Paola Martinez

Paola Martinez was born in 2009. She has a twin brother, and they both are neurodivergent with intellectual disabilities. She enjoys going skating and drawing, which has brought her opportunities to present her artwork at various district competitions and win certificates and medals. Her favorite subjects are mathematics and science. Paola is looking forward to graduating from college so she can start her career. She has taken a role in self-advocacy with her brother: “I’m aware I can advocate for my academic necessities, functionals and independence and want to learn more about advocacy to aid me and others.”  Paola wants to learn and give back to people like her in the IDD community and help spread awareness for children with disabilities. She enjoys talking with people her age, especially younger generations, saying “I want to hear their opinions, preferences, and ideas in relation to guardianship advocacy.”