Today we’d like to introduce you to Emilio Carranza-Davis.
Hi Emilio, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born and raised in Southeast San Diego, where I attended various local neighborhood schools. As a kid who struggled academically, I moved around almost every year due to being in the foster care system and lacked the desire to engage with my academics. Throughout my early year in education, I struggled with the purpose of going to school and the purpose of life. During my junior year, I had a teacher who shared with me the importance of understanding who you are and defining purpose in everything we do. Around this time, I stumbled upon data showing low graduation and college completion amongst foster youth, with percentages in the single digits. I decided not to be another statistic, and in June 2017 I graduated, joining the less than 50% of former foster youth who graduate high school.
Following high school graduation, I knew I could achieve any goal I set out for myself as long as I approached it with a greater purpose. The greater purpose I established was to set an example for those who come from Southeast San Diego and foster youth. I enrolled in community college and remained a full-time committed student and full-time worker at local retail stores. After two years at community college, I transferred to Cal State San Marcos, continuing to defy the odds by taking charge of my education, getting to know my professors, and remaining involved in the community through local organizations on and off-campus. In May of 2021, I walked across the stage and joined the three percent of former foster youth who completed an undergraduate degree.
Throughout my higher education journey, as a former foster youth, I recognized the opportunities made available to me by various non-profit organizations. These services were invaluable when I applied for school, started a new job, and sought mental health resources. Despite the challenges I faced during my time in the foster care system, I knew that these services supported my goals. I felt privileged to receive these resources, even though I observed close friends and colleagues who also needed them but couldn’t access them.
Having access to an organization due to my foster care experience provided an opportunity to develop a business idea inspired by the well-known entrepreneur show Shark Tank. This was in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, and I was paired with a mentor, Brad Lupien, who is the President & CEO of Arc After School & Experiential Education. Through numerous planning sessions and meetings, I conceptualized the organization named ‘Focus of the Future.’ The intention was to provide a space for future generations to learn and grow, with a focus on creating a community for all underserved youth.
During this time, I was completing my final semester at CSU San Marcos. I maintained contact with Brad over the years, and in December 2022, I initiated discussions about actively establishing my long-overdue organizations. I began brainstorming the creation of an organization that offers a space for asking questions, fostering a community of like-minded young entrepreneurs, and sharing resources among its members.
‘Young Minds in the Community’ was officially established in January 2023, creating a platform for individuals to network with professions and seek support in their personal and professional journeys. Our organization aims to empower community members with the skills and tools needed to achieve their life goals. We provide mentorship, volunteer opportunities, networking events, and a space for like-minded individuals who aspire to grow and seek guidance.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road to getting where we currently are is far from smooth. I am certain that there will be more bumps that we may face; however, I am confident that with the right individuals and mindset, we will overcome those obstacles.
As I created this organization, my main focus was to identify the right audience. One of the ongoing challenges we face is reaching new individuals to join us. I am confident that there are individuals who can benefit from our community and also contribute to our mission, that may not even know about us. As a newly established organization in San Diego, we also face the challenge of establishing mutually beneficial partnerships. Our approach involves staying open-minded, emphasizing the creation of networking opportunities and volunteer projects. We are eager to connect with like-minded individuals to enhance mutual support, as many of our members recognize that collaboration is essential for our collective success. Our focus extends beyond cultivating a community within our group;we aim to make connections and a positive impact on the broader community of San Diego.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I currently serve as a full-time Case Manager and Rehab Specialist through the YMCA TIDES program. In this role, I provide guidance, support, and resources to help youth recognize their potential and create opportunities for themselves. My focus is on equipping young people with life skills, educational support, and confidence-building strategies.
Outside of my professional responsibilities, I also serve as an advocate and mentor, empowering young individuals from underserved communities. Currently, I serve on the Board for the Coalition of Juvenile Justice and coach baseball with the El Cajon Little League.
As a public speaker, I’ve had the opportunity to address various audiences, with my largest being 1,000 individuals at a conference dedicated to empowering educators. What sets me apart is my personal connection with members of underserved communities and my credibility to connect and inspire. I bring a renewed style of engagement that aims to produce future leaders and change-makers. I approach mentorship without hidden agendas, genuinely believing in the power of giving without expecting anything in return. This, I believe, inspires others to live a purposeful life.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
When seeking a mentor or attending networking events, I highly recommend exploring online resources with a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Personal growth often requires embracing discomfort. At many networking events I attend, I often find myself as the youngest participant. However, after these events, I’ve accumulated business cards and connections that might not directly benefit me but can be valuable to someone in my network. I firmly believe that opportunities arise when individuals immerse themselves in an environment designed to benefit others. I’ve discovered many mentors by actively participating in local organizations, whether as a participant or volunteer. Additionally, using social media and online platforms to follow accounts that share networking and community events can help you connect with link-minded individuals. The most meaningful connections often come from strangers who are willing to offer assistance. Mentorship has become increasingly virtual, making it crucial to find a mentor who can best guide you. Lastly, I encourage you to check out ‘Young Minds in the Community’ with an open mind, to connect and potentially mentor or provide the great insight that you can only provide.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.youngmindsinthecommunity.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youngmindsinthecommunity/
Image Credits
Volunteer Photographer
Janet Coover
