This summer, PowerUP Scholarship Fund celebrated a major milestone. Diana, age 17, and Ximena, age 16, became the first students in our program to earn black belts. After years of training at Warriors Forever Martial Arts with Sensei Guillermo Cesario, both young women reached this achievement through consistent hard work and dedication.
It is especially meaningful that our first black belts are girls. In a space where young women are often underrepresented, Diana and Ximena have shown that strength, leadership, and determination know no gender. They have trained for years — beginning in middle school — and have become role models for everyone in our community.
“For me, Taekwondo means discipline, respect, and determination. It has made me stronger physically and mentally. It pushes me to be the best I can be.”
— Diana
From fourth grade to now, Diana has grown into a focused and confident leader.
Ximena shared how the practice has shaped her life as well:
“Because of Taekwondo, I have been able to improve my discipline and self-control. It has shown me to respect others and most importantly taught me to respect and defend myself.”
— Ximena
She also hopes to pass that knowledge along and help others grow through the practice.
What This Milestone Means
At PowerUP, we believe in the power of mentorship, consistency, and opportunity. Diana and Ximena’s success is a reminder of what is possible when young people are given the tools to thrive.
To our donors who make these journeys possible, thank you. Your support helped these students reach black belt status — and you are a part of this proud moment.
Connor Cook is the Executive Director of PowerUP Scholarship Fund.