure access to Covid-19 testing and vaccination was available in East San Jose
• Organized and ran events that ensured quality programming was not overlooked within SJ District 5, thereby providing families with greater opportunities and resources. • Partnered with local businesses, organizations, and non-profits to bring resources and treatment to residents.

Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, NextGen Leadership Program - Washington, D.C. 07/2023 Alumni
• Joined 40 other students from across the country for a week of discussions, learning, and congressional meetings • Met with members of Congress like Senator Alex Padilla and Congressman Raul Ruiz to discuss legislative priorities in California and the importance of youth involvement Hispanic National Bar Foundation - Washington, D.C. | Georgetown University 07/2022 Scholar
• Was selected as an HNBF scholar (Program has a 4% acceptance rate) for the 2022 Summer Law Institute Program. Through this, we were provided with a week-long immersion in DC and Georgetown University; with the mission of helping Hispanics pursue a career in the law field • Presented a Mock Trial to judges at the District of Columbia Federal Court with judges such as Federal Judge Raquel Trabal and Judge Rudolph Contreras - from which we won the verdict to • Briefly met with the Attorney General of the United States of America at the Department of Justice Chicano Leader Youth Leadership Project, Inc. - University of California, Berkley 06/2022 Scholar
• The Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project, Inc. (CLYLP) was founded in 1982 to prepare students to participate in California’s economic, social, and political development. • I was selected to attend both CLYLP Bay Area Institute, as well as CLYLP State Leadership Conference (a more competitive pool as statewide), which I could not participate in due to time-framing conflict. • Learned valuable skills around community engagement and involvement

K E Y S K I L LS
TECHNICAL: Google Apps (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Sites, Forms), Canva, and Adobe Spark PROFESSIONAL: Public Speaking, Writing, Graphic Design, and Fluent in Spanish and English (Read, Write and Speak)

Submit Date: Mar 29, 2025
First Name Last Name
Email Address
Street Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone

During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.

Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700 (California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.

Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple * District 6
Length of Residency
6 or more years
Fiona Canfield
San Jose CA 95125
Mobile:

Fiona Canﬁeld

Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Youth Commission: Submitted
Question applies to Youth Commission
Birthdate
/2010
Current Employer Address
N/A
Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Spouse's Job Title
N/A
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.

N/A N/A
Fiona Canﬁeld

Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended.

Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.

I attend Notre Dame San Jose Center for Women's Leadership. Expected graduation Spring of 2028.

List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.

N/A
Languages Spoken
Spanish, English, and German
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
Recipient of Attainment Award and Pursuit of Bilingualism Certificate at River Glen School.

Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.

I want to be a Youth Commissioner because I care about making a positive impact in my community. My main priority is making sure youth are aware of the support that is available to them. There is no use in having mental health resources, political engagement opportunities, or places to help make an impact on the environment if nobody is aware of them. I want to help people and make our city a better place, which also starts with building a community where people, especially youth, can band together for a common goal.

Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
I’m super passionate and excited about this opportunity. I work hard, manage my time well, and genuinely care about improving our city. I’d love the chance to bring my ideas and energy to the Youth Commission.

Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes No
Fiona Canﬁeld

If yes, please list the addresses here.

Do you rent property in the City of San José?

Yes

No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?

Yes

Please review the scope of your board/commission
in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08.

Based on your best judgment, does this
Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?

Yes

No
If yes, please explain.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
• Please state your current responsibilities in other organizations and groups, as well as the time commitment associated with those responsibilities (including family responsibilities).

Mock Trial Team (Bailiff & Witness): 2 meetings per week in the winter Notre Dame Varsity Flag Football: Daily Commitment in the Fall Theater Business & Marketing Leader: Around 1 hour weekly commitment out of school River Glen School Volunteer: Minimal out-of-school commitment Notre Dame San Jose Spring Musical: 2-day-per-week commitment in the spring.

Reference 1 Name
Karen Canfield
Fiona Canﬁeld
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Question applies to Youth Commission
Please list your community involvement, including jobs and volunteer work.

Mock Trial - Public speaking, legal knowledge, teamwork Varsity Flag Football - Leadership, discipline, and collaboration Theater Business & Marketing - Event management, marketing, and finance River Glen School Volunteer - Education and youth mentorship Notre Dame San Jose Spring Musical - Performance, teamwork, and time management Question applies to Youth Commission
In one paragraph, please explain your community interests.

I care a lot about making my community stronger, especially by getting more young people involved in leadership, education, and sustainability. I think youth voices matter, and we should have more chances to step up and make a real impact. Through volunteering, I’ve seen how mentorship can help students feel more confident, and I want to keep doing this on a broader scale. I’m also really passionate about environmental issues and finding ways to make our city more sustainable. I want to help create a community where youth feel supported and heard.

Question applies to Youth Commission
What do you feel are some of the problems facing the youth of San Jose? A lot of young people feel like they don’t have a voice in decisions that affect them. There are also major issues like mental health, lack of access to resources, and environmental concerns that need more attention. I want to help close the gap between youth and city leadership, making sure our priorities are heard and acted on.

