Mateo, who prefers being called Teo, describes himself as brave, determined, focused, and funny. He is very active, enjoying sports like basketball, football, and wrestling. He also likes to be outside in nature or go swimming. Teo looks up to Malcom X, Odell Beckham Jr, Stephen Curry, and Patrick Mahomes. He likes to make beats, rap, cook, and write poetry. His favorite classes are science and history because he enjoys seeing chemical reactions and learning about slavery. Teo’s favorite book is “We Fought Back: Teen Resisters of the Holocaust” by Allan Zullo. His favorite movies are the Fast & Furious franchise.

When he gets older, Teo would like to become a rapper or pursue a career in medicine so he can help people. His ideal forever family would be culturally like himself, include a mom, dad, younger siblings, cats and/or dogs, and be very trustworthy. Adoption is important to Teo because he desires people who will support, encourage, and talk challenges through with him.