Self-introduction: My name is Bryan Chen, a senior at Valley Christian High School in California. In February 2024, as a sophomore at Valley Christian High School in California, I saw a problem: while the world is more connected than ever, youth voices in cross-cultural exchange often go unheard. I envisioned an organization led by American youth that could transcend national and cultural boundaries to promote meaningful cultural heritage and exchange. With guidance from the president of the US-China Culture Communication Association (USCCA) and after nearly three months of planning, I launched the USCCA Youth Division. On August 28, 2024, we officially registered as the Youth Horizons Cultural Connection Association (YHCCA)—an nonprofit dedicated to bridging cultures through service, arts, and education. As president and founder, I have led and participated in a wide range of projects, from coordinating donations of educational resources and PPE to communities and hospital in need , both locally and internationally, to design outreach materials to raise awareness. I’ve acted as host in large-scale visual arts exhibitions, I’ve also spearheaded awareness campaigns for public health and education equity, combining my passions for visual arts, business strategy, and leadership. My school roles as FBLA Outreach Director and DECA team leader have sharpened my ability to collaborate, innovate, and turn ideas into results. Community service has been central to my life since childhood, and my work has earned me the U.S. President’s Gold Volunteer Service Award for three consecutive years. More than awards, these experiences have taught me that leadership is not just about taking initiative—it’s about listening, connecting, and inspiring action across cultures. I’m committed to building a future where compassion and collaboration are the global language.