Fiona Canﬁeld

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel the priorities of the Youth Commission should be? The priorities of the Youth Commission should be giving young people more ways to get involved in government, such as workshops or outreach. Also, they should push for environmental sustainability in city policies to lessen our city's environmental impact on the world. They should also advocate for more prevalent mental health resources for youth.

Finally, a large priority should be strengthening community engagement and education programs.

If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?

Yes

No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time?

Yes

No
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.

I haven’t served on a formal commission yet, but I’ve gained a ton of experience in leadership through mock trial, theater business and marketing, and volunteer work. I know how to work on a team, advocate for important issues, and bring new ideas.

I’ve built strong skills through my involvement in mock trial, theater business and marketing, flag football, volunteer work, and leadership roles. These experiences have helped me develop public speaking, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, and leadership skills, all of which would make me a strong addition to the Youth Commission.

What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? The Youth Commission is a Commission made of youth for the youth. They make sure young people have a voice in local government. It helps bring attention to the issues we actually care about. It is youth advocating for issues that are important to them and their community.

Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.

Environmental Sustainability - We need to focus on real solutions to climate change and the impact of our city, especially our youth. Youth Engagement & Representation - More young people should have a say in and be aware of city decisions. Workshops and guest speakers to inform youth of the government opportunities available to them, as well as general outreach. Mental Health Resources - There should be better access to support for youth.

More places to reach out, and increased awareness of the support available to youth.

Fiona Canﬁeld
What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? Please explain your prior experience with historic preservation, with San José’s public planning processes, and in working with City or other public agency staff.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in your local District Specific Youth Advisory Council?

No\,

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you answered Yes to the previous question, what are some projects you worked on in your Youth Advisory Council?
Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in the Youth Commission's Special Events such as the Annual Budget Summit?
None Selected
Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you are not selected for your district's Commission seat, would you be interested in the Citywide Commissioner role?
None Selected
Fiona Canﬁeld
(Optional) Please upload a resume.

Anything else you would like us to know?
I’m grateful for the opportunity to apply and excited about the chance to make a real impact.

I’m dedicated, hardworking, and always looking for ways to grow, especially as a leader.

Thank you for your time and consideration!
Retirement Board Questions Only
Verification
By checking the box below, you agree with the following statement.

I Agree
*
Fiona Canﬁeld
| |

EDUCATION
Notre Dame San Jose, San Jose, CA
GPA: 4.57, Recipient of Attainment Award, Pursuit of Bilingualism Certificate, and on pace to
Receive Seal of Biliteracy for Spanish

EXPERIENCE
Mock Trial, Notre Dame San Jose, Member, Oct. 2024 - Present * Collaborate with legal team as key witness to refine case theory, anticipating opposing arguments and enhancing trial performance * Develop public speaking and argumentation skills, presenting testimony confidently
* Call court to order as bailiff, administering oaths for witnesses, exemplifying professionalism and attention to legal procedures * Demonstrate leadership and organizational skills by overseeing trial logistics and coordinating with team members

Purple Properties, Real Estate Assistant, San Jose, CA, Jun. 2024 - Present * Prepare real estate forms and documents
* Assist at open houses and obtain feedback from visitors * Collaborate with opening and closing open houses

River Glen School, Volunteer, San Jose, CA, Aug. 2023 - Nov. 2024 * Volunteered in multiple kindergarten classrooms
* Taught over 50 kids writing and reading in both Spanish and English * Engaged students who needed extra assistance

LEADERSHIP & ACTIVITIES
Law Club, Notre Dame San Jose, Member, Aug. 2024 - Present * Discuss relevant terms and topics, applying law to everyday life * Watch law-related TV shows and analyze key law elements

Theater Business and Marketing, Notre Dame San Jose, Co-head, Aug. 2024 - Present
* Lead promotional campaigns for school theater productions, increasing audience engagement
* Calculate logistics, build the program, and develop leadership as Co-Head of Programs
* Oversee marketing strategies, including social media, posters, and community outreach

Varsity Flag Football, Notre Dame San Jose, Member, Aug. 2024 - Present * Act as Center for Varsity Flag Football Team
* Develop teamwork, collaboration, and leadership skills

SKILLS & INTERESTS

Skills: Trilingual (English, Spanish & German), Public Speaking & Communication
Interests: Acting in Productions, Reading novels, Remote Wilderness Camping, Jiu-Jitsu

Submit Date: Mar 30, 2025
First Name Last Name
Email Address
Street Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone

During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.

Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700 (California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.

Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple * District 7
Length of Residency
6 or more years
David Huynh
San Jose CA 95125
Mobile:

David Huynh

Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Youth Commission: Submitted
Question applies to Youth Commission
Birthdate
/2008
Current Employer Address
Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Spouse's Job Title
N/A
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.

Philip Nguyen
Community Engagement
Team (Part-Time)
David Huynh

Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended.

Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.

Willow Glen High School - High School Diploma (2023-2026, 4.0 U/W & 4.588 W GPA).

Mission College - Web Development & Design 1 (Spring 2024). DeAnza College - Asian Americans and Racism (Winter 2025).

List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.

District 7 Youth Advisory Councilmember, San Jose Youth Commission (March 2024 - Present). District 2 Youth Commissioner, Santa Clara County Youth Task Force (September 2024 - Present). District 6 Youth Commissioner, Valley Water Youth Commission (September 2024 - Present).

