Acesapon Bansasine
Acesapon is a first-generation Lao American who is committed to academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Through Air Force ROTC, athletics, and volunteering in the Lao community, he has developed strong leadership and discipline. He plans to pursue a career as a trauma surgeon in the United States Air Force and continues to represent his culture through traditional music and dance. Fun fact, he plays the Khaen.
Brooklynn Thongkham
Brooklynn is a student leader and founder of her school’s Lao Culture Club, where she has helped promote Lao culture through performances and community events. She plans to study aerospace engineering and hopes to increase representation for women and Lao Americans in STEM fields.
Deeanna Anousaya
Deeanna is a student athlete and team captain who plans to pursue a career in the medical field and become a neonatologist. After volunteering at Sharp Grossmont Hospital, she discovered her passion for caring for infants and is committed to continuing her education and serving her community.
Evelyn Simsuangco
Evelyn is a mechanical engineering student at San Diego State University who is passionate about innovation, community service, and cultural preservation. She has represented Lao culture through traditional dance and is actively involved in engineering organizations and service programs such as Engineers Without Borders.
Karly Prasuvo
Karly is a student leader, tutor, and community volunteer who plans to pursue a degree in biology on a pre-med track. She has organized food drives, mentored younger students, and stayed actively involved in both school and community service, while continuing to stay connected to her Lao heritage.
Michael Schaffer-Oudinarath
Michael is a student leader and Youth Ambassador with the Lao American Organization of San Diego who has dedicated many years to community service, advocacy, and cultural education. He plans to study economics and hopes to work in financial education and community advocacy to help underserved communities. Michael has been part of LAOSD since he was 10.
Sirirack Sukhaseum
Sirirack 'Sara' is a dedicated student leader at UC San Diego who has served as a college orientation leader and board member of the Laotian American Student Association, where she mentors and supports fellow students. She is studying international business and global health and hopes to become a foreign service officer, working internationally to build relationships and serve diverse communities.