Green teens taught me friendship, teamwork and the value of accountability. I took it for granted at the time, and I didn’t realize how profound all of these experiences were.

Where you started does not determine where you'll go. It's easy to think there's only one path to your destination, when, in reality, it's about the connections you make. Finding people who are willing to give you a chance isn't easy, but it is worth it.

There are so many different opportunities here for youth to prepare for high school and for college. I think not enough people know about this place, and it is an awesome place. Wherever you go, you can’t dim your light for anybody. You can always show somebody something or remind them that just like I am able to do this, you are able to do this as well.

This place is a sanctuary. This is a place where I can come and be myself. I want to give back to the place that made me who I am.

Find your passion, and just stick with your passion. Don’t let anyone put you in a box or tell you, you can or cannot do something. You should be your biggest motivator.

I attended meetings with the Obama Foundation. Being able to bring what I offer to the table was something I was proud of.

I love working here. Seeing something grow from a seed and see it really blossom – it’s pretty refreshing – to what’s going everywhere else. It’s a safe sanctuary.

I am really proud of the work I do here. Every single time I see the plants I planted grow, I’m like, they’re getting so big!

It is completely ok to change your mind/passion. For rising seniors especially, I think social media and other outside influences has made us believe we have to have it all figured out at a certain time. You don’t! Believe in yourself and trust the process. Everyone’s path is different.

My lifetime goal is being a leader who speaks up and changes policy to further justice.