Ell Gimenez
Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover
Ell Gimenez, a 17-year-old lifelong resident of Melrose, is widely recognized for her artistic talents and deep commitment to community engagement.
At just 13, she designed the logo for The Food Drive, a local food rescue and access program co-founded by her parents, Jana and Tony Gimenez. Since then, she has continued to contribute to the organization through design and photography and now serves as a student intern. She also created the program’s map, illustrating key recipients and food donors.
A well-spoken and personable junior at Melrose High School, Ell’s favorite subject is English literature, and she hopes to pursue a college degree that combines English literature, visual arts, and music.
Beyond academics, Ell is an active member of several extracurricular organizations, including the Student Action Board for the Melrose Alliance Against Violence (MAAV), the Honors Chorus, the school newspaper Imprint, the Vice President for Environmental Club, and the Compost Initiative. She also serves as the assistant coach for the Middle School volleyball team.
Her artistic reach extends into the community through her involvement in events like the Chalk Walk fundraiser organized by Follow Your Art Community Studios, where she contributed as an artist for the last 3 years. Her photography has also been showcased in One Day Melrose. As a fellow at Follow Your Art, she aspires to earn a mural commission and bring her creative vision to public spaces. During the summer, she serves as a camp counselor at Follow Your Art.
Ell’s interests span a wide spectrum, from art, music, reading, and writing to thrifting and fitness training at Alta Performance. A passionate collector of vinyl records, she has eclectic music tastes ranging from ABBA and Billie Eilish to Indigo Girls and Carole King.
When asked how she balances her many commitments while excelling in school, she credits her incredible parents for instilling in her strong organizational, time management, and critical thinking skills.
A devoted foodie, Ell’s favorite meal is her dad’s homemade Mexican burritos—though Mexico Lindo is a solid substitute. Her go-to pizza is Alfredo’s buffalo chicken, and she also enjoys sushi and Indian cuisine.
What she loves most about Melrose? Her parents top the list, followed by Rocky, her dog, Green Street Natural Foods, the city’s many sustainability initiatives, the Farmers' Market, and the vibrant local businesses.
On her bucket list, in addition to creating a mural, is incorporating her poetry into songwriting. She dreams of traveling the world and is thrilled to be visiting London in April, with Amsterdam, Greece, Asia, Australia, and Africa all next on her list.
Ell’s dedication to both her personal passions and community service underscores her commitment to making a meaningful impact in Melrose and beyond.
