When applying to Rising Sun, I did not imagine that I’d be learning more about one of my future aspirations let alone think I would be one step closer to my dream. My initial intention was to become an Energy Specialist and help my community by providing energy and water efficient installations for their homes. Instead, I was offered an opportunity to be a Leader in Field Training (LIFT) for the summer. As a LIFT I would educate others, promote sustainability, and help fight climate change. Taking on this role has been an extraordinary experience that has strengthened my aspiration of having my own youth program in the future. I grew up in a low-income community that lacked resources to support young people which is why I want to guide youth from my community to follow their passions by surpassing daily encounters with violence, gangs, and drug abuse.

As a LIFT, I assisted my site managers while strengthening my leadership skills. Furthermore, my position allowed me to become a mentor for the youth during the summer. LIFTs lead professional development presentations every Friday and participate in Green House Calls alongside the Energy Specialists. Professional development allowed me to provide Energy Specialists with resources they could use after leaving Rising Sun Energy Center. While participating in Green House Calls, I could see the youth impact their own community. The youth were hired and trained to provide green services in their communities. The most inspirational aspect of the program was seeing the Energy Specialists educate their neighborhoods. The youth provided energy efficient installations in homes and shared advice to help fight climate change.

As I previously mentioned, my future aspiration is to direct a youth empowerment program of my own. My passion has only grown stronger because of my experience as a Leader in Field Training. Through my own youth program, I hope to empower young people from my community to build and follow their own dreams all while making a positive and effective impact in their community. Many youths in my city miss opportunities to become leaders because they lack support and motivation. Working closely with my own community has shown me that a difference can be made. We simply must take the first step, overcoming all obstacles through patience, passion, and dedication. This journey I have embarked on with Rising Sun has given me hope to continue the change in my home town.


Written by: Joselin Barajas, CYES LIFT, Making communities in the City Of Hayward more energy and water efficient.