MADD Teen Influencer
April 2025
advocacy. I’ve helped host this free, intensive five-week program that teaches participants to rise above peer pressure, focus on traffic safety, and use social media mindfully. I have published articles about the negative effects of celebratory drinking and the impact of alcohol on the teenage brain in local newspapers and as a lead writer for the monthly MADD newsletter — hoping to reach teens and parents alike.
Just last year, MADD invited me to compose and deliver a speech as part of its yearly press conference on the steps of Los Angeles City Hall. This annual December event commemorates the lives lost to impaired driving during the holiday months. I stood alongside the Los Angeles Police Department chief of police, prominent lawmakers — and a father whose teenage child was killed by a drunk driver. As I listened
intently to each person’s speech, I acknowledged their very personal, emotional motivations for dedicating themselves to this crusade to crack down on impaired driving. When it was my turn at the podium, I spoke about the devastating impact drunk driving has on teenagers. I advised parents in the audience to start conversations about drug and alcohol abuse early. It is my hope that at least one parent decided to have that very important talk with their teenage son or daughter about the proliferation of drug and alcohol abuse and dangers of impaired driving. At the end of the conference, City Hall and various bridges in Los Angeles were lit up in red for the remainder of the month to commemorate those lives lost, while also serving as a reminder to not drive impaired. Watching the building in front of me cast a brilliant red motivated me further to share MADD’s mission. I developed a deep desire to continue to devote my time and support to my community. Recently, I had the honor of volunteering as the keynote speaker at our annual MADD Teen Influencer Summit, an educational event for youth, parents, and community members. Each impassioned speech I deliver may save a life that could have ended too soon.
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