Bremen High School Students Excel in State-Wide Talent Program

Two students from Bremen High School, Maya Contreras from Midlothian and Sophia Lara from Posen, aim to be the first in their families to attend college. They have both received recognition as 2027 Distinguished Young Women of Illinois and will compete in the state segment of this national program. Both students emphasize the importance of scholarships due to their hardworking, lower-income family backgrounds from Mexico.

Maya Contreras’ Journey

Contreras actively contributes to Braves Closet, a program offering free clothing and toiletries to students in need. Her involvement with school mental health initiatives was noted by program organizers. “I always give people a chance,” said Contreras, illustrating her belief in the positive impact of kindness. Her talents were showcased through Mexican folklore dancing, rooted in the culture of her parents’ home region of Nayarit.

Contreras is involved in numerous school activities, including the National Honor Society, PEP club, and Student Council. She also participates in band, runs cross country, and helped establish a mariachi band. With aspirations in digital media and communication, her mother’s career in information technology influenced her, although she harbors dreams of acting too.

Chairwoman Tiana Pequette praised Contreras’ Folklorico dance and personality, both of which impressed the judges.

Sophia Lara’s Path

Sophia Lara also prepares to compete at the state level. She is part of Bremen’s step team, which she describes as challenging, involving both dance and the expression of emotions. Lara also engages in Fuego dancing. Her activities include being a DECA state finalist, a member of both the Student Council executive board and the varsity soccer and POMS teams. Additionally, she received the National Honor Society Merit Community Service Award.

Lara’s interest lies in healthcare, an area inspired by her mother’s experiences with asthma. She completed the Medicina Academy Apprentice Program, focusing on college readiness and healthcare research. Lara aims to become a respiratory therapist to help children on the South Side who suffer from asthma.

Judges commended Lara for her dance routine showcasing skill and strength, as well as her confidence and communication abilities during interviews.

Additional Recognition and Future Opportunities

Other finalists include Sara Ocampo and Tuleen Duweik from Andrew High School in Tinley Park. Tiana Pequette recognized the ambition and potential leadership of all finalists. The program offers coaching in talent and fitness, with a showcase event scheduled for July 26 at Carl Sandburg High School. Participants in the national finals in June 2027 will have the opportunity to win additional scholarships in Mobile, Alabama.

These are ambitious, hard-working girls who will be the future leaders of America. – Tiana Pequette

Janice Neumann, a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown, covered this inspiring story.