January 15, 2023

Dear Selection Committee:

I have known Hesha Jaranilla since her 6th grade year when she first attended the Filipino
Club on her middle school campus. As the Student Advisor & Facilitator of her Filipino
Club, I formally introduced her to Filipino culture, Filipino American history, Filipino
American community involvement, and Filipino Martial Arts training. I was very adamant
and developed a high standard for her involvement, while providing her with insight and
knowledge through this one-of-a-kind middle school club.

While moving on to Carson High School, I was not surprised to see and hear that Hesha
had become very active while seeking leadership roles in high school (e.g., EXP, LOVE,
Associated Student Body, Student Engagement); founding her own small business (e.g.,
Hyues); and volunteering, learning, and advancing her self-defense skills within the Filipino
American community (e.g., Filipino American National Historical Society, Garimot Arnis
Training).

I personally know Hesha as an individual who cares very deeply about helping others. She
has always been fascinated learning about various cultures, embracing diversity, examining
others’ experiences, and sharing stories and struggles of people within our
community. Hesha is a person with a good heart, and is very supportive of her friends,
family, and peers. She is a very positive, kind, considerate, and uplifting individual. I only
hope to see her passion grow even more as she pursues and sets her mind on higher
education.

I always look forward to reconnecting and conversing with Hesha to hear more about her
educational goals and future aspirations, along with how the lessons she learned from her
middle school club impacted her motivation and drive. With a supportive family who
always look out for her welfare and interests, I can only see positive outcomes and
assurances that Hesha will continue to perform well into her future.

If you have any questions regarding the character, attributes, ambition, and persona of
Hesha Jaranilla, please contact me directly.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ronald S. Buenaventura

Dr. Ronald S. Buenaventura, Ed.D., M.S., M.A.
President/Administrator, Filipino American National Historical Society, Los Angeles Chapter
School Psychologist, Los Angeles Unified School District
GAT Ninong & Instructor, Garimot Arnis Training (GAT), Los Angeles
Dr.Ronald.Buenaventura@gmail.com + 424.488.3846 Phone/Text