This week for my column, I would like to showcase a person who is making a real impact in countless communities.
In fact, he truly fits the descriptions of an inspiring individual and a role model, because he has broken great boundaries and has overcome much adversity. He is restoring and healing communities by confronting the real problems that halt progress in their communities.
This person is Adan Gonzalez. Growing up in South Oak Cliff, one of the toughest neighborhoods in Dallas, Gonzalez encountered serious challenges from his earliest years. Not only did he face the danger of street violence, but he also endured the barrage of financial blows on his family. But, while these conditions most often trap kids in an economic and educational slump, Gonzalez has emerged as a successful, up-and-coming star.
So, how was he able to overcome these hurdles? He told me that his parents made a lasting impact on him and shaped his outlook on life.
Today, Gonzalez is a sophomore at Georgetown University, where he is double-majoring in government and sociology with a double minor in business and education. He aspires to make his family proud, to make a difference in the world, and one day to become the governor of Texas. Outside of the classroom, he is involved in many leadership positions, including being involved with Avance-Dallas, a an intervention program that equips parents to stick with it and get engaged in their children’s lives from cradle to college.
Gonzalez: “I cannot wait any longer… I am tired of not being represented. I will use my own Voice, the “accent” that some listeners decided was not American enough. The voice of the people I love, who trust me. (Photo courtesy of Adan Gonzalez)
When I asked him about his pursuit for battling inequality, he told me: “I cannot wait any longer… I am tired of not being represented. I will use my own voice, the “accent” that some listeners decided was not American enough. The voice of the people I love, who trust me. Politicians are not hearing this voice, the sound of deprivations of many kinds. These lawmakers live life by theories and statistics, nickels and dimes. They know numbers. I know faces.”
Yet, apart from everything else that Gonzalez is involved in, one of his most monumental is activities is working with the Si Se Puede (Yes We Can Network) Network. In fact, he is currently the CEO and President of network, which is showcased on 411 Reality Radio Network Latino from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday.
It has also been documented that there have been over 5,000 listeners tuning into this network! The Si Se Puede Network shows much promise, and I strongly believe that it will be beneficial for many individuals. Gonzalez is an inspiration to many people. I have personally been able to meet with him and know he will create change in his community. I hope you are inspired by him, and that you enjoy my interview with Gonzalez below.
RIZZARR INTERVIEW WITH ADAN GONZALEZ
1. What made you start the Si Se Puede Network?
A movement is needed to encourage the youth, to speak up and create opportunities to better our schools, our environment, it’s a network where students can find mentorship, advice for higher education attainment, and a network to know how to get involved in the community.
2. What does the term “Si Se Puede” mean for your community?
I believe its “Hunger” it’s the belief that a person will fight to achieve the American Dream.
3. What has given you the drive to pursue Si Se Puede?
For many years a plethora of people have tried to battle inequality, and left a lot gaps. I don’t want to complain; I want to help reach a solution.
Glimpse at the Si Se Puede staff. (Photo courtesy of Adan Gonzalez)
4. Who is your source for inspiration?
Personally, my community “Oak Cliff,” my parents, Raul & Zenaida Gonzalez as well as my brothers Julio, Fabian, and Eric.
5. How do you think you will be able to manage the Si Se Puede Network while handling a full course load at a rigorous institution?
The network is set to give every person a chance to be part of the network, to create community service within and to give students the ability to lead their own initiative. Therefore, I plan share the workload with hard working ambitious students all across the country.
6. What are your hopes for the future with this network?
That it grows, in which major cities have its own branch, because even though every city is alike in its problems, it can be different too.
7. What do you do in your spare time?
I love to volunteer at a Recreation Center, where I am one of the Boxing/soccer coaches and tutor.
8. Is it true that you have competed nationally in Boxing?
Yes, I represent the US in England last January. I have also been awarded with both the 2008 Golden Gloves Boxing Regional Championship and the 2009 Dallas Golden Gloves tournament.
9. What do you see yourself doing after Georgetown?
I see myself enrolling into law school.
10. What advice would you give to people who want to pursue their dreams but may be limited by their circumstances?
It’s going to be hard, but hard work pays off… Si Se puede!
You can follow the Si Se Puede Network on Facebook by clicking here.
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