2022 PAL Youth of the Year

Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength. It shows you have the courage to admit when you don’t know something, and to learn something new. – Barrack Obama

Oscar Mejia was born in Inglewood, California on June 17th, 2004. He was raised in Lincoln Heights in Los Angeles with his family, including his mother Teresa, his father Saul, his younger brother Ian (13), and his younger sister Alana (4). Oscar attended Gates Elementary School and Alliance Academy Middle School #5. He enjoys playing basketball, listening to music, playing soccer, and skateboarding. 

However, when Oscar reached Alliance Susan and Eric Schmidt Tech High, he faced obstacles within the educational system and was unsure if he would graduate. He was referred to the Hollenbeck PAL Diversion program where, with the help of tutors, parents, and his own determination, Oscar was able to graduate high school in June 2022 while complying with the PAL requirements.

After graduation, Oscar joined the Summer Night Lights program sponsored by the Mayor’s Office in Los Angeles. Currently, he works in Glendale and plans to continue his education at either Los Angeles Trade Tech College or East Los Angeles Community College. He aims to obtain a certificate in Auto Mechanics or Electrical Field and is confident that either option will provide employment opportunities in the near future.