The West Hempstead School District announced that Sergio Rodriguez Ayala Jr., a junior at West Hempstead Secondary School, has been selected to participate in the 2026 Hispanic Scholarship Fund Youth Leadership Institute; a highly competitive national program taking place this summer in Los Angeles, California.
Sergio, who aspires to become an environmental architect, is among just 440 students chosen from a pool of more than 6,500 applicants representing 46 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
This selective program recognizes high-achieving Latino students in their junior year of high school and provides them with valuable opportunities for academic and personal growth.
The Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) is designed to equip students with the skills, tools, and knowledge necessary to successfully navigate the college application and financial aid process as they enter their senior year of high school.
Participants also gain clear insight into potential career paths, while building a strong network of peers, mentors, and professionals.
Through a combination of virtual learning and an in-person residential experience, students participate in college and career workshops, leadership development sessions, and mentoring opportunities.
The program takes place on the campuses of the University of Southern California (USC) and Loyola Marymount University, where participants reside for five days in a residence hall environment.
Upon successful completion of the program, students earn the distinction of “HSF Scholar,” accessing a range of ongoing support services including career guidance, mentoring, leadership training, wellness resources and educational programming.
Participants may also be eligible for scholarship opportunities as they pursue higher education studies.
The Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) is offered at no cost to students, reinforcing its mission to empower young leaders and expand access to higher education opportunities.
