Hi, I'm Erik Hernandez. I decided to join the Self Determined Futures team because of my background in community and social advocacy. I spent most of my teenage years advocating for change in the community of City Heights with an organization called Mid City CAN. There, I focused on addressing issues such as creating a safe place for skateboarders, starting a bus pass pilot program for youth to have access to reliable and free public transportation, and hosting various community events to expose the community to available resources. 

I quickly learned that I had a passion for social change by seeing how my work positively affected the lives of those in the community. In high school, I was exposed to their health academy. Once enrolled, I was able to volunteer with different organizations that worked with people with disabilities, and I really enjoyed being part of a team of professionals that helped bring joy and care to this community. My goal in life is to become a firefighter and continue to care for and serve my community. 

The experience of community advocacy, enjoying helping others, and learning about compassion through my EMT schooling ultimately led me to apply and, thankfully, become part of this growing team.

A fun fact about me is that I play rugby for a semi-professional International Gay Rugby team.