Felix Deng, A Voice for ESL Students

In the bustling halls of Blacksburg High School, few if any students have made an impact on the ESL (English as a Second Language) community like senior Felix Deng. Known for his dedication and advocacy, Felix has worked tirelessly to ensure that his fellow ESL students feel seen, supported, and valued. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “I have been waiting for 3 years to hope someone can stand up for ESL students, and I realized that none wanted to do that. I became the hero that I want to have by myself when I am a Senior.”

Born in Virginia but raised in China, Felix encountered cultural and social challenges throughout his childhood. When he returned to the U.S. for high school, language barriers posed an immediate difficulty. "My first language is Chinese, not English," he explained. “When I came back to America from China, I needed to take ESL class because I didn’t pass the WIDA test, the test which tests to see if a student has enough English skill.” Determined to catch up with his peers, he enrolled in summer classes and eventually joined honors and AP courses, demonstrating his commitment to overcoming any obstacle.

Felix’s excellent leadership shined through with his organization of the ESL Students Festival, an event celebrating the diverse backgrounds within the student body. Remembering the work he put into the event, Felix said, “I used 2 weeks to prepare for my speech. After that, I met with our principal, Mr. Stewart in his office to tell him the whole thing I have written down.” The result was a week-long celebration, featuring daily announcements and posters in multiple languages. “ I made 44 posters about celebrating the ESL Student Festival in four languages: Chinese, English, Arabic, and Spanish. I put them around the school on Monday to let ESL students and all of the rest of the people know that that week belongs to ESL students.”

The festival was more than a celebration, it was almost a statement. Felix’s goal was very clear: to raise a safe environment where ESL students could feel empowered to engage with others. Remembering a memorable moment, Felix shared, “My favorite moment is when I was making an announcement on Monday because I knew there was a person finally who stood up for ESL students, even though that person was me. ”

Beyond just events, Felix has seen firsthand the positive changes in confidence among ESL students. “I saw a new Chinese student who just came here and is also an ESL student, and he has 5 friends to talk to when he is waiting for the bus everyday. Better than me, I only had one friend when I came here in the first year.” Felix’s influence extends outside of school as well, by encouraging ESL students to practice English in a supportive community.

The journey, however, was not without challenges. Felix admitted that coordinating the festival required sacrifices. “I didn’t make the plan perfectly, the plan was a little rushed. However, I gave up some of my phone time, and also with the help from school employees, teachers, principals, and NHS (National Honor Society), I finished them on time.” Felix credits his support network, particularly one close friend, for keeping him motivated. “She was the first friend I made when I came here,” he said warmly. “Let me be honest, without her, you guys wouldn’t see me standing here.”

Felix’s story is one of resilience and extreme selfless dedication. Looking toward the future, he dreams of bridging cultural divides by creating an aerospace company that unites people through space exploration. “By fostering this connection, I hope to create a future where people work together in space without conflict,” he said. His advice to other students looking to make a difference is beautifully stated. “Try to find a best friend that you really trust. Believe in yourself that you can do anything, even though you may screw up, you have a group of people on your back supporting you. Don’t worry that your English is not good enough. You know a language that most people don’t know. Be happy, don’t feel awkward or nervous.”

Felix’s journey shows just how far perseverance and vision can take someone. Reflecting on his experience, he offers a simple yet elegant reminder: “Everyone is unique, be respectful to everyone.” Through his dedication and advocacy, Felix has become the role model he once looked up to, and he now stands as an inspiration for all future leaders.

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Written by Asher Mercier.

Photography by Adeline Elder