For the past five years, Power California Action (PCA) has been at the forefront of empowering young Californians to take charge of their communities and fight for a more just and equitable state. At the heart of this mission is Astrid Morales, a dedicated organizer whose journey from volunteer to full-time advocate reflects the organization’s commitment to youth-driven change.

Morales, who grew up in a low-income neighborhood in Southeast Los Angeles, was first inspired by PCA’s work in her community. “I wanted my younger siblings to grow up in a community better than the one I had,” she said. What started as volunteer work quickly turned into a full-time passion—Morales has now been with the organization for four years.

PCA focuses on issues that directly impact working-class and immigrant communities across the state. Their current initiatives include advocating for rent control in the Central Valley, fighting for immigrant rights and supporting statewide policies such as the Polluter Pays Act, which holds corporations accountable for environmental harm. The organization is also addressing modern challenges, such as AI and data privacy, and is pushing to make voter registration part of the school curriculum.

Beyond policy work, Morales emphasizes the importance of community connection through education and creativity. The group hosts monthly workshops that range from resume-building and poetry to “artivism”—a blend of art and activism designed to help young people express themselves while tackling real-world issues. November’s upcoming workshop will focus on workforce development. Although PCA operates statewide, much of its in-person programming takes place in Fresno, Visalia and Tulare, where Morales helps organize events and build relationships with participants. “My favorite part of the job is watching people grow as leaders,” she said. “It’s really about the one-on-ones and relationship building.”

When asked what advice she’d give to young people who want to make a difference, Morales offered words of encouragement: “Take the first step—start with whatever you’re most comfortable with. Whether you’re into data or you’re an artist, there’s a place for you in the movement.”

Through her work, Morales and PCA continue to prove that when young people are given the tools and trust to lead, they can reshape California’s future for the better.