Oscar Lopez III

Oscar Lopez III, a researcher, writer, and artist from the U.S.-Mexico border town of Laredo, Texas, has dedicated his career to addressing some of the most pressing issues facing marginalized communities. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, holding a B.A. in Government and a B.B.A. in Business Honors, Oscar’s work has been deeply inspired by the challenges and opportunities present in his hometown.

Since January 2023, Oscar has served on the Advisory Board for the Born This Way Foundation, co-founded by Lady Gaga and Cynthia Bissett Germanotta, where he has been a strong advocate for mental health awareness and access to resources for underserved populations. His commitment to social impact is further evidenced by his contributions to the Laredo Food Policy Council, where he helped pass a plan to address food deserts in his community.

Oscar’s advocacy also extends to the digital realm. After learning that his hometown was recognized as the “Worst Connected City” in the United States, he has spent the past five years working to close the digital divide nationwide. His groundbreaking work as the youngest-ever Google Public Policy Fellow and his subsequent roles at Public Knowledge and the National Hispanic Media Coalition have positioned him as a leading voice in advocating for increased broadband access, digital privacy, and ethical AI.

UNA-USA’s Youth Observer to the UN program, which began in 2012, aims to bridge the gap between young Americans and the United Nations, empowering the next generation of leaders to take action on global issues. As the 13th Youth Observer, Oscar Lopez will continue this legacy, amplifying the voices of youth and ensuring that their concerns are heard on the world stage. Oscar Armando Lopez III succeeds Ose Ehianeta Arheghan.