During his six-year trajectory at the Club, Bryan Melendez has developed his leadership and commitment to the community. His volunteer work in the Club’s kitchen led him to discover his passion for the culinary arts. Furthermore, his participation in the Club’s Entrepreneurship Program prompted him to create and launch his “Bryan Cookies & Treats” brand.
“Upon achieving a higher education, I wish to enter the University of Puerto Rico to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing. Then, I want to take a culinary arts course to create my own restaurant,” says the 17-year-old, who created the “We are all Equal” project with fellow Club members to raise awareness on functional diversity and equal opportunities for all.
What obstacle or challenge have you experienced?
“My life has gone by without any major setbacks other than those typical of adolescence. But, perhaps I can admit that I was an insecure, shy, quiet and unsocial young man. This was influenced by the fact that since I was a child I felt the responsibility to take care of my younger brother, who is autistic. Thanks to the leaders of my Clubhouse, I understood that I had the opportunity to be in a safe space where being the older brother would not require greater responsibilities, since my brother did not love going to the Club. I understood that this space could be for my personal and professional growth, and it has been so until today.
What characteristics should a leader have?
“A good leader must be empathic, respectful, helpful, visionary, a good communicator, committed to the common good, charismatic, honest, responsible, and a role model.