Bright Futures Ahead: Youth Enrichment Fund Celebrates Santa Fe Springs Scholarship Recipients

In a milestone year for the Youth Enrichment Fund (YEF), the Destiny Scholarship program has expanded its impact, awarding an unprecedented number of scholarships to graduating seniors from Santa Fe High School.
This year, the YEF Board has awarded a $20,000 scholarship, while two additional students each received $5,000 awards. In a further commitment to supporting local youth, 5 other graduating seniors will receive $500 Youth Enrichment Fund Scholarships.
A Future in Law and Justice
Leading this year’s class of honorees is Samuel Zamora, recipient of the prestigious $20,000 Destiny Scholarship. Zamora will attend the University of California, San Diego this fall, where he plans to major in Political Science before pursuing law school.
Driven by a clear ambition to become a District Attorney, Zamora has demonstrated a strong commitment to service and leadership. He is actively involved in his church and athletics, and he looks forward to further broadening his perspective through an upcoming mission trip to Japan. Those who know him describe him as confident, purposeful, and deeply motivated to uplift others.
Inspiring Through Service and Science
Sandra Sanchez, one of two $5,000 scholarship recipients, has also committed to attending San Diego State University. She plans to pursue a career in crime scene investigation, fueled by her passion for uncovering truth and serving justice.
Sanchez is recognized not only for her academic goals but also for her leadership and compassion. As a former Queen on the Santa Fe Springs Princess Court, she played an active role in community service initiatives, including organizing a shoe drive that collected 200 pairs of shoes for those in need. Guided by her belief in treating others with kindness and respect, she continues to inspire those around her.
Determination Rooted in Resilience
Also honored with a $5,000 scholarship is Rida Athar, whose journey reflects perseverance and ambition. Born in India and raised in a disciplined, hardworking family, Athar credits her upbringing for instilling strong values of respect, determination, and resilience.
Aspiring to become a doctor, Athar plans to major in biomedical sciences and remains open to exploring various educational pathways to achieve her goal. Her dedication and adaptability stood out to the selection committee, who praised her clarity of purpose and commitment to overcoming challenges.
Investing in the Next Generation
The Destiny Scholarship is awarded annually to students who exemplify resilience, character, and a clear vision for their future. This year’s expanded awards reflect YEF’s ongoing mission to invest in the potential of local youth and to remove barriers to higher education.
As these students prepare to take the next steps in their academic journeys, the Santa Fe Springs community celebrates not only their achievements but also the promise they hold for the future.

The Youth Enrichment Fund (YEF) Scholarship Committee has identified and interviewed some of the most dedicated, inspiring high school seniors—students clearly on the path to bright and successful futures. The committee is proud to announce the recipients of the Powell Scholarship ($2,500) and Vocational Scholarships ($2,000).
 
Matthew Diaz, Powell Scholarship recipient, is an exceptionally talented and personable individual who is the first in his family to attend college. He is attending the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he plans to pursue a career in music, acting, and video production. Reflecting on one of his music videos, Diaz described his creative process as starting with a simple thought and following it through with determination until it fully comes to life. He thrives in the spotlight, drawing energy from creative environments where his artistic expression can flourish.
 
The YEF Scholarship Committee is also honored to award three Vocational Scholarships.
 
Lincy Hernandez of Santa Fe High School plans to attend the University of California, Davis, where she will complete her undergraduate prerequisites before enrolling in veterinary school. She has a passion for working with large animals and is known for her quiet demeanor—yet she truly shines while volunteering at a Therapeutic Riding Center, assisting individuals with special needs through equine therapy. Lincy lives by the belief that if something is worth doing, it is worth doing wholeheartedly.
 
Fabian Orozco, also from Santa Fe High School, will attend the University of Portland to pursue a degree in computer science. He has a strong passion for problem-solving and values ethics, reasoning, creativity, and communication—skills he looks forward to applying in his future career.
 
The committee is especially proud to recognize Tomas Villarraga Gil, who has been awarded both the Powell and Vocational Scholarships. Tomas plans to pursue a career in architecture, driven by his desire to serve others by designing homes tailored to the unique needs of individuals and families. Born in Colombia, he has been influenced by European architectural styles and hopes to incorporate those elements into his work in the United States. Tomas places great importance on his faith, family, and community.
 
Due to the high cost of tuition for international students, Tomas plans to begin his education at a community college before transferring to a university to complete his degree.
 
The Youth Enrichment Fund proudly supports these outstanding students as they take the next steps toward achieving their goals and making meaningful contributions to their communities.