Standout Spartan: Rafi Zepeda '26

Last summer, Rafi Zepeda ’26 spent 12 days in Ecuador as a youth ambassador. Rafi was selected from an applicant pool of 550 students to be one of 13 students in the Youth Ambassadors Program, which is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the Department of State. The program brings together high school students from across the United States and adult mentors to promote mutual understanding, strengthen leadership skills, and empower young people to make a difference in their communities. Students live with host families during their stay in Ecuador.

Rafi and her fellow student ambassadors met with the Chargé d’Affaires (the principal representative leading the U.S. diplomatic mission in Ecuador) and brainstormed how young people can take action to address issues that adolescents face in both Ecuador and the United States. They also participated in workshops on health and cultural sensitivity, and they traveled to the city of Cuenca.

“Every moment contributed to an unforgettable experience,” said Rafi. “I benefited from experiential learning, leadership training, and civic participation at the community level. Plus, a walking tour through the historic center of Cuenca allowed me to explore the city’s rich history and architecture, including its impressive monuments, including the Catedral de Cuenca. I am deeply grateful for this unforgettable experience.”