Anaya Serrano

Hometown: McHenry, Illinois

School: Trinity Oaks Christian Academy 

Anaya Grace Serrano is a 16-year-old student and the fifth of nine children. Born in Chicago, she later moved to the suburbs with her family to escape gun violence and seek a safer environment. Anaya is deeply committed to her community and actively volunteers through her church, where she has gained meaningful leadership experience by organizing youth events and participating in service projects. Her upbringing in a large Latino family has shaped her strong sense of responsibility, empathy, and dedication to social justice. Anaya applied to CHCI NextGen to strengthen her leadership skills and connect with like-minded peers who are passionate about creating change. She hopes to use this opportunity to uplift her community and grow as a future Latina leader and even as an individual.