Five years ago, Lyrik R. and her family enrolled at Visions in search of a school where they could play an active role in shaping her educational journey.
Today, she is a 10th grader in the University Prep Early College Academy who is not only excelling academically, but also making her mark through leadership, service, and creative pursuits.
Lyrik has already set ambitious goals for her future. After graduating from Visions, she plans to attend a four-year university and eventually pursue law school. She is also passionate about film, and in addition to a career in law, aspires to produce and direct films in the future.
As a University Prep Early College student, she is already working toward that future by taking advantage of dual enrollment opportunities. Personalizing her schedule has allowed her to challenge herself academically while still making time for the activities and passions that help her grow beyond the classroom.
Having the flexibility to shape her learning experience has made all the difference.
One of the many opportunities Lyrik has embraced during her time at Visions is the Future Business Leaders Club. The club brings together students interested in business and entrepreneurship to explore ideas, build leadership skills, and learn more about the professional world.
“I have learned so much from this club, from the administrative sides of business to the traits of a good business leader,” Lyrik explained.
Since joining last school year, Lyrik has already competed in several major events. She was part of one of the inaugural Visions teams, “InnovatHERS,” at the National Junior Achievement Competition in Atlanta last June. Earlier this year, she and her business partner Yassmine S. presented the winning pitch at the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) High School Business Pitch Competition.
Her leadership and dedication have not gone unnoticed. Lyrik was recently honored with the Rising Star Award at the NAWBO Outstanding Women Leaders Award Gala. The award recognizes “an outstanding young woman who demonstrates early leadership, initiative, and potential to make a lasting impact in business, community, or public service.”
“I got chills just being in that room with so many powerful women,” Lyrik shared. “I talked with so many inspiring women who were living exactly how I aspire to live: purposefully. I definitely left that gala with a newfound confidence and motivation to become the best version of myself.”
The evening also opened new doors and connections as she continues to set goals for her future.
While Lyrik has found great success through the Future Business Leaders Club, that is only one part of her story.
At Visions, she has embraced a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. She is an active member of the Black Student Union, Visions Volleyball Club, and the California Scholarship Federation (CSF). Additionally, she currently serves as the communications lead for The Visions Quarterly, the school’s student newspaper.
Lyrik also makes it a point to attend as many school events as possible. “I really enjoy them and use them as an opportunity to socialize with other students and make new friends,” she said.
For Lyrik, personalizing her learning experience has meant more than academic success, it has allowed her to grow in the areas of life that matter most to her.
“Being a student at Visions has allowed me to have much more control over my time,” she explained. “My time is extremely valuable to me, and I appreciate being able to get a good education while still having time to work on other things that interest me.”
Outside of school, Lyrik is extremely passionate about literature and writing. She loves to read, and has cultivated a partnership with her local library to set up a book display every Black History Month.
Another way she gets involved in her local community is through the Yuba City Youth Commission. “I enjoy being able to help put events and programs together for the benefit of youth and being able to bring my unique perspective to the commission,” she explained.
Her family and her faith have been guiding forces throughout her life, as she has navigated new learning opportunities she has trusted that everything she achieves is part of a greater plan.
“I couldn’t be doing what I’m doing without the love and support of my family, who have always encouraged me to reach for my goals,” she expressed. “I give all credit to God for everything I’ve been able to accomplish.” A verse that continues to inspire her is Psalm 46:5, “God is within her, she will not fall.”
Whether she is pitching a business idea, writing a book, serving her community, or preparing for a future career in law, Lyrik approaches every opportunity with purpose and determination.
Above all, her goal remains simple yet powerful: to make a positive impact on others and inspire them to do the same.
At Visions, she is already well on her way.
