Edison Tech seniors step into the spotlight as they proudly represent Monroe County at a prestigious Puerto Rican and Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute in New York State

Rochester, New York – Two seniors from Edison Career and Technology High School are drawing attention for their leadership and determination after representing Monroe County at a prestigious statewide program designed to empower young voices and prepare future leaders.

Elijah Espada and Ni-Jana Ortiz recently took part in the Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute, widely known as PR/HYLI, a program that brings together students from across New York to explore government, advocacy, and civic engagement. Their journey culminated in a trip to Albany, where they joined a select delegation of student leaders, each chosen to represent their communities and contribute to meaningful discussions about real-world issues.

The opportunity did not come easily. For months, beginning in January and stretching into April, both students committed themselves to a demanding schedule of preparation sessions. These trainings, organized by the Mid-West Regional Bilingual Education Resource Network at Monroe 2 Orleans BOCES, focused on building a strong understanding of how government works at the state level. Participants studied the legislative process, examined community concerns, and learned how to navigate formal procedures used in lawmaking.

By the time they arrived in Albany, Espada and Ortiz were not just observers—they were ready to participate. Their experience reached its peak during a Mock Assembly session held on the actual floor of the New York State Assembly. Sitting in the same seats used by elected officials, the students debated a topic that continues to shape modern society: artificial intelligence. The exercise challenged them to think critically, speak confidently, and engage with differing viewpoints in a structured and respectful way.

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For Espada, the experience brought an added layer of recognition. During the sessions, he was voted by his peers as an “outstanding delegate,” a distinction that reflects both leadership ability and the respect he earned among fellow participants. The honor does not mark the end of his journey. Instead, it opens the door to another major opportunity—this June, he will travel to Washington DC, where he is expected to meet with elected officials and advocate for issues that matter to his community back in Rochester.

While Espada’s individual achievement stands out, the broader story is one of shared commitment and growth. Both students embraced the program as a chance to step beyond the classroom and into a space where their ideas could carry weight. Their participation highlights not only their personal drive but also the role schools and community programs play in nurturing leadership skills among young people.

The Rochester City School District recognized their accomplishment as a meaningful milestone, noting that their work reflects the promise of the next generation. Programs like PR/HYLI are designed to do exactly that—equip students with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to engage with the issues shaping their communities and their future.

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For Ortiz, the experience of collaborating with peers from across the state offered a new perspective, one shaped by diverse voices and shared goals. For Espada, the recognition he received underscores the impact students can have when given the opportunity to lead and be heard.

Together, their journey serves as a reminder that leadership is not something that suddenly appears—it is built over time, through effort, curiosity, and a willingness to step forward. As they return to Rochester, both students carry with them not only the memory of their time in Albany but also the responsibility and inspiration to continue making a difference.

Their story stands as a powerful example of what can happen when preparation meets opportunity. And for a city that continues to invest in its youth, it offers a glimpse into a future shaped by informed, engaged, and determined leaders.