School: UNC Greensboro
Hometown: Yadkinville, NC
Roots: Mexico
Leslie Hernandez, a proud Mexican American, is 19 years old and is in her first year at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Since middle school, she struggled with feelings of not belonging while figuring out how to embrace her dual-identity as a Mexican-American while growing up in Yadkinville, NC. Her father has served as a role model and a reminder to never forget her roots. For the past five years, she has been involved with Juntos 4-H and served as President, Vice-President, and Secretary to bring awareness to the Latino community that higher education is attainable. Last year, she was the captain for the Yadkin Early College’s indoor girls soccer team because el amor por el fútbol runs through her veins. With the political climate rising, she plans to major in Political Science to bring civil reformation to her communities and represent Latinos, especially Latinas. Together, Leslie believes, we can empower each other, and overcome any oppression or obstacle we may face.