Meet Yuridia Ramirez Manzano, Exemplary Youth of the Year from Eau Claire High School and Berrien Cass Van Buren Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates, a program of Youth Solutions

Yuridia Ramirez Manzano has long been a leader—both in her school and within her family. As the oldest child, she has taken on the responsibility of serving as her family’s primary English speaker and advocate since the age of eight, helping navigate everything from doctor’s appointments to daily life. While Yuridia has navigated the realities of a modest household, she has done so surrounded by a loving family that has kept her grounded. This support has helped her stay focused on her education, staying on track to graduate at the top of her class all while paving the way to become the first in her family to attend college.

Despite her academic success, Yuridia’s journey has not been without challenges. Carrying the weight of family responsibilities at a young age, she often put others first while quietly navigating her own goals. Naturally shy and reserved, stepping into leadership roles and speaking up in new environments did not always come easily. Still, her determination and strong sense of purpose, especially her dream of becoming a nurse, kept her moving forward.

Through her involvement in Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG), Yuridia found opportunities to grow beyond her comfort zone and fully step into her leadership potential. With support from her specialists, Anita Jones, from Eau Claire High School and Tim Nichols, from Berrien Cass Van Buren JMG, she developed confidence in public speaking, strengthened her networking skills, and embraced new experiences that expanded her vision for the future.

Yuridia quickly became a role model among her peers. She has led and co-planned community service projects and fundraisers, including helping raise more than $4,000 for her senior class trip. She has supported blood drives, volunteered at school and community events, and even played a key role in advocating for and helping launch her school’s first soccer program. A dedicated mentor to others, Yuridia regularly encourages fellow students, especially Hispanic youth, to stay motivated, build resilience, and believe in their potential.

“Her ‘nice’ and ‘kind’ demeanor isn’t just a personality trait; it is a core value. She treats everyone with dignity, a quality that is essential for a future healthcare professional,” shared Jones.

Her growth was especially evident during her Growth Internship experience with Corewell Health, where weekly reflections and group discussions helped her come out of her shell. By sharing her story and learning from others, Yuridia gained confidence and realized the power of her voice. She carried that momentum forward into a year-long, paid internship with Corewell Health, where she is gaining hands-on experience in the healthcare field while continuing to excel academically.

“Yuridia is the definition of consistency and quiet strength,” shared Nichols. “She leads by example, always gives back to others, and has fully embraced every opportunity to learn and grow.”

Today, Yuridia stands as a testament to perseverance and purpose. She is graduating at the top of her class, has earned her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential, and is enrolled in a two-year program at Southwestern Michigan College with plans to transfer to a four-year institution to become a registered nurse. Through it all, she continues to balance school, work, and family responsibilities with grace and determination.

Yuridia’s story reflects the transformational impact of JMG—empowering students to overcome barriers, build confidence, and pursue meaningful careers. Her leadership, humility, and commitment to helping others make her a true inspiration to her school and community.

Congratulations, Yuridia, on being recognized as the Southwest Michigan Exemplary Youth of the Year at the 2026 Career Development Conference! We are proud of all you’ve accomplished and excited for the bright future ahead!