IYT brothers and Mentors participated in Intramural Basketball, and Kash Boys made it to the semi-finals, falling short by 1 point of the championship round.
In April, brothers participated in four engaging workshops focused on leadership development, personal growth, and practical life skills. Through interactive and reflective activities, they sharpened their communication abilities in structured debates, crafted confident personal introductions for interviews, and explored routines to support a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, they gained valuable financial insights on car ownership and connected those lessons to future career planning. Each session promoted critical thinking and self-reflection and empowered brothers to make informed decisions about their personal and professional paths.
Structured Debates In this interactive session, participants engaged in structured debates that allowed them to deepen their understanding of important topics previously discussed. The activity encouraged brothers to articulate their opinions, consider and challenge alternative viewpoints, and defend their positions thoughtfully. To ensure full participation, brothers who were less familiar with certain subjects were provided with prepared talking points, giving them the support needed to contribute effectively. The ultimate goal was to foster critical thinking, teamwork, and the ability to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively, all of which are essential in leadership and collaboration.
“Tell Me About Yourself” Interview Prep This session focused on helping brothers confidently navigate one of the most common and challenging questions asked during job interviews: "Tell me about yourself." Participants reflected on their personal journeys, identifying key experiences, aspirations, and strengths that define them. With structured guidance, they crafted a well-organized and compelling personal introduction that conveyed their unique qualities and future ambitions. By honing these responses, brothers improved their public speaking abilities, built greater self-confidence, and developed a deeper understanding of how to present themselves effectively in both personal and professional settings. This workshop not only prepared them for interviews but also inspired creative thinking about their ongoing personal and career development.
El Camino students participating in the Youth Driven workshop.
Healthy Work-Life Routines Understanding the crucial need for balance between work and personal life, this workshop focused on helping brothers create routines that support both their professional responsibilities and personal well-being. The session encouraged participants to explore different ways to start their day with intention, setting positive, proactive goals to guide their activities. Additionally, the workshop emphasized the importance of establishing routines to unwind after work, ensuring that brothers could separate the stress of their jobs from their personal lives. Through various exercises, participants discovered techniques to de-stress and recharge, fostering a healthier mindset that supports sustained productivity and mental well-being. The key takeaway was that a strong work-life balance is integral to long-term success and happiness.
Financial Literacy & Car Ownership In this session, brothers delved into the financial aspects of car ownership, a key responsibility many face as they transition into adulthood. The workshop provided an overview of the costs involved in purchasing, maintaining, and operating a vehicle, from monthly payments to insurance, fuel, and maintenance. Participants learned how to budget effectively for these expenses, with a focus on making informed financial decisions when considering the purchase of a new or used car. The workshop also included a practical element, where brothers researched different career paths and job opportunities that could support the costs of owning and maintaining a car. This activity strengthened their financial literacy and connected the dots between smart financial management and long-term career planning.
Jesus Rios Vigil
9th Grade
Brother Jesus Rios Vigil is an outstanding example of what it means to be our Brother of the Month. Although he was a late addition to our program this year, Jesus has consistently demonstrated remarkable dedication, work ethic, and leadership from the moment he joined. Every programming day, without fail, he shows up ready to handle business, setting a powerful example for the rest of the brothers. Whether it’s study hall, workshops, Jesus makes the most out of every opportunity, encouraging those around him to stay focused and motivated. What truly sets Jesus apart is his quiet yet impactful presence. While he may not always be the loudest voice in the room, his actions speak volumes. He participates actively in our rituals and workshops, offering thoughtful contributions and unwavering support to his fellow brothers. His kindness, humility, and willingness to uplift others reflect the core values we hold dear within our IYT.
Beyond his involvement in the program, Jesus is also making big moves academically. As a freshman, he wrapped up his last term with an impressive 3.75 GPA, a testament to his discipline and passion for learning. Not one to settle, he’s already set his sights on surpassing that mark in the coming terms. Jesus plans to attend Sacramento State after high school to pursue a degree in mathematics, a subject he’s deeply passionate about and hopes to turn into a meaningful career.
In a short time, Jesus has become an integral part of our IYT brotherhood. His consistency, positive attitude, and genuine heart have not gone unnoticed. We’re proud to recognize him as Brother of the Month and excited to see the incredible things he’ll continue to accomplish in the future. Keep shining, Jesus, your journey is just getting started.
"The big lesson about life is you can't just dream about what you want to do. You've got to educate yourself, work hard, and make it happen."
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