Lesira is a dynamic student leader whose experiences across business, advocacy, and the arts have shaped her passion for sustainability and community impact. As an active member and National Western Regional Vice President of FBLA, she developed strong skills in public speaking, collaboration, and strategic thinking, eventually growing into leadership roles that emphasized mentorship and inclusion. Her confidence as a speaker was not built overnight; through competitions, presentations, and leading initiatives like her regional mentorship network, she learned how to communicate with clarity, inspire action, and create spaces where others felt heard.

When her school’s primary fundraiser was defunded, Lesira refused to let financial barriers limit opportunity. She became a campus barista to “fuel her FBLA dreams, literally,” helping launch Buckeye’s Brews and Blends, a student-run coffee cart designed to support FBLA and other CTSOs. What began as a simple idea quickly evolved into a fully operational business. Lesira collaborated with peers to pitch the concept, secure sponsorship for equipment, and organize operations at school events. She played a key role in managing pricing, inventory, and sales while learning to lead under pressure during high-demand rushes. Through trial and error, she and her team refined their systems, ultimately transforming the cart into a sustainable and reliable funding source. Beyond revenue, the coffee cart became a hub of connection on campus, reinforcing her belief that entrepreneurship is not just about profit, but about service and community.

Outside of business, Lesira’s work with her local city council on air quality issues became a turning point in her life. Witnessing how environmental policy directly affected underserved communities sparked a deep sense of purpose. Rather than remaining on the sidelines, she organized a student-led environmental town hall to educate and mobilize her peers. By translating complex policy into personal impact and inviting diverse voices into the conversation, she helped foster a sense of shared responsibility. Her efforts culminated in students showing up to advocate at a city council meeting, demonstrating the power of collective action. This experience solidified her passion for sustainability and environmental policy, showing her that leadership can drive meaningful change.

Lesira’s unique strengths lie in her ability to blend analytical thinking with creativity and empathy. As a spoken word poet inspired by storytelling and rhythm, she brings a powerful voice to everything she does, using language to connect, advocate, and lead. Whether she is running a business, mentoring peers, or addressing environmental challenges, she approaches each opportunity with resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to uplifting others.

She plans to study chemical engineering with a minor in public policy.