Answer: The author uses the mirror as a symbol of self-reflection and encourages students to see themselves as leaders.
In this excerpt, the author wants the students to see themselves as leaders in their community. She tells us that many students do not see themselves as leaders because the leaders they are shown do not look like them. Therefore, she asks them to look at themselves in the mirror and try to ask themselves some questions. The mirror is used as a device to help them in their self-reflection. It also allows students to see themselves as leaders in their communities.