TYWLS Student Balances Leadership, Academics & Advocacy in Women’s History Month

News 12 Bronx spotlights a student from The Young Women’s Leadership School of the Bronx, a school in our Young Women’s Leadership network.

By Jodi-Juliana Powell
Originally broadcast on News12 Bronx on March 23, 2026

A first-generation Dominican-American high school student is making a name for herself in the Bronx during Women’s History Month.

Zoe T., a 10th grader at the Young Women’s Leadership School, maintains straight A’s while serving as vice president of her school’s student union, captain of the volleyball team and manager of the basketball team.

Her leadership extends beyond campus. She is also a member of the Bronx Borough President’s Youth Council, where she works with other students to develop ideas addressing issues affecting young people, including access to basic school supplies.

Zoe credits her drive to the strong women in her life, including her mother and two older sisters, who inspired her to pursue an all-girls education focused on leadership.

“Being surrounded by smart, intelligent women … it’s kind of like a blessing,” she said.

As she helps prepare for a women’s empowerment celebration at her school, she said her interest in women’s studies continues to grow. She hopes to become a clinical psychologist, with a focus on mental health for women.

“I think mental health, especially for women, is so important,” she said.

[Zoe] said she hopes to turn her passion into meaningful change in her community.