ESS Region 12: Joaquin Enriquez

Editor’s note: ACSA’s video series profiling the winners of the Every Student Succeeding awards program was impacted by COVID-19 shelter-in-place restrictions. Each week, EdCal will feature Q&A interviews with all 19 winners from each ACSA region. In addition, there will be video stories of the students whose footage was completed before the pandemic. Watch for these videos to premiere on ACSA’s YouTube channel and ACSA’s Facebook page this fall.  Grade: 12 School: Upland High School District: Upland USD ACSA region: 12 Joaquin Enriquez was born to entertain. A gifted singer and actor, he has performed with the likes of Broadway stars Bernadette Peters and Megan Hilty. Gifted with a relentless work ethic, Joaquin is dedicated to his craft. His cheery disposition and positive outlook on life are infectious. And yet, you would never know Joaquin has been homeless for the last year.

Abandoned by his family, Joaquin has relied on the support and generosity of friends and educators at Upland High. Through all of the instability and uncertainty, Joaquin has not allowed his challenges to stand in the way of his goals. He is determined to keep moving forward and find success in the entertainment industry. What are your hobbies and interests? I truly have a profound love and passion for the arts and entertainment. When playing a certain role, I try to enhance a particular character by adding a twist. I do this because I never want to be compared to other individuals. I want to be seen as original. I try to better myself each day by constantly working on my craft and setting goals for myself. I have a clear vision for what I want to do in the near future and I’m hoping that someday I could end up being successful in the entertainment industry.  What has been the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are today? I’ve been living on my own for over a year now. Personally, it has been mentally draining and exhausting. I try to not let my personal situations affect other individuals, so I try my best to maintain a positive mindset each day. There are times where it is difficult to find a home to sleep in at night. But I always tell myself there is always someone out there who has it worse than I do. To a certain extent, I’m thankful for the struggle. I never allow these challenges to wear me down. Instead, I use it as motivation. I know success begins and ends with me. And if I keep pressing forward, I will not lose sight of my goals. What educator helped you along the way and how did they help you?   An educator who helped me every step of the way was my counselor, Janell Aven. Without Mrs. Aven, I would not be where I am right now. She helped me overcome so many challenging situations over the years. She has such a big heart and I am forever grateful for her guidance.  What advice would you have for students facing similar situations? This past year of living on my own has opened my eyes to the difficulties people face on a daily basis. Being able to emotionally feel what others go through has taught me the importance of giving back and bringing positivity to the community. There are other individuals who are literally homeless, sleeping alone in the streets. I’m lucky enough to have a roof over my head most nights. If I could offer any advice, I would say there is nothing more important in this world than to spread love and kindness. And no matter what, keep pushing forward and chasing your dreams. What does it mean to win this award? I am extremely grateful to have won this award. But this award is not only about me. This award is about the teachers, counselors and friends who have consistently helped me along the way. In the midst of my struggles, I have found success thanks to their endless support. Without these people, I would not be where I’m at today.