Each fall, YES Prep proudly highlights the creativity and talent of over 600 secondary students through its annual Holiday Card Contest. This year, we are excited to celebrate Maritza Sanchez, a junior at YES Prep Gulfton Secondary and the winning artist behind the 2025 YES Prep Holiday Card. 

Inspired by the quiet beauty of winter, Maritza’s design captures the stillness and comfort she associates with the season. “When I think of winter, I think about how peaceful and calm it is,” Maritza shared, “Families tend to stay home and get to spend more time with one another.” 

Maritza began her piece with a hand-drawn sketch, layering colored pencils and acrylic markers to bring her vision to life. Her goal was to create something that felt warm and inviting, everything that winter brings to her. 

Maritza’s YES Prep Journey 

Maritza chose YES Prep for the academic opportunities and support she heard students receive. Since enrolling, she says the resources available to her have helped her grow, both academically and personally. “They’ve provided me with resources that have helped me raise my grades and my GPA,” she shared. 

Equally important to Maritza is the sense of community she has found at YES Prep Gulfton Secondary. My favorite part about being at YES Prep is being close with my teachers and my friends,” Maritza said. “They’re kind, they’re supportive, and whenever I need help, I can go to them.” 

Beyond the Canvas 

Outside the classroom, Maritza stays involved through extracurricular activities, including Girls Club, where students build community and support one another, and the RISE program, which helps students learn financial literacy and money management. 

Looking ahead, Maritza hopes to attend a four-year college and pursue a major in art or design, continuing a passion she says has been part of her life for as long as she can remember. “Art helps me be creative and express myself,” she said. “It’s something that lives within me.” 

Celebrating Student Creativity  

Maritza’s story reflects the creativity, confidence, and support that YES Prep strives to nurture in every student. This holiday season, we celebrate her achievement and thank the teachers, families, and supporters who help all students turn passion into possibility.  

We also extend our gratitude to AmSpec, the underwriter of the 2025 YES Prep Holiday Card, for supporting this annual celebration of student talent. 

Click here to learn more about the YES Prep Holiday Card Art Contest and view the 2025 finalists.