Giancarlo Perez knows the value of hard work and believing in a dream. Working alongside his parents for the family construction company since he was just 11 years old, Giancarlo is passionate about entrepreneurship. He’s now a co-owner of the company and has big plans for expanding and scaling the business.

“I believe it all comes down to wanting to do it and I believe if there’s something that you really like and you really want, there’s no better option than to just do it,” he said.

Giancarlo’s motivation to ensure other teens have access to opportunities, led him to start a nonprofit. Dream Project aims to inspire and encourage young people to overcome external challenges and set their sights on ventures beyond their comfort zones. The organization has created various clubs at Giancarlo’s school, and is working on a Male Empowerment Project to help teach young men how to carry themselves. He credits his school principal for planting seeds of greatness within him.

“He’s like a father figure,” said Giancarlo.  “He’s always trying to help and he’s always trying to make sure you’re in the best situation to succeed.”

In addition to co-owning a company and founding a nonprofit, Giancarlo is captain of the Varsity Soccer Team and a Student Ambassador for his school. He will attend ASU’s  W.P. Carey School of Business and plans to major in entrepreneurship. He is also working toward obtaining licenses in plastering and drywall.

“Seeing that I have the capacity to help people and to help them learn and improve and just better themselves all around, that’s what really keeps me going,” he said.