Women are underrepresented in politics and Zaniya Lewis wants to change that. A sophomore at the Catholic University of America, Zaniya plans to graduate in 2020 and head to law school to begin her career in public office. She has big dreams and wants to ultimately become the President of the United States of America. The New Jersey native is a winner of both our #MyDream2017 and #HowiInnovate Challenges. Zaniya has our vote!

What is your professional dream?

My professional dream is work in public service and government and one day, to become President of the United States of America. I dream of breaking that highest glass ceiling, so that girls all around the world know that they too can accomplish their dreams.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Fund grant?

I will use the 1,000 Dreams Fund grant to attend a Women in Advocacy and Politics Workshop that will help me learn how to run for political office and give me tools to accomplish my dream of becoming a politician.

How is this helping you get closer to your dream?

This workshop is helping me get closer to my dreams because it will give me the tools to run for political office. I believe youth can enact change. I want to keep making a difference by running for political office in the next four years.

What advice do you have for other young women looking to go for their dreams?

I would say, never give up on your dreams, stay true to yourself  and to always be willing to take advantage of any opportunity.

​Any setbacks? How did you get around them?

Yes, I have many setbacks, whether it was not getting a scholarship or a job I wanted. But I use those setbacks as motivation to keep going. I believe you should always try because anything is possible.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

After attending the workshop, I will be planning my run for office at the local level. I will graduate college in 2020 and I hope to attend law school. I will continue to serve my community because community service and advocacy are my passions.