Young Innovators Shine at Kansas City Social Change Internship Showcase
This Thursday evening, Kansas City will be buzzing with excitement as a group of passionate young women take center stage at the Social Change Internship (SCI) showcase. This event marks the culmination of their hard work and creativity, as they present their innovative solutions to tackle social issues that matter to them and their communities.
A Unique Cohort with a Shared Mission
The 12th cohort of SCI, comprised entirely of high school students, stands out not just for their talent and drive, but also for the diversity they bring to the table. According to Christina Hocker, the director of education and skill-building at the organization, these student leaders are finding strength in their differences. “Our eyes and smile, the same. The affection we receive is not — sisters,” reads a heartfelt poem by one of the students, perfectly encapsulating their journey of collaboration and mutual support.
Hocker emphasizes the importance of this showcase, saying, “This event is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people are empowered with the tools and mentorship to turn their ideas into action.” She encourages the Kansas City community to engage with these bright minds and support their ventures that can lead to lasting change.
Networking with Purpose
This year’s showcase includes a special twist: a networking hour designed to bring educators and entrepreneurs together. Julie Leonhardt, the executive director, expressed her enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, “Our Starter Social is something we’ve wanted to host for some time.” This event aims to bridge the gap between these two influential ecosystems, fostering collaboration and providing teachers with valuable connections to inspire their students.
“Teachers need immediate access to social capital,” Leonhardt added. “Building relationships with founders can help bring real-world learning opportunities to the classroom.”
As students prepare to pitch their ideas, they will gain firsthand experience in networking, enabling them to showcase not just what they’ve learned, but also how they can apply it in real-world scenarios.
Hear Their Voices: Student-Led Ventures
The showcase will feature several amazing student-led teams, each with a unique project aimed at making a difference. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the incredible initiatives you can expect to hear about:
- EcoEducate KC: This passionate group is bridging the gap between core subjects and environmental awareness in schools. Founders Maria Lynam, Esther Uwizeye, Ania Taylor, and Moira Schirk are eager to show how caring for our planet should be a fundamental part of education.
- Bloom Together: Focused on mental health, Claire Hall, Medha Goli, and Leanna Byrd are on a mission to make mental health resources more accessible for high school students and staff.
- For Our Youth: Striving to break the cycle of financial insecurity, founders Ellia Jones, Alexandria Tan, and Fayth George are working to improve financial literacy among families in their community.
- EqualizeIt: This team, consisting of Mallory Wilkerson and Avaya Hall, aims to empower young girls by providing them with resources and knowledge to pursue careers they aspire to, regardless of societal barriers.
- Justice For Kids: Neha Khan, Kendyll Gethers, Isabelle Knapp, and Alexis David are advocating for children affected by custody cases, offering them an outlet through their project, Letters of Light.
- Her Voice, Her Choice: Focused on reproductive rights, Sara Gobin, Andrea Burns, and Tamia Hall aim to educate women about their rights and ensure they have access to information that empowers them.
- Justice For Minds: Founders Valerie Sandoval and Rayghan Williams are dedicated to supporting individuals exiting the justice system by providing essential resources to help them reintegrate into society.
- The Woman’s Rights Group: Elizabeth Wrinkles, Ellie Simpson, and Riley Edmond are tackling educational misrepresentations of women’s issues, advocating for a more equal and informed society.
Join the Excitement
As Kansas City gears up for this inspiring showcase, it’s a fantastic opportunity for the community to rally behind its young leaders. In honor of Global Entrepreneurship Week-Kansas City, attendees will have a chance to vote for their favorite team, with a $500 prize on the line.
If you’re interested in making a difference, consider supporting the continued efforts of programs like SCI as they work toward a fundraising goal of $20,000. Investing in the education and skill-building of the next generation is a step toward a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
So mark your calendars for this Thursday! Let’s cheer on these innovative minds ready to change the world, one pitch at a time.
