We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Juan Acosta. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Juan below.
Juan, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
For me, being able to draft a historic LGBTQ+ proclamation for my hometown of Woodland, California, was the moment I released myself from many insecurities and was reaffirmed in my mission as an individual. That moment allowed me to be confident in my voice and committing to my passion for change has forever changed my life. Since then I’ve been able to speak about things I’m passionate about alongside leaders like Dr. Jill Biden, Selena Gomez, Dr. Vivek Murthy, and other youth mental health leaders throughout the nation. I love to say that I am more than one moment because there’s so much more that define our journey. I continue focused on finding my next defining moments that will lead to even more personal growth.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
I started my work out of my own need for survival. I was going through a lot of things at a young age. I realized that my identity and people’s perception of me was having an impact on my mental health so I decided to speak out in hopes that other youth would have more supportive environments and resources. At first it was difficult because as a first generation college student and I had to figure out many things on my own. These experiences made me believe in myself and strive for better. I believe people deserve to thrive not just survive.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
A lesson I had to unlearn was that I should play it safe. Society oftentimes looks at people who are outside the box through a judgmental lens and I wanted to break that norm. I learned that you have to believe in yourself, bet on yourself, and cheer yourself on in order to accomplish one’s dreams. I now encourage others to take risks and to believe in themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.juanacostaofficial.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juanacosta__/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acostajuann?mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-acosta-737959138?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios
- Twitter: https://x.com/JUANACOSTA__
