30 Under 30: Sarah Funes

We recently asked you to nominate young leaders living or working in North San Mateo County for Patch's "30 under 30" series recognizing young leaders.

We've been impressed by the talented and influential young people in our area. We'll continue publishing profiles regularly until we hit 30, and we invite you to continue sending nominations of people who you feel should be honored. To nominate someone, send an email to drew@patch.com with the person's name, contact information and a short description of why they are a young leader.

Name: Sarah Funes 

Age: 20

Schools Attended: Alta Loma High School, South San Francisco High School, College of San Mateo

Residence: South San Francisco 

Occupation: Student and Human Rights Advocate

Why did you choose your industry or field?

I started doing disability work locally, and then state wide, and eventually internationally.

How did you get into that area?

I was diagnosed with a brain tumor and became disabled and after years decided to make a difference with the life I was given.

What kind of challenges have you faced? How did you overcome them?

I was diagnosed with cancer and I survived,  I graduated high school because I worked harder than most people can dream in my situation, even when the school was unwilling to see that I could graduate. I'm about to transfer to CSM although I've never taken a full load because of my health. 

Who inspires you?

My mother, Dave Delang, my mobility instructor from my years at Alta Loma and South San Francisco High, Frida Kahlo, my teachers who believed in me when no one else did and my friends who have similar lives as myself and are succeeding.

What is your advice for aspiring leaders?

Do what you think is right no matter what. Be true to who you are, take a stand when something needs to change, never seek other peoples approval, yours is the only one that should matter and work hard!