NeNe, 18 years old, CA

NeNe has navigated a difficult childhood shaped by the challenges of growing up in an immigrant family that fled war, experiencing the loss of loved ones to incarceration and deportation, and facing ongoing financial hardship. Despite everything she has been through, NeNe continues to bring sunshine and positivity to those around her. She loves spending time with her family, especially her little brother, and enjoys reading and writing. NeNe is also deeply connected to her Cambodian heritage and takes great pride in her culture. She has big dreams for her future and hopes to become an immigration lawyer one day so she can advocate for immigrant families and honor the stories of people like her mother and uncle, whose experiences often go unheard. Her compassion, resilience, and determination to make a difference are truly inspiring.

Wishes submitted by:

Independence High School