Languages Spoken
English and Vietnamese
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
City of San Jose Commendation: Received by the D7YAC for involvement in the development and execution of the Creative Futures Fair. | 3x Published Writer in TeenInk Magazine. | Superior Award in NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing. | National First Generation Recognition by College Board. | Contest Finalist (Top ~150/8000) in New York Times Student Contest. | Regional Gold Key in Flash Fiction by Scholastic Arts and Writing. | SEEDS Mentee Recognition: Received for participation in VAR summer program and completion of a final showcase project.

Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.

My deep interest in serving on the San Jose Youth Commission stems from my participation in the District 7 Youth Advisory Council. Being a part of the council for over a year, I have engaged in the development and execution of many projects, ranging from career-related initiatives to researching the success of restorative arts diversion programs under former Commissioner Luong. As a witness to the power of youth engagement on local decision- making, I am so inspired to take initiative and apply to be a part of this wonderful group of changemakers that dedicates so much energy to uplifting the youth. I want to be a voice and advocate for them. Youth input and opinions are often viewed as unwarranted by older folks due to our young age, but youth are competent individuals capable of delivering insightful feedback about the city. If given the opportunity, I would work toward increasing youth engagement (through YACs and Budget Summit), delivering recommendations to the City Council on city-related matters (homelessness and drug use), and developing several projects centered on youth-related interests (career pathways and creative expression).

David Huynh

Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
Though I am involved in other youth groups, I am EXTREMELY passionate about and willing to devote my time to serving on the San José Youth Commission. As an active member of the District 7 Youth Advisory Council, I have managed to fulfill my responsibilities as a YAC member while being involved in other activities. Likewise, as a prospective Commissioner, I believe I will be able to manage my time wisely, participate actively in Commission meetings with my full attention, and communicate with fellow Commissioners and Megan (Commission liaison) in a timely manner.

Please refer to my resume for additional information about my experiences! My experience with the D7YAC is not in my resume because it is mentioned in many parts of this application, as I used my resume to highlight experiences briefly mentioned here.

Do you own property in the City of San José?

Yes

No
If yes, please list the addresses here.

Do you rent property in the City of San José?

Yes

No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?

Yes

No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?

Yes

Please review the scope of your board/commission
in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08.

Based on your best judgment, does this
Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?

Yes

No
If yes, please explain.

David Huynh
Question applies to Youth Commission
• Please state your current responsibilities in other organizations and groups, as well as the time commitment associated with those responsibilities (including family responsibilities).

Santa Clara County Youth Task Force, Commissioner: 1-2hr/wk. Valley Water Youth Commission, Commissioner: 1-2hr/wk. Vietnamese American Roundtable, Community Engagement Team: 1-2hr/wk. Mock Trial (Fall Semester): 4hr/wk. Badminton (Spring Semester): 10hr/wk. All other school-related activities only consume my time when I am at school, not elsewhere.

Reference 1 Name
Peter Vu
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Melissa Luu
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
David Huynh

Question applies to
Youth Commission
Please list your community involvement, including jobs and volunteer work.

District 7 Youth Advisory Council: Engaged in several YAC initiatives, such as the annual Citywide Budget Summit and the development and execution of the Creative Futures Fair, for thousands of youth in San José and District 7. Attend in-person and virtual meetings regularly. | Vietnamese American Roundtable, Community Engagement Intern: Community outreach, cultural activities, and tabling at local festivals (LNY:SJ, Story Road Night Market) to share health equity resources (free vaccination shots and blood pressure monitors). Ideated and designed VAR-a-thon (election live-stream initiative to mobilize voters) and website redesign. Involved in the outreach, marketing, and designing of Com Gia Dinh (a cultural program to highlight family recipes in a cookbook). | Sacred Heart Community Service, Youth Action Committee: Dedicated over 75 hours to bagging fruits and vegetables, organizing, restocking, and recycling current inventory, distributing produce to the families we serve, and managing foodstuff and clothes donations. Guided over 15 new high school volunteers in bagging poultry efficiently. | National Honors Society, Vice President: Oversee event planning, organization logistics, and administrator-student communications at Willow Glen High School. Spearheaded the planning, outreach efforts, and execution of biannual blood drives to collect 60 units of blood from the student body.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
In one paragraph, please explain your community interests.

The City of San José–my community–is a city that I have grown to love and appreciate due to its vibrant culture, hard-working but humble people, and efforts to better its imperfections.

Bearing an extremely diverse array of constituents, my community fosters cultural appreciation, learning, and exploration. I am engrossed by the lively displays of culture across the city (Lunar New Year: San Jose and Mexican folklorico dancing) and initiatives to highlight youth expression (Downtown Doors and Creative Futures Fair)! As a Commissioner, one of my goals would be to empower young people to express themselves in any medium, from the arts to STEM. This is embodied by Councilmember Doan, the elected official of my district, who always shows up for community events, whether it be LNY:SJ or SEEDS (a summer program by VAR I engaged in last summer). Moreover, I am very interested in how the city is working toward improving its political, social, and physical infrastructure. Within my line of experiences observing food insecurity, homelessness, and drug addiction, I am intrigued by the city’s hard work to ameliorate these unfortunate circumstances to the best of its ability through various programs and funding for community organizations. If given the position, I would feel empowered to accelerate different proposals or recommendations to best address these areas of interest, cultivating policy recommendations, social media campaigns, and community resources to reach members of my community.

