Duyen Le

Born and raised in New Bedford, Duyen was part of the initial cohort for the Young Women’s Advisory Council and is now returning as a Peer Mentor for the next group. Being a first-generation American of two Vietnamese immigrants, she recognized the reality of living in America as a woman of color and the challenges that came with it. Throughout her life, she was often praised for her public speaking, which inspired her to use this skill to advocate for those who are oppressed and powerless. She challenges the normalcy of being a bystander to the politics of the world with audacity, bringing her knowledge, experience, and power into each interaction she takes on in her life.

Growing up in the projects of Westlawn, Duyen brings the perspective of many throughout New Bedford with low-economic upbringings. She recognizes the intersectionality of identity within New Bedford and understands the dual reality of the beauty and struggles in the area. An alumna of Our Sisters’ School, activism and politics were never topics to shy away from, and she continues to empower herself toward the fight for justice. She has been involved in the Student Advisory Council at New Bedford High School, volunteer events in the surrounding areas, and continues to advocate and speak on the issues of our world and New Bedford.

Connection is one of the most important things to Duyen, especially within her community. For over five years, she has worked with the youth of New Bedford through boating at the community-run organization Community Boating Center. The connections she has made with youth through this opportunity have shaped her world, and she will carry them with her forever. She is now a senior at New Bedford High School and continues to stay involved and connected to the faculty, staff, and student populace. She is currently involved in a Social Media Internship with the College & Career Center at New Bedford High, helping expand knowledge about higher education for the youth in New Bedford—an often low statistic. She plans to major in Communications with a focus in Public Relations and Political Science to further her reach and communication of activism, hoping to make actual policy reform in our world.