Ricardo Ortega Martinez

Ricardo is a dedicated Peer Advocate at the Children's Law Center of California. As the inaugural Los Angeles County Youth Commissioner, he passionately represents the interests of over 2.2 million young people. Additionally, Ricardo holds a prominent role as a member of the California Youth Connection Executive Commission.

Ricardo's impressive track record includes serving on the Mental Health Board for Transitional Age Youth in California. Notably, he became the youngest commissioner to lend his expertise to the Civil Service Commission in the city of Huntington Park, as well as the Immigration Commission under Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson of the 65th District in California.

In recognition of his outstanding accomplishments, Ricardo was officially acknowledged on December 2nd, 2017, as a Young Senator by State Senator Ricardo Lara in honor of his completion of the highly esteemed 33rd Senate District Young Senators Program.

Remarkably, Ricardo began his impactful work at the age of 17 when he actively contributed to AB 2247-Place to Call Home, an initiative aimed at creating stability for foster youth placements across California. Continuing his commitment to California's youth, Ricardo, at the age of 20, took part in AB 46-California Youth Empowerment Commission, which offered an exceptional opportunity for young Californians to engage in civic activities.

Among Ricardo's notable achievements, he also served as the President of the Los Angeles chapter of a noteworthy non-profit organization, demonstrating his dedication to making a positive impact in the community.