Erika Negrete

Hometown: Mecca, California

School: Desert Mirage High School

Erika Negrete is a rising senior at Desert Mirage High School and a proud chicana from the Coachella Valley with her roots stemming from Irapuato, Guanajuato. Her identity shines through the PUENTE program in her school, which will also guide her through her journey in applying to a 4-year university. As a leader in her community, she hopes to bring about a positive change for herself and others, participating in programs (such as ALIANZA’s Youth Organizing Council and its Community Justice Campaign) that allow her to speak her truth on the matter. Her experience in CHCI NextGen is one to remember, being given the privilege to view how her government works from a much closer perspective. While initially thinking of pursuing a career in the biomedical field, it seems that she now considers a spot in Congress or a position much higher.