YES Prep students once again demonstrated the power of leadership, dedication, and community as they participated in the National Hispanic Institute’s (NHI) prestigious programs this summer. From Houston to Colorado to Florida, students stepped into roles that challenged them to think critically, speak persuasively, and lead with vision. Their stories show how YES Prep’s investment in student opportunities creates a lasting impact for years to come.
The National Hispanic Institute (NHI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing future community leaders through transformative leadership programs for high-achieving Latino high school and college students. Through its signature leadership programs—the Great Debate, the Lorenzo de Zavala (LDZ) Youth Legislative Session, and the Collegiate World Series (CWS)—the National Hispanic Institute provides students with transformative opportunities to grow as thinkers, communicators, and changemakers.
Each program builds upon the last: the Great Debate strengthens students’ communication and advocacy skills, the LDZ immerses them in governance and policy-making, and the CWS prepares them for college and career success. Together, these experiences empower students to lead with purpose and confidence while shaping the future of their communities.
Help us congratulate this Summer 2025’s YES Prep student participants!
Rising Sophomore: Samantha Vega
For Samantha Vega, a rising sophomore at YES Prep East End Secondary, the NHI Great Debate was an introduction to competitive leadership and communication. Supported by a partial scholarship from YES Prep, Samantha took the leap into the program and excelled. She participated in the Mock Trial category, where she not only won several awards but also advanced to the Sweet 16 round of the competition. Reflecting on her experience, Samantha shared that the scholarship encouraged her to apply and complete the NHI program, an opportunity that opened doors for her growth as both a student and a leader.
Rising Junior: Michelle Castro
Michelle Castro, a rising junior at East End Secondary, has built on her NHI experience each year. She first joined the program with the help of a full scholarship from YES Prep as a sophomore. This year, she received a partial scholarship to attend the NHI Lorenzo de Zavala (LDZ) Youth Legislative Session at Colorado State University, where she represented her peers as a member of the House of Representatives. Michelle’s dedication and skills earned her numerous awards across the different NHI summer programs she has completed. Beyond her own achievements, Michelle returned as a volunteer coach for the Houston Great Debate Mock Trial group, training Samantha and other students to succeed. Her journey reflects how NHI creates leaders who both achieve and give back.
Rising Senior: Christian Gamboa
East End rising senior, Christian Gamboa, has completed all three of NHI’s signature summer programs, each one building on the last. Last year, he volunteered as a coach for Houston’s Great Debate team; this year, he stepped into an even bigger role as a volunteer Category Director for the Mock Trial team. Christian coached both Samantha and Michelle, while also leading the Houston team through months of preparation. His own NHI journey began with the LDZ at Colorado State, where he was elected as a Senator and earned the “Most Persuasive Senator” award among more than 100 students nationwide.
This summer, he completed the Collegiate World Series (CWS) at St. Thomas University in Houston and was recognized with the “MVP” award for his performance. Supported by a full scholarship from YES Prep as a junior and a partial scholarship this year, Christian successfully completed all three NHI summer programs, making him a standout leader within the NHI and YES Prep communities.
The Power of Community: Maria Gamboa
Behind these student achievements stands a network of support and one of its most dedicated champions is Maria Gamboa, Christian Gamboa’s mother and a longtime volunteer sponsor for YES Prep’s NHI students. With the help of YES Prep, Christian, Michelle, and other YES Prep student leaders, Maria has worked tirelessly to ensure students can participate in these summer programs. She has convinced hesitant parents, organized fundraisers to cover tuition and travel expenses, donated funds, volunteered her time, transported students to the University of Houston for four months of training, coordinated flight tickets, planned team-building activities, and celebrated with students after competitions.
Her commitment has helped 22 YES Prep students complete NHI summer programs. Maria’s own connection to NHI began over a decade ago when her daughter, Crystal, joined through a recommendation from YES Prep’s Director of College Counseling. Now, with her son Christian serving as a Category Director and completing all three NHI summer programs, Maria has witnessed firsthand how these opportunities strengthen leadership skills, spark excitement for national competitions, and foster a deep commitment to coaching others. “I’ve seen my children and other YES Prep students grow academically, personally, and as leaders,” Maria shared. “That’s what makes this work so rewarding.”
Looking Ahead
YES Prep’s College Initiatives team is committed to ensuring every student has access to the resources, experiences, and support needed to thrive beyond high school. By providing pathways to opportunities like the National Hispanic Institute and removing barriers that stand in the way, the team helps students build the skills, confidence, and networks to succeed in college and in life. Together, we are preparing the next generation of leaders to achieve their dreams and create lasting impact in their communities.