Our Impact in Action
Every story represents confidence built, opportunity unlocked, and leadership in motion.
Your Support Makes These Stories Possible
Every donation helps open doors, build confidence, and create pathways to leadership.
At LEAD Futures, impact is measured in people— in the confidence gained, the skills developed, and the leaders who rise to give forward. These scholars represent what’s possible when mentorship, opportunity, and belief come together.
San Diego Miramar College · Second Year
Future Focus: Software & Computer Engineering
Anchal has been fascinated by how machines work from a young age, always asking “why” and “how.” Her curiosity grew into a passion for technology after taking computer science classes in high school, where she discovered the power of logic and creativity.
She has completed all available computer science coursework at her school and gained hands-on experience as a web development intern for a nonprofit. Now studying computer engineering, Anchal plans to transfer to a four-year university to continue building impactful technology.
Fun Fact: Loves making beaded bracelets and clay figurines
Anchal Verma
University of California, San Diego · Class of 2028
Future Focus: Bioengineer working wearable technology!
Asia is a bioengineering student and the first‑generation American in a family of seven. From an early age, she understood that attending a four‑year university would require significant personal effort and responsibility. Throughout K–12, she balanced academics with extensive community service, including environmental clean‑ups and volunteering at Kaiser Permanente.
She graduated as high school valedictorian and earned multiple scholarships, including support from the Foundation, allowing her to complete her education debt‑free. Currently, Asia works part‑time while carrying a demanding 18–20 unit course load. She notes, pressure builds diamonds.
Fun Fact: She has nine different ear piercings.
Asia Ong
University of California, Santa Barbara · Class of 2027
Future Focus: Data Science, AI & Cybersecurity
Chesney is a Statistics and Data Science major with a strong interest in applying technology to public policy, security, and social impact. She is passionate about using data and research to help organizations balance innovation with privacy, ethics, and trust.
On campus, Chesney works as a Data Reporter for The Daily Nexus, volunteers as a coding mentor with Girls Who Code, and participates in club beach volleyball and rock climbing. She is also active in a women-in-STEM sorority, where she has built meaningful academic and personal connections.
Fun Fact: Took her first coding class in elementary school and now teaches coding to others
Chesney Macdonald
MiraCosta College · Class of 2026
Future Focus: Software Engineering, AI & Machine Learning
Dayana is passionate about computer science because it challenges her to think creatively while solving real-world problems. She is especially drawn to software engineering for its ability to turn ideas into meaningful tools and experiences. Currently exploring artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity, Dayana is committed to continuous learning and growth.
Grateful for the mentors who supported her journey, she hopes to give back by guiding future students in STEM. Outside of academics, Dayana enjoys reading, gaming with friends, and watching horror movies.
Fun Fact: Loves horror movies
Dayana Pascual Sanchez
University of California, San Diego · Class of 2028
Future Focus: Software Engineering
Cathlyn is a Computer Science major with minors in Business and Design, driven by a desire to create technology that is both functional and human-centered. Her early experiences working alongside her grandfather, a mechanical engineer, inspired her curiosity and love for building.
She brings creativity and strategy together through her work in HTML/CSS, Java, C, C++, and Python. By blending technical skill with design and business insight, Cathlyn aims to build intuitive, impactful solutions that make everyday life easier.
Fun Fact: Loves customizing her first-generation Lexus IS300
Cathlyn Goldberg
University of California, Los Angeles · Class of 2028
Future Focus: Software Engineering
Khang discovered her love for computer science in high school, where learning concepts like recursion sparked her passion for problem-solving and systems thinking. She enjoys exploring diverse areas of technology, including security, operating systems, and algorithm efficiency.
As a member of the EVOTEK community, Khang found encouragement and connection that strengthened her commitment to a career in tech. She is currently studying software construction, computer organization, and data structures, and has a summer internship with Microsoft working on software engineering and product management skills. Khang hopes to use her career to give back and expand access to technology for others.
Fun Fact: Enjoys writing, reading, and baking
Khang Nguyen