Marianna Meléndez Ruiz
San Juan
Summary
Dedicated 12th-grade student at Academia María Reina focused on political science and international relations, particularly regarding Latin America. Leveraging a dynamic Puerto Rican diaspora background, I explore diverse political landscapes. My experiences in Latino communities in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., along with my recent relocation to San Juan, prepare me for cross-functional leadership, public policy, and political strategy. Through ongoing internships and commitments, I develop strong skills in research, advocacy, and community engagement, striving to advance equity, justice, and governance in Latin America, especially in Puerto Rico.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Co-Founder
Organismo Boricua
San Juan
09.2024 - Current
- Co-founded a think tank focused on rebuilding Puerto Rican society through a sovereign lens.
- Collaborated with 7 Puerto Rican professionals to address key socio-political issues.
- Organized inaugural meetings, initiating subgroups for media campaigns, youth outreach, and political engagement.
- Developed connections with local youth leaders and politicians to amplify initiatives.
Political Intern
Oficina de Servicios Legislativos
06.2024 - Current
- Conduct detailed research on legislative issues, track bill progress, and draft measures.
- Assist with constituent services and support community event coordination.
- Analyze existing legislation to identify areas of interest or concern.
- Conduct interviews with stakeholders regarding key issues.
Legislative Intern
Senate of Puerto Rico
06.2023 - Current
- Advocated for the interests of young citizens, observing efforts toward progressive legislation.
- Attended legislative sessions, analyzing federal documents and documenting initiatives for youth organizations.
- Collaborated with MVC team to promote civic engagement among citizens.
National Hispanic Institute Member and Puerto Rico Recruiter
National Hispanic Institute (NHI)
07.2022 - Current
- First SSFS student to attend the program, leading recruitment for Latinx students.
- Organized recruitment events alongside NHI Vice President, Julio Cotto, and NHI Puerto Rico President, Leticia Marrero.
- Recruited the highest number of participants from Puerto Rico.
- Maintained a steady database of potential participants from Puerto Rico
Photographer
Independant
San Juan
08.2021 - Current
- Specializing in capturing political protests and events.
- Documented rallies and campaigns for Movimiento Victoria Ciudadana.
- Produced high-quality images for portfolios and publications, focusing on social justice causes.
Harvard Youth Leadership Conference Ambassador
Harvard YLC
San Juan
05.2024 - 09.2024
- Served as an ambassador for the Harvard Youth Lead the Change (YLC) program, leading recruitment efforts across Puerto Rico.
- Spearheaded the recruitment of over 100 students from various regions of the island for the largest inaugural YLC event in Puerto Rico's history.
- Organized social media outreach campaigns to engage students in leadership development.
- Collaborated with Harvard staff for successful conference logistics.
Harvard LEAD Ambassador
Harvard LEAD Organization
San Juan
10.2023 - 02.2024
- Represented Puerto Rico, Latin America, and Academia María Reina at the Harvard Latina Empowerment and Development (LEAD) Conference.
- Represented Puerto Rico at the Harvard LEAD Conference, leading a delegation of 16 young women.
- Organized pre-conference workshops on leadership and professional growth.
- Fostered mentorship opportunities among Latina leaders across industries.
- Collaborated with Harvard staff and fellow ambassadors to plan and execute conference events and panels.
Spanish Language and Culture Tutor
Self-employed
09.2022 - 07.2023
- Tutored Spanish language and culture to Afro-French and Central American immigrants.
- Developed tailored lesson plans and maintained communication with teachers to track student progress.
Education
Academia María Reina
San Juan, Puerto Rico06.2025
Sandy Spring Friends School
Sandy Spring, Maryland06.2023
Skills
- Community Outreach
- Government relations
- Policy Analysis
- Speech Writing
- Public Policy
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB)
- Latinx Representation
- Legislative Research
- Policy Analysis
Languages
Spanish
First Language
English
Proficient (C2)
C2
Portuguese
Intermediate (B1)
B1
Accomplishments
- National Hispanic Institute - Great Debate Cross-Examination 1st Place Champion
- Public Forum Debate Metrofinals Qualifier
- National Hispanic Institute - Supreme Court Justice
- Model United Nations Best Delegation (2x)
- Model United Nations Distinguished Delegation (1x)
- AP Scholar
Timeline
Co-Founder
Organismo Boricua
09.2024 - Current
Political Intern
Oficina de Servicios Legislativos
06.2024 - Current
Harvard Youth Leadership Conference Ambassador
Harvard YLC
05.2024 - 09.2024
Harvard LEAD Ambassador
Harvard LEAD Organization
10.2023 - 02.2024
Legislative Intern
Senate of Puerto Rico
06.2023 - Current
Spanish Language and Culture Tutor
Self-employed
09.2022 - 07.2023
National Hispanic Institute Member and Puerto Rico Recruiter
National Hispanic Institute (NHI)
07.2022 - Current
Photographer
Independant
08.2021 - Current
Academia María Reina
Sandy Spring Friends School
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