Bridgette Luna Granillo, a senior at Maryvale Prep [1], has been named the Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year [2] for District 5. Nominated by City Councilwoman Betty Guardado [3], Granillo was honored for her exceptional achievements, leadership, and service to the community.
[4]
The announcement is part of the Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year [2] program, which celebrates high school students who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to their schools and neighborhoods. Each year, 16 students, one from each Phoenix City Council district, are selected and recognized at a special city event. All district winners receive a cash award and are featured in official city publications.
Granillo recently attended a recognition luncheon, joined by her parents, Maryvale Prep’s [1] college counselor Georgy Ayala, and Headmaster Rachel Mercado.
[5]
“Being awarded the District 5 Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year [2] was a huge honor,” Granillo said. “It meant a lot to be recognized for giving back to the community that gave us so much. I felt proud and motivated, knowing it would open more opportunities to serve and grow. Most of all, it showed me that my efforts were making a real impact.”
[6]
Granillo’s passion for service and education is rooted in her family’s journey. “What inspires me to always do my best in school, my community, and with my friends is the fact that I come from a family of immigrants who came here with nothing and still gave me so many opportunities,” she said. “They cared deeply about my education and always worked hard to give me a better life.”
She credits several mentors at Maryvale Prep [1] for encouraging her to find her voice and purpose: “Teachers like Ms. Hill and Ms. Vaughn pushed me to advocate for myself and use my voice—not just for me, but for others who can’t speak up for themselves. Mrs. Ayala and Principal Mercado also encouraged me to do better because they saw potential in me that I didn’t even recognize in myself.”
Granillo was also draws inspiration from her community outreach work [7] and family experiences. “The children I met during my Kids Talks [7] in my community, some of whom were in foster care or didn’t speak English and faced traumatic events, also inspire me. They remind me every day to keep giving back to my community. I am also inspired by my uncle, who faced a life-changing car accident, and it motivates me to advocate for mental health and its importance.”
[8]
“Bridgette stood out because of her unwavering commitment to service and her deep love for the Maryvale community. She consistently shows up with purpose, kindness, and a clear vision for positive change,” explained Councilwoman Betty Guardado. “Her leadership is rooted in empathy and action—two qualities that truly define what it means to be a youth leader in our district.”
With her heart for service, strong work ethic, and deep connection to her community, Bridgette Luna Granillo is a great example of how young people can make a real difference. She’s already showing what it looks like to lead with purpose and compassion.
Do you have a story or know of one that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts? Please contact jmoore@greatheartsamerica.org [9].
Submit a student application to a Great Hearts Academy by visiting: https://www.greatheartsamerica.org/enroll/ [10].