Paola Gonzalez: Empowered by Community and Opportunity

By Cesar A Reyes

“My name is Paola Gonzalez and I am a bisexual Latina high school graduate,” she begins proudly. At just 18 years old, Paola is setting her sights on a future in business administration as she prepares to begin college. For her, education is more than just a goal. It is a step toward breaking barriers and building a future where she can lead, represent, and uplift.

This year, Paola was selected as one of the recipients of the prestigious VIDA Scholarship, a recognition she describes as deeply meaningful. “Being one of VIDA’s scholarship recipients this year is truly an honor. Not only receiving financial support, but feeling seen for who I am: as a student and a member of the Latinx LGBTQIA+ community.”

For students like Paola, VIDA is more than an organization; it is a lifeline. “Scholarships such as VIDA’s are crucial to LGBTQIA+ Latinx students,” she explains. “It is recognition, validation, and empowerment.” Having grown up in an environment shaped by conservative Latinx ideals, Paola understands the emotional and cultural obstacles many queer youth face. “I know from experience how hard it is to navigate a place where you may not see yourself reflected or even supported.”

The annual VIDA Scholarship Luncheon celebrates and uplifts students like Paola, and reminds us all of the importance of investing in young people with courage and vision. When asked to choose a WORD that reflects the mission of VIDA, Paola answers without hesitation: “The WORD is Empowerment. That is how I feel today thanks to VIDA’s support. I truly feel seen and lifted by people with similar backgrounds and stories, people that understand what I have been through.”

With her eyes on the future and her heart grounded in community, Paola Gonzalez is ready to thrive.