Join us for the inspiring and deeply personal story of Xitlali Curincita, a first-generation college graduate, current UC Irvine graduate student, and former 2022 Youth of the Year award winner from the Boys & Girls Club of the Peninsula . Raised in North Fair Oaks, she shares what it felt like growing up between cultures and often navigating spaces where she didn't fully feel she belonged. From first grade, the Boys & Girls Club and the Redwood City Public Library became her second homes. Through Project Read, she learned to read, write, and learned how to smile and feel loved in spaces where she once felt guarded and alone. She talks openly about growing up with caregivers, missing her mom while she worked, and slowly understanding that "mom means sacrifice," especially as she learned more about her parents' journey coming to the United States to build a better life for their family. In high school, Future Grads and College Track helped her navigate culture shock, questions of identity as a Mexican American, and imposter syndrome. With their support, she took her first community college class. Eventually earning enough credits to enter UC Irvine as a junior, serve as student government president at Cañada College, and graduate debt-free with a degree in social policy and a minor in education. This episode highlights the transformative power of youth programs, which provide crucial academic support and a safe community for our youth via after school programs and college preparation guidance. Xitlali reflects on writing her Youth of the Year speech as a love letter to Redwood City, advocating and mentoring the next generation of Youth of the Year candidates, and honoring the women who lifted her. This conversation is a powerful look at turning pain into purpose, finding home between cultures, and using education to open doors for everyone coming after you. Join the conversation with host, Erica Lockheimer and co-host, Elizabeth Wendorf-Bloesser .
