As the dedicated president of the ELAC Environmental Club, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible impact of Gabriel’s leadership. His unwavering commitment to our cause has not only inspired me but has also transformed the way our club operates. Gabriel brings a unique vision to our initiatives, encouraging all members to participate actively and passionately in environmental projects, such as the PIER Program: A partnership between UCLA and ELAC, where students have theopportunity to be mentored throughout a semester by a UCLA faculty member specializing in marine biology and oceanography.

Gabriel’s collaborative approach fosters a sense of unity, ensuring every member feels heard and valued. He doesn’t just lead; he empowers us to take ownership of our role in promoting sustainability. His ideas—whether organizing clean-up events, advocating for campus-wide sustainable resources, or connecting with knowledgeable environmental activists—have driven real change. Through his efforts, we’ve engaged with influential figures such as Steve Ask-List, the Farm-to-Classroom Advisor for LAUSD and UCLA alumnus; Anco Veiga, Pitzer College student and former president of their Environmental Club; and many others. These leaders provide invaluable insights into Los Angeles and global environmental issues, connecting us to possible solutions for a more sustainable future.

Under Gabriel’s guidance, the club has flourished. We’ve expanded our reach by creating a website and a Discord group, keeping members informed and engaged—even those who can’t attend meetings. His ability to unite diverse perspectives has amplified our visibility and motivated members to take actionable steps toward a greener future. From organizing community clean-ups to launching campus recycling programs, his leadership has strengthened partnerships with organizations like the ELAC Garden, ELAC Foundation, College Corps, Heal the Bay, TreePeople, and the Whittier Narrows Nature Center.

Gabriel’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond the Environmental Club. As a newly appointed Board Member to the Student Pop Closet, he now spearheads initiatives to broaden the organization’s reach. His journey began as a volunteer with the program, where he merged his passion for upcycling with supporting underserved students. The initiative tackles two pressing issues: reducing textile waste—responsible for nearly 10% of global emissions—and providing free, quality clothing to students in need. Through donation drives and advocacy against fast fashion, Gabriel has empowered hundreds of students while promoting a circular economy. His exceptional contributions recently earned him a promotion to the Board of Directors, where he continues to champion both environmental and social equity.

Gabriel believes in the power of small actions to create lasting change. Thanks to his vision, our club’s efforts are leaving a lasting impact in East Los Angeles. By fostering a sense of responsibility and respect for the environment, we empower students and community members to take an active role in preserving our natural resources. With Gabriel’s continued leadership, we are poised to reach even greater heights, leaving a lasting impact on both our environment and our community.

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