Representation matters. This podcast highlights real stories of people who’ve built careers and confidence by showing up as their full selves. Because you’re not “too much” or “unprofessional”; you’re simply redefining what success looks like.

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Pedro Cruz is the inaugural Executive Director of the City of Boston’s Office of Youth Engagement & Advancement (OYEA), launched under the Wu Administration in 2023. Over the past few years, Pedro has led the office in building its foundation and shaping a citywide vision for youth leadership, equity, and opportunity. Under his leadership, OYEA has built a network of 1,700 youth-serving professionals across 450+ youth-serving organizations to help break down the silos and to better serve the young residents of Boston. His office launched Boston After Dark to provide safe and vibrant evening programming, and deepened investments in civic engagement through initiatives like the Mayor’s Youth Council and the Mayor’s Youth Summit. His work has positioned OYEA as a central hub for elevating youth voices and ensuring young people are at the forefront of decision-making in Boston.

A lifelong Bostonian, first-generation Puerto Rican, and proud Boston Public Schools graduate, Pedro brings his lived experience and organizing background to every aspect of his work. Beyond his professional work, Pedro is a proud father of three daughters and an accomplished artist, and a lifelong youth advocate. He remains deeply connected to his roots and community, believing that every young person in Boston deserves access to safe spaces, creative opportunities, and pathways to thrive as the city’s next generation of leaders.