At Close the Gap Foundation (CTG), our community is our greatest strength, and a big part of that community is our incredible cohort leaders. We're excited to spotlight one of them today: Yuki. Her journey from fellow to cohort leader is a powerful example of growth, giving back, and what it truly means to lead with purpose.
From Fellow to Leader
Yuki, a high school student from Irvine, California, joined Close the Gap as a fellow in 2024. Now a rising senior, she’s returned to the program as a cohort leader. For Yuki, the opportunity to lead this year is personal and meaningful.
“It’s really been the first time where I’ve been the one serving as a teacher and as a mentor,” she said.
I had this general assumption that I lacked some of the knowledge and skills that my peers had because of my background. But being a cohort leader has made me realize that I do have something to give."
Leading Through Experience
As a first-generation immigrant who moved to the U.S. at age five and has lived in over ten cities, Yuki’s upbringing taught her the importance of empathy, adaptability, and diverse perspectives. Her leadership is rooted in inclusion. Whether it’s in student council, where she serves as treasurer, or through initiatives like Intercultural Week at her school, which she helped implement to promote cultural understanding.
Outside the classroom, Yuki is just as multifaceted. She enjoys solving jigsaw puzzles, exploring new foods, and conducting scientific research.
Yuki's interests outside the classroom.
Finding Her Way to CTG
She first found Close the Gap on Instagram while looking for summer opportunities. The fellowship’s focus on mentorship and social impact caught her eye. Once she joined, it didn’t take long for her to find inspiration from those around her.
One of the main reasons why I wanted to be a cohort leader was just how inspired I was by my cohort leader last year,” Yuki said. “She really facilitated interactions and broke down barriers between me and my fellow cohort members.”
Now, Yuki is paying it forward. She is guiding new fellows through the same experience she once had, helping them overcome nerves, build community, and complete their summer social impact projects.
What she’s discovered in the process goes beyond leadership. Through CTG, she’s found connection. As Yuki looks ahead to college and beyond, she’s interested in a career that intersects with policy, mentorship, and service.
CTG made me realize how much I enjoy mentoring and assisting others with their journey,” she said. “I might want to pursue something like that in the future.”
Yuki’s story is a reminder that leadership comes in many forms. Sometimes, the most powerful impact begins with simply showing up, giving back, and believing in your own voice.