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My Voice: Finding the Power in My Voice and Strength in My Self-Advocacy

Picture of Maraya Gonzelez outdoors in rose colored fleece

As the school year comes to a close for many of us, I wanted to introduce myself, as well as reflect on how incredible this school year has been, and its many lessons it brought.  

My name is Maraya Gonzalez, and I am the new Youth Engagement Coordinator at  CPAC. Being a youth myself, as well as having plenty of lived experience, I am deeply  passionate about self-advocacy, youth voice, independence, and empowering others to develop pride in who they are.  

Since working for CPAC, I have had some awesome conversations with the Youth Advisory Board (YAB) members, and am excited to see what new and exciting things we get into moving forward.  

Aside from working at CPAC, I am also currently a student at a CT State Community College. That being said, I can’t help but reflect on all the insightful lessons and experiences this experience has brought my way. This school year has been one full of growth, lessons, challenges, and great achievements.  

One of the biggest lessons I learned is that there are more “Can-do’s” than there are “Can’t do’s.” I realized it is all dependent on one’s mindset. Oftentimes, it isn’t a matter of “I can’t” but rather a matter of “I can, but it may look slightly different for me than it might for others.” This is especially true as a college student.  

We often hear things like “you can’t do this because you have a disability, so let's work around it or find alternatives.” Statements like these are meant to be understanding and accommodating, especially, but they also set the expectation for feelings of failure or insufficiency.  

This school year, I was lucky enough to have a professor who believed in me greatly. It often felt like on the days when I had higher amounts of self-doubt, she believed in me for both of us. 

While preparing to secure a location for my required internship, I experienced a lot of self-doubt in my ability to do so, in fear that I would be rejected due to my visual disability. I remember being so anxious, and in my head. However, with strong support from staff, professors, family/friends, and lots of patience. I was in fact able to secure a  placement. It actually turned out to be the best place I could have ever imagined to  intern at.  

Throughout the semester, I learned that patience and determination were what was going to help me reach all my goals. I also learned that using my voice to advocate for my needs is not a burden or an inconvenience, but rather an independent skill, as well as an essential part of what it means to be successful as a student, professional, and  adult. 


Yes, there were many times I found myself feeling guilty or scared to speak up, but I  was fortunate enough to have support in place that was very patient with me in helping me work through those fears and anxieties. Today, I can confidently say that I no longer feel that shame or guilt when it comes to advocating for my needs or asking for help. Sure, I still feel that is something I will continuously have to work on, but I feel more confident and self-aware in the best way possible.  

As we approach summer, I invite and encourage all of you to take some time to reflect  on all of your accomplishments and growth this school year. You did it! Now, let's celebrate you and all of your hard work! And remember, whatever the school may have looked like for you, every step forward counts. 

by Maraya Gonzalez


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