David Huynh
Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel are some of the problems facing the youth of San Jose? The youth of San José are facing a culmination of mounting pressures from themselves, their peers, and the world around them. More specifically, they are burning out due to academic rigor, facing isolation from their communities, or enduring difficult times in which little resources are available to support them. Living in the Bay Area, I have witnessed many students suffer from stress and test anxiety due to unreasonable expectations bestowed upon them. This overwhelms students and conforms students to a tight schedule, where freedom to explore self-directed interests is limited. Moreover, several factors, relating to the aforementioned academics or external environments, have strained the mental health of many, leading to advocacy for mental health awareness. Young people should never feel unseen or unheard in any type of circumstance, especially when their age is being used against their competence. Youth are struggling, oftentimes behind closed doors, so it is imperative we work toward supporting and uplifting them, providing them access to a variety of resources. As important, gender safety and inclusivity, domestic violence, homelessness, drug abuse, and public safety (gun violence in schools, for example) are prevalent, intersecting issues that affect the youth as well, affecting their ability to perform and live at their best. As a Commissioner, I would advocate for the youth of San José by creating recommendations (policies) to the City Council to alleviate these problems, one puzzle piece at a time. In addition, I would collaborate with the Commission to ideate various initiatives (events, community resources) to widen the access to much-needed resources, particularly to members of the marginalized communities. Recognizing my role, I will do my best to support and represent the youth in any way I can.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel the priorities of the Youth Commission should be? The Youth Commission should prioritize highlighting youth voices (civically or creatively), expanding outreach and communication efforts to the public, and continuing to advance policy recommendations, workshops, and events to mobilize the youth. Representing over 230,000 youth throughout the city, the Commission should dedicate time to these priorities to invigorate young people in different capacities. More specifically, it is essential to uplift youth voices on local matters or on a creative spectrum to encourage youth expression. I would also suggest designing informative social media posts, reaching out to organizations and schools to publicize events, and collaborating with fellow like-minded youth groups. In addition, to encompass the entire community in the Commission’s efforts, it is imperative to expand outreach and communication efforts through in-person outreach (tabling or events) or social media campaigns to reach marginalized and underrepresented communities.

Finally, to further the accomplishments of the Commission so far, it is important to continue pushing for tangible change through policy recommendations, workshops, and events. As someone who stumbled across the San Jose Youth Commission from a simple Google search, I was reeled into the world of civic advocacy by the group’s many initiatives to mobilize youth like me. And for that very reason, I believe these priorities are integral to its expansion.

If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?

Yes

No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time?

Yes

No
David Huynh
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.

Serving as the District 2 Youth Commissioner and Public Relations Officer for the Santa Clara County Youth Task Force, I represent over 400,000 youth in the County, collaborating alongside fellow Commissioners to ideate and execute a work plan centered on education and public health. These issues are a priority to me because many youths are affected by the lack of higher education and financial literacy resources, as well as by homelessness, mental health, substance abuse, and period poverty. By advocating for the youth, the Commission can develop recommendations to empower young individuals in the County. I also manage the Commission’s social media presence, highlighting key events and opportunities by designing promotional flyers and informational posts targeted toward the youth. Recently, I designed a voter’s pre-registration guide flyer for 16 and 17 year olds and a comprehensive recruitment post for prospective YTF applicants, both of which were posted onto the YTF social media! In addition, I serve as the District 6 Youth Commissioner for the Valley Water Youth Commission, which is working toward an educational project to teach schools how to apply for a water refill station grant through Valley Water, and a Lab Tour Day to visit Valley Water’s labs. As a prospective Commissioner applicant, these collective experiences have prepared me for the duties expected of me in the Commission. I am well- versed in the concerns of young people and hold myself accountable to engage with my community (either politically, culturally, or interpersonally). Thus, I believe I would be a great fit for the Commission, given my experiences and enthusiasm to join! Considering your experience and activities in business, labor, School, professional, social, Commissions, Boards, or other organizations, indicate the experience, training, knowledge and/or skills which qualify you for appointment.

My prior experiences serving on several youth groups and in my community qualify me for the duties expected of me as a prospective Commissioner. At the heart of the Commission is collaboration and communication. Many of my soft skills will be beneficial to achieving effective collaboration and communication; these include leadership, work ethic, critical thinking, active listening, positive attitude, adaptability, and conflict resolution. I am never afraid to step up to a challenge or face criticism. One time, I yelled “Free flu shots!” to every person I walked past through a densely populated night market, where I was tabling. In the end, 50 or so people received free flu shots, some by the conviction of my yelling. As someone who finds socializing awkward at times, stepping up to one of my greatest fears– public speaking–revealed to me the strength and power of confidence and commitment. It also proved to me how rewarding supporting a community could be, even if it meant stepping out of my comfort zone. Thus, my care for my community, San José, and its people run deep. The knowledge I have cultivated from interacting with community members will undoubtedly reinforce my understanding of and excitement to aid the community.

