Making history for Pembroke Pines Charter High School, Co-Managing Editor Julianna Perez was elected as the Florida Scholastic Press Association (FSPA) District 7 Representative. Representing student journalists from Broward, Martin, and Palm Beach counties, Perez is the first Pines Charter student to hold this position.
“It’s such an honor to be the first district representative from Charter,” Perez said. She recognized that this milestone was not hers alone and credits her success to those who have guided her along the way. “This school has brought such amazing people into my life, like my friends, teachers, and role models. Without them, I wouldn’t be half the journalist I am today. I’m just so happy to give back to my school and hopefully make them proud, just like they’ve always supported me.”
Perez’s journey to making school history wasn’t written overnight, and it all began at this year’s Fall FSPA District Workshop, where students gathered for a day of workshops, networking, and inspiration. It was here that Perez delivered her speech, a moment she described as deeply personal and empowering. Her message was clear: to restore the world’s faith in the power of journalism. But, she knew that to restore the world’s faith in journalism, she first had to restore the faith of journalists themselves.
Her campaign challenged the idea that journalism is a dying profession, connecting with her peers by showing them that their voices do matter. “This generation of student journalists is proving the world otherwise,” Perez said. “From the work I see in our newsroom to the talent displayed at FSPA conventions, I’m constantly inspired.”
As District Representative, she joins the FSPA Board of Directors where she helps shape the mission of the organization, organize workshops, and plan the long-anticipated state convention. For Perez however, “the role is more than the title”. Beyond the logistics, she sees this as an opportunity to inspire and connect with fellow student journalists.
One of her main goals is “to make FSPA a less intimidating space”. She aims to create “an environment where [journalists] don’t see each other as competitors, but as peers and inspiration. We’re a community of student journalists, and we should uplift one another.” says Perez
Looking ahead, her vision includes creating more opportunities for students to share their work and learn from each other. “There’s so much talent that goes unrecognized, and I want to change that,” she said. “I’d love to see more sessions at conventions, not just the typical ones about running a newsroom but also ones that inspire and open our eyes to new possibilities.” She also plans to use social media and networking to spotlight programs across the district.
“A lot of schools don’t get the recognition they deserve, even if they don’t win competitions or submit work. It’s important to share what they’re doing because everyone’s voice matters.” Additionally, she has plans to include bringing in more guest speakers to show students the true possibilities within journalism. “Hearing from professionals in the field can show students that their passion for journalism can lead to real careers that make an impact,” Perez explained.
Senior Editor-in-Chief of the CHAT newspaper, Alexia Rivera, who has worked alongside Perez for 3 years now, shared her pride in this historic achievement. “Being able to watch her grow and achieve her goals inspires me every day,” Rivera said. “The fact that she will be the first-ever district representative from Pines Charter is a huge step for our publication. Not only is she representing the district, but she is representing her team and her school.” Julianna has always been great at connecting with others, whether it’s within school or the community. She’s a collaborator, she takes action, and above all, she invests herself when it comes to journalism.
The ripple effect of Perez’s election is already being felt across the newsroom and school community. Sophomore Adia Perez described how Perez’s success has motivated underclassmen: “Sometimes I doubt if my work matters, but then something like this happens, and I’m reminded that all the effort counts. It inspires me to put my heart into what I do.”
To those who look up to her, Perez offers simple yet powerful advice: “Just do it,” she said. “When I got the email about becoming a District Representative, I hesitated, thinking so many other people could do it. She now leaves everyone doubting themselves with a powerful message: “Trust yourself, trust your work, and know that you have everything it takes to succeed. Even if you don’t win, you’ll grow as a journalist and as a person.”
As Perez steps into her role, she carries not just the support of her classmates and peers but also the weight of her vision. “I can’t wait to see what she does as district representative,” Rivera concluded. With excitement for the future, Perez embarks on her new journey, eager to make a lasting impact and inspire those to come.
