OPIA UPCYCLING
Our names are Ri Gomez and Gina Buitron. We started this program because of our love for our community, LGBTQIA+, and our interest in fashion. With the help of the Dragon Kim Foundation we were able to begin a project to teach social entrepreneurship and upcycling, in hopes of creating a safe community for queer youth.
Ri Gomez
they/them
Hey! I'm a Senior at Samueli Academy in Santa Ana. I started this program with my friend to teach fashion design and provide a community for LGBTQ+ youth. The lack of resources in my community for Queer youth was becoming a problem because a pattern of homophobia and hate.
I really love fashion design, art and connecting with my community. My hobbies include video games, sewing, painting, watching anime, and twitch.
I am super excited to meet new people and see other's creations!
Gina Buitron
she/her
Hello! I am a Senior at Samueli Academy Charter Highschool. I am very involved with my community at school by being on the student body council. I am passionate about uplifting communities like mine which lack resources and opportunities. Some of my hobbies are fostering kittens, playing video games, thrifting, and going out for a run. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, while trying to live life to the fullest.
I am super excited to be running Opia Upcycling with a very good friend of mine. I can't wait to meet new amazing people and gain a bunch of new experiences during this program!
Jocelyn Bello
she/her
Ashley melendez
she/they
Jacob cervantes
they/them
Valerie Gomez
she/they