What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? My understanding of the purpose of the Commission is to provide a platform for San Jose youth to empower and advocate for one another. There are as many as 230,000 youth present in the city, so it is imperative that there are representatives to speak up for the youth. And no one is better equipped for such a job than actual youth themselves. I believe that the goal of the Commission is to collaborate with elected officials, community members, and fellow youth to generate and execute ideas that will benefit the youth and development of the city. After all, the Youth Commission should serve as a totem pole for youth to be more civically engaged on local and city levels. By collaborating closely with the youth of San Jose, the Commission will be able to pass thoughtful legislation and develop meaningful programs to elevate youth, with youth input. Therefore, the utmost purpose of the Commission is to facilitate the involvement of youth in city planning, decision-making processes, and community events.

David Huynh
Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.

Existence of encampments and pervasiveness of homelessness: Given the timeliness of Mayor Matt Mahan’s proposed budget plan to tackle homelessness throughout the City, this issue is of particular relevance and significance to the Council. This plan has received mixed criticism, though many acknowledge the Mayor’s well-intentioned desire to house unhoused individuals. Personally, I have observed some of these encampments along the Guadalupe River through Tully Road and recognize the City’s need to address them. | Controversies over cultural expression: The inheritance and continual preservation of the Vietnam Museum in History Park has sprouted intense debates between opposing sides. With the Vietnamese American community in San José on edge, it is one issue that the Council should work toward resolving, given the community’s prevalence in the City. | Environmental disengagement and ignorance: Some of the roads I drive past are littered with trash, mounting to piles of filth and potential hazards. It is the City’s responsibility to encourage constituents to practice proper trash disposal etiquette and warn them of the dangers of not doing so. In particular, I would encourage the Council to proliferate the construction of many more trash cans and widen the recycling process.

What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? N/A: Unrelated.

Please explain your prior experience with historic preservation, with San José’s public planning processes, and in working with City or other public agency staff.

N/A: Unrelated.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in your local District Specific Youth Advisory Council?

Yes\,

David Huynh
(Optional) Please upload a resume.

Question applies to Youth Commission
If you answered Yes to the previous question, what are some projects you worked on in your Youth Advisory Council?
Creative Futures Fair: Co-organized 2025 Creative Futures Fair (vendor and volunteer subcommittees) and served as a lead for volunteer and vendor check-ins by managing attendance and requests for additional equipment/food during the event. | Budget Summit:

Presented my research about college preparation resources, such as SAT prep and college counseling, at the 2025 Budget Summit under the guidance of Commissioner Vu & Chair Mascarenhas. | Policy Work: Participated in writing a policy memorandum to the City of San José on establishing a restorative arts diversion initiative for justice systems-involved youth during the 2023-2024 YAC Term. | Work Plan: Collaborated in drafting the 2024-2025 YAC Term Work Plan by proposing, researching, and co-authoring several topics (college and career pathway resources, environmental stewardship, mental health, community issues) to engage the youth of San José and District 7.

Question applies to Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in the Youth Commission's Special Events such as the Annual Budget Summit?
Yes
Question applies to Youth Commission
If you are not selected for your district's Commission seat, would you be interested in the Citywide Commissioner role?
Yes
Anything else you would like us to know?
My third reference is Philip N or of the Vietnamese American Roundtable. Email Address: I consider myself to be a team player – someone who is willing to he opinions to make the best decision possible for the Commission. I believe that good teamwork and synergy are essential to facilitating a positive environment that will make good decisions for the greater good of the city. If I am appointed to this Commission, I will earnestly work my hardest to fulfill my responsibilities and be a good representative for the youth of San Jose! I would be ecstatic to join, and I am looking forward to what the Youth Commission does! Retirement Board Questions Only
David Huynh

Verification
By checking the box below, you agree with the following statement.

I Agree
*
David Huynh
David Huynh Education:

Willow Glen High School – San José, CA Mission College & De Anza College 2022-2026, GPA: 4.00 UW, 7 APs Spring 2024 & Winter 2025, GPA: 4.00 Experience:

President | Model United Nations Club Fall 2023 – Present ● Co-founded, expand, and manage biweekly-meeting club with 15+ active members ● Develop 10+ conference topics, guides, practice simulations to engage member delegates Vice President | National Honors Society Fall 2023 – Present ● Oversee activity planning, organization logistics, food drives with 200+ active members ● Oversaw the planning and execution of biannual blood drives with 60 total units collected Community Engagement Intern | Vietnamese American Roundtable Spring 2024 – Present ● Community outreach with VAR programs, health equity resources, and cultural activities ● Redesigned VAR website in collaboration with team, produced voter outreach livestream District 2 Youth Commissioner | Santa Clara County Youth Task Force Fall 2024 – Present ● Draft and execute work plan centered on education and public health for B.O.S. approval ● Manage social media presence by designing Commission graphics, represent 400k youth District 6 Youth Commissioner | Valley Water Youth Commission Fall 2024 – Present Yes on Proposition 5 Fellow | Working Partnerships USA Fall 2024 ● Phonebanked and canvassed to 500+ voters with information on voting for Proposition 5 ● Devoted 25+ service hours in a four school-week span, secured votes of 50+ voters Service & Activities:

