Meet Young Leaders Award recipient Brayan Cruz (He/They) is based on the traditional lands of the Acjachemen people in Santa Ana, CA. Their work centers on preserving culture through seeds, food, and land stewardship. Rooted in lived experience, community knowledge, and cultural traditions, they focus on urban gardening and restorative farming practices, actively supporting food and seed sovereignty initiatives. Committed to intergenerational healing and justice, Brayan sees their work as part of a larger responsibility—to care for the land, protect cultural knowledge, and ensure future generations have access to traditional foods and cooking materials for holistic well-being.