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The #DegreesNYC Youth Council is an opportunity for NYC high school, college, and non-traditional students to be a part of a youth advocacy network by working with #DegreesNYC. Our Youth Council is committed to making schools and campuses more student-ready by advocating for institutional and political reform.
Meet the Fellows:
Follow #DegreesNYC Youth Council!
Ariba S.
Grade/Year/School:
LaGuardia Community College '24
Fun fact:
In my free time enjoy cooking and my favorite meal is briyani.
What makes you a youth leader?
I am passionate about creating an accessible environment for students to grow by getting mental and academic supports.
Why do you do this work?
Through this position, I'll be able to create a safe space for youth to connect and how other youths will be able to advocate for themselves.
Janelle Q.
Grade/Year/School:
The City College of New York '25
Fun fact:
I love jellyfish.
What makes you a youth leader?
I love collaborating with others, and I want to improve the well-being of others in my community.
Why do you do this work?
I want to become a student advocate because I think education is one of the most important things in life, and I think there are things we could do to make the education system better, and more fun for kids.
Chike S.
Grade/Year/School:
Beford Academy High School '25
Fun fact:
I enjoy writing, gardening, and biking around NYC.
What makes you a change-maker?
I'm incredibly passionate about forming change and the importance of doing so with young perspectives. I feel that I'm collaborative and considerate of varying and significant ideas of those I work with.
Why do you do this work?
I'd like to contribute to the fight against educational inequalities, racial injustices, and environmental problems, as well as many other pressing social justice issues of our time.
Tiana L.
Grade/Year/School:
Baruch College '27
Fun fact:
I like to write song lyrics and poetry.
What makes you a change-maker?
I'm passionate advocating for the youth because I believe we all have important ideas which deserve to be heard despite our young age.
Why do you do this work?
I want to be a model to the Asian American and POC community to speak up for ourselves in the face of discrimination and/or lack of resources. I want people to become in touch with their inner leader and have the opportunity to better understand people's needs.
Tina Z.
Grade/Year/School:
Millennium Brooklyn High School '24
Fun fact:
My favorite flowers are hydrangeas in purple because it symbolizes the desire to understand deeply as she yearns to understand her fellow humans and the world.
What makes you a change-maker?
I recognize the importance of different types of leadership to serve diverse needs. My leadership in my efforts to be thoughtful, responsive, and encouraging towards others as she engages in folk' different values and visions.
Why do you do this work?
As a first generation, low-income student, I am passionate about education justice as I believe it's the main mode of upward mobility and empowerment.
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