Varsity Team Member | Willow Glen High School Badminton Spring 2023 – Present Varsity Team Member | Willow Glen High School Mock Trial Fall 2024 – Present Youth Action Committee, Volunteer | Sacred Heart Community Service Summer 2023 – Present ● 75+ hours: Packaged and distributed produce and poultry, streamlined recycling process ● Supervised donations, guided 15+ new volunteers, drafted mission and vision statement Awards & Honors:
3x Published Writer | TeenInk Magazine Awarded Winter 2023-24 Superior Award | NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing Awarded Spring 2024 National First Generation Recognition Program | College Board Awarded Fall 2024 Regional Gold Key in Flash Fiction | Scholastic Art and Writing Awards Awarded Fall 2024

Submit Date: Mar 27, 2025
First Name Last Name
Email Address
Street Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone

During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.

Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700 (California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.

Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple * District 9
Length of Residency
None Selected
Jingru Yu
San Jose CA 95124
Home:

Jingru Yu

Employer Job Title
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Youth Commission: Submitted
Question applies to Youth Commission
Birthdate
2008
Current Employer Address
N/A
Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Address of Current Employer of Spouse
N/A
Spouse's Job Title
N/A
If you or your spouse is retired and receiving a pension, please state source of pension.

N/A N/A
Jingru Yu

Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended.

Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.

Currently attending Presentation High School
List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.

San Jose District Two Youth Advisory Council - Vice-Chair (2023-24), Chair (2024-25) Languages Spoken
English, Mandarin Chinese
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
D2 YAC - Responsibility Award
Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.

Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes No
If yes, please list the addresses here.

Do you rent property in the City of San José?
Yes No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?
Yes No
Jingru Yu

Question applies to multiple boards
Are you currently experiencing homelessness or have you experienced it in the past?
Yes No
State and local law require that you abstain from participation in decisions that may affect your financial interests, including sources of income, interest in real property, personal finances or investments. In addition, if appointed, you may be required to fill out a disclosure statement which identifies certain financial interest beginning with the immediate twelve-month period prior to your appointment. Please review the scope of your board/commission in Municipal Code Chapter 2.08. Based on your best judgment, does this Board or Commission make decisions that may affect sources of income, interests in real property, personal finances or investments of you or your spouse?
Yes No
If yes, please explain. Please identify any organizations, associations, corporations, or entities by which you are employed or associated that might be affected by decisions of this Board or Commission, and the positions you hold in these entities.

Speech & Debate - 3 hrs/week Math Teacher Assistant - 3hrs/week Reference 1 Name
Neyha Pradeepkumar
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Jingru Yu

Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Question applies to
Youth Commission
Please list your community involvement, including jobs and volunteer work.

Currently, I am a TA for my math teacher. I do work such as grading homework and tests and creating answer keys for tests and quizzes. I also tutor those struggling with topics learned in class and assist them with technical issues with their graphing calculator.

Additionally, I
serve as the chair for the D2 YAC. As the Chair, I coordinate meetings and communication between the Youth Commissioner, the executive team, and members. We are currently working on a policy proposal to provide sex-ed resources on the San Jose Public Library Website.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
In one paragraph, please explain your community interests.

I believe that everyone must receive equal resources and opportunities. Only by giving everyone equal resources and opportunities can we guarantee the success of society as a whole. I believe that how we treat those who are vulnerable and needy is a greater reflection of the moral standing of society. Many people lament the unfairness of life and the differences in opportunity between those in different socioeconomic classes. Everyone deserves an equal opportunity in life and success, no matter what their definition of success may be. Making this a reality can be made possible through community service and working with the government and social justice organizations.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel are some of the problems facing the youth of San Jose? Due to the academic competitiveness of San Jose, many students in middle school and high school neglect aspects of their lives to achieve their goals of succeeding later in life.

However, I believe that this is detrimental to the mental and physical well-being of students.

The constant pressure to outperform peers only leads to burnout and other issues. There are also stark contrasts between the quality of education and resources received by those in different socioeconomic classes. I feel that there is more the government could do to help bridge the gap between those in different socioeconomic classes to allow everyone equal opportunities.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel the priorities of the Youth Commission should be? The Youth Commission should be focused on meeting the needs of youth on all levels of the social ladder. However, the most pressing issue right now is the homeless youth in San Jose.

San Jose currently has one of the highest numbers of homeless young adults per capita and there is more that could be done to alleviate this issue. For example, the Youth Commission should provide resources for those facing homelessness, such as physical care kits which could include products like toiletries and warm clothes, or providing more intangible resources like counseling or assistance with finding temporary/permanent housing.

Jingru Yu
If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?

Yes

No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time?

Yes

No
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.

What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.

Jingru Yu
(Optional) Please upload a resume.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in your local District Specific Youth Advisory Council?

Yes\,

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you answered Yes to the previous question, what are some projects you worked on in your Youth Advisory Council?
I participated in the D2 YAC from 2023 to the present. As vice-chair from 2023-2024, I, along with the Youth Commissioner, hosted a holiday drive with the organization Family Giving Tree. We raised over $200 to donate to families that cannot afford Christmas gifts for their children. Currently, as the Chair, the D2 YAC is working on a policy proposal that would provide sex-ed resources for people who don't have access to such resources. We plan on introducing this policy during the April Youth Commission meeting.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in the Youth Commission's Special Events such as the Annual Budget Summit?

