January 7th, six days into the new year, sophomore Carla Chavez-Ramirez opens their email to discover that they are the recipient of the I Have A Dream Award. Afterwards, they pick up the phone to further confirm their success. They are being nominated for their impressive work with reviving and leading the Oviedo High School environmental club, beginning an early career of improving the world.

“I was a mix of ecstatic and grateful,” Chavez-Ramirez said. “I really only told a few classmates about my application for [the award], and I didn’t even share it on social media or anywhere. so out I had won was as shocking as it was exciting.”

The award, known as the IHAD award, highlights Oviedo citizens who have contributed to the community to recognize their efforts to help society. City councilwoman Natalie Teuchart believes that by recognizing the success of influential people, it can encourage others to strive to make a difference. 

“It is important to recognize individuals who are carrying on the mission of making the world a better place, embracing diversity and working together with their community,” Teuchart explained. “Recognizing these people hopefully encourages others to do the same.”

Chavez-Ramirez began helping their community early, winning the award because of the Environmental Club they founded at Oviedo High School in their freshman year. Starting not only a new environment within high school, but also starting a new club is a challenge in and of itself, but Chavez-Ramirez was able to make it work and thrive.

“Starting a whole club while finishing my freshman year was definitely a challenge in itself, especially with no prior knowledge,” Chavez-Ramirez said. “On top of that, I had to learn to balance the club with a rigorous course load, sports, other clubs and leadership positions, and volunteering. Yet these challenges helped build my character as I developed time-management and problem-solving skills you don’t usually get taught.”

People were able to vote on who they believed was the most influential citizen, and Oviedo students who were aware of Chavez-Ramirez’s nomination were happy to vote for them because of their relentless efforts to make the world a better place.

“I feel like [Carla] deserves to be recognized for her efforts in reviving and leading the environmental club,” Julia Miller, junior, said. “[Carla’s] a truly excellent person who has made real, tangible contributions to her community,” 

Although it was not easy, Chavez-Ramirez still managed to succeed and make a direct impact on society, one club at a time.