I hope that our vision of equality, respect, and access to education become more widely accepted and understood.

Maritza is a member of the International Youth Leadership Council.

I got involved in activism upon entering college, primarily thorough a student organization called the Student Global AIDS Campaign. This organization introduced me to many domestic and international issues that revolved around sexual and reproductive health rights. The knowledge and passion of my peers concerning these issues, along with my own personal experiences and relationships with those who are fighting HIV/AIDS and experiencing sexual and health discrimination, serve as my motivation.

I hope that our vision of equality, respect, and access to education become more widely accepted and understood. Youth activists continue to impress the masses by successfully conveying this vision to adults and youth, with their hard work resulting in positive change. Youth involvement in this movement is important given that it contradicts popular beliefs about our generation of youth, proving that we are knowledgeable and proactive leaders of the future.