Yes

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you are not selected for your district's Commission seat, would you be interested in the Citywide Commissioner role?

Yes

Anything else you would like us to know?
Retirement Board Questions Only
Jingru Yu
Verification
By checking the box below, you agree with the following statement.

I Agree
*
Jingru Yu

N O T A B L E

C O U R S E W O R K

L A N G U A G E S
Mandarin Chinese (Fluent)
Spanish (Intermediate)

C O N T A C T
AP US History - A
AP English Literature - A
AP American Government - A
AP Macroeconomics - A
AP Calculus BC - A
AP Precalculus - A
AP Physics 1 - B+

RUBY YU

W O R K E X P E R I E N C E
Math Teacher Assistant
Presentation High School DEEDs Program
Graded homework assignments & tests
Created answer keys for tests & semester finals
Tutored students struggling with Algebra II or Precalculus topics

E D U C A T I O N
2022 - PresentPresentation High School
San Jose, California
GPA: 4.55/5.0 (weighted) 3.89/4.0 (unweighted)
2024 - Present

A C T I V I T I E S
Council Chair
San Jose District Two Youth Advisory Council
Worked with Youth Commissioner and other YAC members to decide work plan
Conducted extensive research on the City of San Jose and the State of California’s education laws
Collaborated with YAC members to draft a policy proposal that would provide sex-ed resources on SJ Public Library’s website 2024-Present
Speech & Debate 2024 - Present
Competing in informative speaking & policy debate
Worked with the program director and other students to organize and operate tournaments on campus
Conducted research about AI and other topics related to intellectual property for policy debate
Georgetown Precollege Programs - International Law 2023 Completed numerous papers investigating the legality and outcomes of example cases
Georgetown Precollege Programs - Psychology 2023
Designed different methods for incorporating psychology factors into daily routines
Completed a capstone project on positive reinforcement and its ability to control/change human behavior

I N T E R E S T S
Law (Domestic &
International)
Psychology
Public Policy
Council Vice-Chair
San Jose District Two Youth Advisory Council
Hosted a holiday drive with Family Giving Tree that raised $200+ Held a workshop on writing policy proposals
Presented on the necessity of mental health resources at the budget summit which decides the annual city budget for youth related issues 2023 - 2024

S K I L L S
Policy Writing
Policy/Debate Research
Proficiency using word
processors (Google Docs,
Word)
Graphic Design (Canva)

Submit Date: Jan 20, 2025
First Name Last Name
Email Address
Street Address Suite or Apt
City State Postal Code
Primary Phone Alternate Phone

During the year, your application may be considered for unanticipated vacancies.

Additionally, applicants to the following commissions will be required to fill out a Form 700 (California State required Statement of Economic Interest) within 30 days of appointment.

Airport Commission
Appeals Hearing Board
Arena Authority
Arts Commission
Civil Service Commission
Deferred Compensation Advisory Committee (DCAC)
Downtown Parking Board
Board of Fair Campaign and Political Practices (formerly Ethics Commission) Federated and Police & Fire Retirement Boards
Historic Landmarks Commission
Housing & Community Development Commission
Work2future (SVWIB) Board
Planning Commission*
Are you a resident of San Jose?
Yes No
What district do you live in? To verify, please click here:
https://rovservices.sccgov.org/Home/IndexPost?
selected=dt&electionId=133&distance=5&navtab=vc&asm=simple * District 10
Length of Residency
6 or more years
Jinyoung Park
San Jose CA 95120
Mobile:

Jinyoung Park

N/A N/A
Jinyoung Park

Interests & Experiences
High School, College, Professional, Vocational, or Other Schools Attended.

Please include Major or Field of Study, Dates Attended, Degree and Date of Degree.

List any position or office held in any governmental agency, civic, or charitable organization including the dates.

Languages Spoken
Special Awards or Recognitions Received
Please state why you want to become a member of this Board or Commission including specific objectives which you would work toward as a member.

Please state any other information which you feel would be useful in reviewing your application
Do you own property in the City of San José?
Yes No
If yes, please list the addresses here.

Do you rent property in the City of San José?
Yes No
If yes, is it a month-to-month lease?
Yes No
Jinyoung Park

Reference 1 Name
Nolan Mascarenhas
Reference 1 Address
Reference 1 Email address
Jinyoung Park

Reference 1 Phone
Reference 2 Name
Megan Maloy
Reference 2 Address
Reference 2 Email address
Reference 2 Phone
Supplemental Questions
Question applies to Youth Commission
Please list your community involvement, including jobs and volunteer work.

