Elevating Leadership: Jazlyn Escribano's Journey to New Heights at PEAK

In the Spring of 2022, Jazlyn Escribano visited PEAK for the first time to apply for the Leaders in Training program. Even though she had not previously been a PEAK participant like many other LTs, she demonstrated an immediate understanding of what it meant to be an integral part of PEAK. “As she started talking about what leadership meant to her and what she wanted to be… she really was looking for a space at that time to be involved in her community and build relationships and friendships,” explained Lila Saavedra, Director of Teen and Community Programs.

Jaz found exactly what she was looking for at PEAK. Although she had to adapt quickly to PEAK culture, Jaz jumped right in and participated in almost every program once she was accepted into the LT program. Since joining PEAK, Jaz has received the full LT experience. She’s been a part of the Youth Leadership Series and Learn to Lead, worked as a Community Ambassador, held a PEAK Internship, and most memorably, went on the annual Travel Camp trip.

Unlike other LTs who’ve been able to have the full camp experience, Travel Camp was the trip first of its kind for Jaz. Quitting wasn’t an option for her, and she continued challenging herself by volunteering to be the first of her friends to climb the sixty foot ropes course. It was a long and difficult journey, and through determination, resilience, and the support of her community, she was able to make it all the way to the top and back down. She was greeted at the bottom by a chorus of cheers from her peers and returned the encouragement as she watched everyone else climb the tower after her.

Jaz embodies the spirit of PEAK and the LT program, constantly moving forward with intention and a growth mindset. “Watching her step up more and more every time, it just shows that she’s building her confidence. She’s stepping up into her voice. I’m so thankful to know her as a teen because I can’t wait to see who she is as an adult,” said Mariah Johnson, PEAK’s Teen and Community Manager.

Jaz is still in the LT program and is reaching new heights as a leader. This summer, Jaz will be attending Lake Valley Camp as an LT Intern, and the Teen and Community team couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the rest of her PEAK journey.