As students grow up, many deal with the fear and anxiety of putting themselves out there and having to present in front of large groups of people. Junior Jocelyn Perez saw this as an opportunity to use her voice to make a difference in her community and improve students’ speaking skills.
“At one point, I despised public speaking. I went to speech therapy for years, struggling to get my words out and battling constant fear,” shares Perez.
She took the initiative by founding and serving as president of a student-led organization, Speakers of Tomorrow. Her goal is to help make students feel more comfortable and confident in themselves to be someone for these students, since she once struggled herself.
“Little did the world know, there was a spark in me for changing the world,” expresses Perez. “It wasn’t until my former English tutor, Marilyn Lopez from Pembroke Pines Charter Elementary Campus, changed my life.”
Lopez was not just an English tutor to Perez; she was someone whom she looked up to, was inspired by, and helped her change her perspective on life. All of which was what led Perez to overcome her fear and become a powerful voice for people who need one.
Another person who has been a big motivation in Perez’s life is her brother, who has Klinefelter syndrome. Klinefelter syndrome is a genetic condition in males caused by an extra X chromosome, often leading to speech and language delays or difficulties..
“I saw myself in him, and something in me said I needed to be a change maker for him. Watching his progress step by step showed me that with support and practice, confidence can be nurtured—and it made me realize I could help others too,” Perez heartfeltly expresses.
With so many people being a positive light in Perez’s life, high school became the perfect chance for her to use and share her empowering voice at PPCHS. The school is a judgment-free, welcoming, and safe place where students can feel comfortable finding their own voices.
“I believe everyone has something inside them, and that voice can make an everlasting impact,” she beautifully states.
Looking ahead, Speakers of Tomorrow plans to hold monthly meetings where every member feels encouraged, supported, and free to grow at their own pace. The club’s first year will feature engaging station workshops, designed to make learning both fun and meaningful by focusing on different speaking skills each session.
To further uplift students, guest speakers, including professionals and teachers, will be invited to share their stories and wisdom.
Above all, the heart of the club remains rooted in its powerful motto: “Preparing the leaders of tomorrow, one voice at a time.”