1. I currently serve as the Vice President for the District 10 Youth Leadership Coalition. Since I am spearheading two projects (book drive & political science seminar) right now in the Coalition, it takes about 4 hours of my week. 2. I currently serve as the Vice President of Citywide Youth Advisory Council (4 hours). My job is to contact and keep people in the Advisory Council up to date, as well as providing assistance to those who need. I lead the Council to volunteer at various locations that require alternative tasks. 3. I am the co- founder and President of Equity Club which is a club in my high school. We go out to volunteer at food banks, homeless shelters and encampments (2 hours). 4. I am a math tutor for a fourth grader at a local elementary school (1 hour). Although it is a humble audience, I do my best to teach the young student not just about math but about my experiences, tips and tricks on what to do in middle and high school. Eventually, I hope to expand my business to help other kids as well. 5. I am a photographer who takes pictures of friends playing sports (4 hours). I run an Instagram account that exhibits all of my works. Friends and classmates often ask me to take pictures of them, but I don't want to stop there. Eventually, I hope to create a documentary on a topic that I like to research which is homelessness. 6.

As a school project, I am also hosting a sock drive to aid the homeless population (2 hours).

Question applies to Youth Commission
In one paragraph, please explain your community interests.

A goal that I strive to achieve is to end homelessness or at least reduce it. Since my immigration here to the United States in 2016, the homeless population has been on the rise.

Even outside the numbers, I can experience the increase in population when I go to my local Safeway. Through my school project, I was able to go more in depth into the topic and see through the surface level problems. The underlying reasons of poverty, drug addiction, and rising costs of housing startled my previously naive self. Soon, I realized that volunteer work and advocation of homelessness, although impactful, could only go so far. My ultimate tool is political change, and I believe that it starts here with the Youth Commission.

Jinyoung Park

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel are some of the problems facing the youth of San Jose? Although it is hard to admit, and I have been found guilty on multiple occasions, the biggest problem facing the youth of San Jose is phones. I believe that the phones itself aren't the problem, but the effects that come with it. I have noticed a huge loss of attention span in my age group as well as the younger generation. This loss of attention span is a huge problem considering that the youth won't be able to solve problems on their own. Another side effect is the lack of critical thinking. Students are less prone to think for themselves and more likely to subscribe to ideas without their own input. This makes the perfect victim for corrupt politicians as well as business owners.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
What do you feel the priorities of the Youth Commission should be? The number one priority of the Youth Commission should civic engagement. The lack of interest and involvement of youth in the public stage makes a ripple effect to the higher city level. When communication between the public and the city diminishes, unnecessary events are bound to happen. The depletion of resources or even violent resolve seems inevitable.

Moreover, the youth is the future of this country and whether they stay in San Jose or not, it is important to prioritize civic engagement, so that wherever the youth of San Jose goes, they can make meaningful impact on this nation.

If applicable, have you ever attended or watched a meeting of the Commission(s) to which you are applying?

Yes

No
Would you be available to attend meetings at the scheduled time?

Yes

No
Please describe your experience in serving on a Commission or Board.

What is your understanding of the purpose of the Commission? Please list three issues facing the City that you feel the Council should address.

Jinyoung Park
What is the purpose of historic preservation in San José and what is the role of the Historic Landmarks Commission in achieving that purpose? N/A
Please explain your prior experience with historic preservation, with San José’s public planning processes, and in working with City or other public agency staff.

N/A
Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in your local District Specific Youth Advisory Council?

Yes\,

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you answered Yes to the previous question, what are some projects you worked on in your Youth Advisory Council?
I have worked on many projects in the District 10 Youth Leadership Coalition including management of outreach, website building (for the YAC), park cleanup initiatives (adopted a park), political science seminar (ongoing), and the construction of little free libraries (in progress). My favorite project is the one I am currently working on which is the construction of little free libraries. We are in the phase of collecting books which I am partnering with the principal of Guadalupe Elementary School to meet our goal.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If applicable, have you ever participated in the Youth Commission's Special Events such as the Annual Budget Summit?

Yes

Jinyoung Park
(Optional) Please upload a resume.

Question applies to
Youth Commission
If you are not selected for your district's Commission seat, would you be interested in the Citywide Commissioner role?

Yes

Anything else you would like us to know?
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Jinyoung Park

Jinyoung (Kyle) Park
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o Pioneer High School: 2023. 8 - 2025
o Castillero Middle School: 2020. 8-2023. 6

o Vice President, D10 Youth Leadership Coalition, 2023-present o Sophomore Class President, Pioneer High School, 2024
o Vice President, Citywide Youth Advisory Council 2024-present o Co-founder/President, Equity Club at Pioneer High School 2024-present o Sports Photography Hobby 2024-present
o Conrad Challenge Semi-final 2023
o Pioneer High School Baseball 2023-present

o AVCA – Almaden Valley Community Association, 2023-Present o Almaden Lake Park Cleanup 2024
o Guadalupe Park Trail Cleanup 2024
o Second Harvest Food Bank 2024
o Loaves and Fishes Food Bank 2024

o NSHSS National Creative Writing Scholarship Winner, 2024 o District 10 Youth Leadership Council Empowerment Award, 2023, 2024 o Veterans of Foreign Wars Writing Contest Award, 2022
o Academic Awards 4.0 GPA, Castillero Middle School, 2021, 2022, 2023 o High Honors in the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth’s 2020

Education
Extracurriculars
Volunteer Experiences
Awards

San Jose City CouncilMay 13, 2025

San Jose City Council
May 13, 2025