|
Change begins when the next generation decides to be part of it.
For Adrian, that change began when he was 16 and he decided to join ELAWC’s Youth Leadership Program.
What began as a youth leadership experience became a deeper commitment to creating a future free from sexual and domestic violence. Here, Adrian learned prevention isn’t just about responding to violence after it happens—it’s about having honest conversations, challenging harmful behaviors, and helping young people understand their role in creating safer communities.
Adrian brings his own personal experience navigating trauma at a young age into this work. Rather than allowing that experience to define his future, he chose to use what he had learned to help others—and to become part of a movement for change.
Today, Adrian is making history as ELAWC’s first male Youth Advocate, opening the door for more young men to engage in conversations about accountability, respect, healing, and violence prevention.
His leadership is a reminder that men and boys have an essential role to play in ending violence—not simply as allies, but as active participants in creating a culture where violence is challenged and prevention begins early.
Now transferring to Cal State LA to pursue a career in social work, Adrian is taking that commitment with him. His hope for the next generation is clear:
“I hope future generations will advocate and speak out against sexual and domestic violence. I say to keep educating yourself, your friends, your communities, your kids, because only through personal education and accountability, we'll be able to stop future violence."
For 50 years, ELAWC has believed that lasting change happens when communities come together to listen, learn, and take action.
Adrian represents the next generation of that change—a young man choosing accountability, advocacy, and leadership.
Because when we listen, we learn. When we act, we create change. And when we rise, we bring the next generation with us.
That is the power of We Listen. We Act. We Rise.
| 
