As a young person today, it is easy to feel like the world is burning and there is nothing we can do to fix it. I want to counter youth political apathy and climate anxiety with hope and connection. Young people will bear the brunt of the climate crisis, yet we are often denied the political power and voice to make changes that are vital for our future. I work to support underrepresented changemakers in recognizing the power we have as the leaders our communities need.

This looks like education on the power we hold in shaping our governance, building and empowering a community that leans on each other, and connecting students with their elected officials while mobilizing youth to get the people we need into office. At the core of this work is creating tangible action items that empower young people as changemakers. This requires strengthening partnerships between community coalitions, policymakers, and students to build congruence in action. I am eager to share and expand on this process by connecting with other passionate students through the Newman Civic Fellowship.