Changemaking Student Profile

Juno Quintana

Juno Quintana

Area of Study at MDC: Sociology

Campus: Wolfson

UN SDGs of Interest: Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 5: Gender Equality, Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, Goal16: Peace and Justice

Essence Words: Animated, Amorous, Versatile, and Eager

What does changemaking mean to you? How do you define what changemaking is to someone who's never heard the term?

Changemaking is action. It's about going out and doing the work that needs to be done while keeping others and yourself in mind. It's about building community and recognizing that nothing can be done alone.

Why do you consider yourself a changemaker? What issues are at the center of your changemaking work?

I hope to be at the forefront of the disabled revolution when the time comes. There is little to no disability education in mainstream conversations. There is very few representation for those of us with disabilities and it makes navigating a world that used to lock us out almost impossible. Through my club Disability Pride, I want to change that starting with Miami. I have an intense passion for my work, ideas, and plans for the future. That is why I consider myself a changemaker.

To be a changemaker, it is important to...

let yourself be human. Make mistakes, cry, and feel emotional. We won't change anything if don't allow ourselves to breathe.

What would you tell a student who would like to start their journey as a changemaker?

You don't need to prove anything to anyone—do the work because YOU want to, not because someone else does. Before you can make a change in the world, you need to know what makes you passionate, what makes you—you. You won't find out in a day, so be patient with yourself and get out there! Make connections, friends, and don't be afraid to ask questions! Nothing is silly, or stupid, you're you and that's AMAZING! Never. Stop. Learning.