Two Bremen High School students, Maya Contreras and Sophia Lara, are preparing for a remarkable milestone as they plan to become the first in their families to attend college. Both have received a significant boost in their journey, being named the 2027 Distinguished Young Women of Illinois. This recognition offers them the opportunity to compete at the state level of the national program.
Coming from hardworking, lower-income families, with parents originally from Mexico, scholarships are crucial for their college ambitions. Their involvement in the Distinguished Young Women of Illinois program is a promising step towards achieving their educational dreams.
Maya Contreras: A Blend of Talent and Education
Maya Contreras, who resides in Midlothian, is an exemplary student actively engaged in various school activities. She volunteers at Braves Closet, a program providing clothing and toiletries to students in need. Maya also supports mental health initiatives at her school and her efforts were recognized by organizers of the Distinguished Young Women of Illinois.
“I always give people a chance,” Maya said. “I think a little kindness goes a long way.”
The competition permits Maya to connect with others and showcase her talents, including Mexican folklore dancing from Nayarit, closely tied to her family’s cultural roots. Her performance and kind nature impressed chairwoman Tiana Pequette and the judges.
Academically, Maya is active in the National Honor Society, PEP club, poms, speech team, and Student Council. She co-founded the school’s mariachi band and participates in band, jazz ensemble, theater, and cross-country running. Influenced by her mother’s career in information technology, Maya aspires to work in digital media and communication, but also harbors dreams of acting.
Sophia Lara: Combining Passion and Purpose
Fellow student Sophia Lara, originally from Posen, shares the excitement of competing at the state level. She is involved in dance and athletics, participating in the school’s step team, a skill demanding expressive emotions, energy, and precision.
Sophia’s experience includes the DECA state finals, Student Council executive board, varsity soccer team, and varsity POMS squad. She also earned a National Honor Society Merit Community Service Award. Her passion lies in healthcare, inspired by her studies at the University of Illinois Chicago’s Medicina Academy Apprentice Program and a summer research project at Anne and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital.
Sophia aims to address asthma issues among Black and Mexican-born children on the South Side, aspiring to become a respiratory therapist. Her family, especially her mother, who works with disabled and immigrant children, greatly influences her pursuit of high standards.
“I understand how breath is an important aspect of living,” Sophia said. “I want to be sure to help as many as I can improve their standard of living.”
The judges recognized Sophia for her step dance and communication skills. Pequette noted Sophia’s confidence and ability to articulate her goals, leaving a lasting impression.
Promising Future for South Suburban Finalists
Other finalists include Sara Ocampo and Tuleen Duweik from Andrew High School. These ambitious individuals demonstrate dedication, as highlighted by Pequette.
The participants will receive coaching from talent and fitness experts and gain valuable experience. The final showcase occurs on July 26 at 3 p.m. at Carl Sandburg High School in Orland Park, with public ticket availability and scholarships to be awarded at an ensuing ceremony. Those recognized as the 2027 Distinguished Young Women of Illinois can look forward to competing nationally in Mobile, Alabama, for additional scholarship opportunities.