Kathleen Vik, ZuZu's CREATE Recipient and Teacher, with ZuZu and Mayor Sullivan
ZuZu Yang has faced numerous challenges in her lifetime.
Her living situation has been very unstable and challenging. She was born in Thailand where she lived in a refugee camp. She was moved to the United States in 2004 and became a permanent resident in 2005. Miss Yang has moved and changed schools frequently since arriving in America adding to the challenge of adapting to a new culture.
Her primary language is Hmong, which makes education especially challenging. Her single-minded determination to pass the “High School Qualifying Exam” resulted in success – she passed all three portions on her first attempt as a 10th grader! She has obviously worked hard to overcome her communications barrier. She “pays it forward” by helping her eight siblings, her extended family, and Hmong friends to learn the English language.
The family’s budget does not allow ZuZu to have same opportunities as other teens around her. So, ever optimistic, she enthusiastically participates in community service projects where she donates her time and talents. In fact, she recruits other teens to serve with her! ZuZu has volunteered to help with projects at the Covenant House, Providence Hospital’s Arbor House, and is an active member of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. She helps with the “Pack it Up” project filling backpacks with food, which are then distributed to the needy children at Birchwood Elementary.
ZuZu has a strong vision for her future. She plans to become a registered nurse or nurse practitioner. To support these plans, she is taking as many tech prep college credits as she can. She is enrolled in after-school programs, which add to her academic requirements and provide additional college credit. Miss Yang’s compassion and caring personality complement her career desire to help people and impact her community in a positive manner.
ZuZu’s Nominator and Teacher Kathleen Vik added:
Despite the moves and school changes, her strong desire to reach her vision has resulted in strong character, academic achievement, excellent work ethics, and a positive outlook on life. Her willingness to face challenges has allowed her to experience success in her education. She is a very special young lady.