Fall 2025

We have started off the program year with a bang! Beginning with our orientation retreat in August, we welcomed new eleventh grade Fellows into the Fellowship and twelfth grade Bridgers into their second year. Fellows and Bridgers have been busy attending skill-building sessions, committee meetings, hearing from our alumni, and joining together for team building and bonding activities. Read more below and check out some highlights of the season!

MY OLDER SISTER’S ADVICE

by Caroline Kollander

I live on the Upper East Side of New York City and attend Jewish day school. As an eager freshman awaiting my first day of school, I asked my older sister and her friends for their best advice for high school. Between things like the classes I should take and the best vending machine to use, one thing my sister mentioned stood out to me, her excitement for her first year of YouthBridge. Going into junior year, she embarked on the annual YouthBridge retreat. Before having even started the classes, she had already learned so much over one weekend. She talked about the people she met (who would later become close friends), and real-world issues she knew nothing of prior. At that moment, I knew I would commit to YouthBridge the second I could. Watching my sister throughout her junior and senior year come home from classes full of endless information and experiences to share, my excitement grew stronger. Finally, when it was my turn to go on the retreat myself, I made sure to make the most of every moment. Fortunately, YouthBridge made doing that very easy. I was constantly grouped with new people to try new activities like archery, a ropes course, and an inflatable park in the lake. Every window of time was spent participating in engaging team-building exercises that are relevant to my everyday life and future as a member of society. Today, I am so excited and honored to be a part of the healthcare disparities group. I look forward to spending more time with the people I met on the retreat, and soon mastering a topic I know so little about right now.    

DEEPENING MY UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD AROUND US

by Jessie Kim

I joined YouthBridge through a web search to learn more about communities and gain a deeper understanding of diversity, as I had begun to deepen my passion for activism and advocacy through my school. I found that Youthbridge truly aligned with my values, specifically becoming more aware of commonly held stereotypes and prejudices, as mentioned in YouthBridge’s impact. When I joined Youthbridge, I was excited to hear the different opinions from teens scattered across New York. Entering the retreat, I was timid, but engaging in the workshops provided by YouthBridge allowed me not only to learn about the program but also to form lifelong friendships through the engaging icebreakers. Hearing about the experiences, cultures, and religions of my peers opens me to learning about their upbringings and their environments. It was truly an experience where no one was judged or critiqued for their opinions, and we could truly relate to one another. 

One of the biggest highlights for me was during the criminal justice reform workshop when the Rikers Island commissioners came in to share their insights and experience with Rikers Island. I was able to learn about such an important topic that I had previously known very little about. Thanks to the wonderful, hardworking people at Youthbridge and the resources and opportunities provided to me and other fellows, I look forward to the impact we will make as committees! In the future, I am excited to continue exploring different social issues with my peers through skill-building workshops and to deepen my understanding of the world around us.

EVERY PERSON TELLS A NEW STORY

by Ryan Lo

When I decided to apply to YouthBridge in the spring of my sophomore year, I had underestimated how much the program would show me about the world. Of course, I had looked into the program before and the mission of the program really resonated with me. But even from the couple workshops and discussions I’ve learned so much from everyone around me; hearing the different voices and results of different life experiences through other Fellows has shown me just how diverse NYC is. Each person tells a new story, and each story gives me a new perspective. As I hear more and learn about other Fellows, I’m gaining more than just new friends; I’m also bettering my understanding of the world. Even from the first Skill-building workshop, I got to reflect on my own identity. It’s something I thought was so much simpler, but we started breaking down the many different components of identity and I realized just how complex my own identity is. I got to reflect on how my own life experiences have shaped me. It was super humbling to examine the influences that have shaped me and to hear others do the same. I look forward to getting to know everybody around me even further because I know it’s programs like this that form the most genuine relationships.  

YouthBridge is a space where we have authentic discussions, covering topics and issues that are relevant everywhere around the world. I never thought I’d get to learn about Healthcare Disparities in the level of detail I’ve been learning about it at YouthBridge. Hearing about the different inequities minorities face in healthcare made me realize how lucky I have it already, but how much further society can go to make it equitable for everyone. It sparked deep reflection for me, leaving me to think for that whole night about what changes we can make for it to be accessible for everyone, even small changes. It affects so many more people than I thought it did. I’m glad I am a part of this committee; I’ve gotten to become more aware about the world and learn about issues that I can create a lasting positive change for. I’m so grateful I got the chance to join YouthBridge, it really has changed the way I see the world.  

Summer 2025

GRADUATION

Below are some reflections from our Fellows and graduated Bridgers about their time in the Fellowship. We want to wish a hearty congratulations to all of our graduated Seniors, it has been a pleasure knowing each and every one of you, and we cannot wait to see all that you accomplish in the years to come!

Exploring the Different Perspectives of Inequality

By Vanna Lei 

Before joining YouthBridge, I thought it would just be a fun experience to learn about a prevalent issue on a topic I love: food. Growing up in an Asian family where any waste is taboo and we would have leftovers for days, I’ve always known about the issue of food waste and its importance. 

The reference I hear the most is “think about all the kids in Africa who don’t have any food to eat”, yet I never thought about how widespread the issue of food inequality actually is. There are children (and people) all over the world that lack access to three healthy meals everyday, and I never really understood my own privilege of having this comfort until YouthBridge.  

YouthBridge has helped me explore different perspectives of inequality, why it exists, and how food insecurity is more than just not having food on the table that night.

Throughout our workshops this year, I was able to develop my critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills. 

Two different workshops that stand out to me the most are when we did the Boat Exercise, when we went through different scenarios on tight budgets, difficult circumstances, and had to survive a month. It was incredibly difficult, and not once did we win because of just how many factors influence a person’s ability to have a stable household. 

I would also like to point out the time we volunteered at a food bank. We noticed how diverse the population of people who need food were, which differs from the groups of people that I see regularly at food pantries, which only fulfills stereotypes. Again, I was able to really discover how food inequality affects everyone. 

I’m looking forward to learning more about food justice, how I can apply the skills I learned to the benefit of the community, and most importantly creating stronger connections with my peers. 

This Fellowship Gave Me Direction

By Cipriana Salinas-Sandler

It’s hard to believe we’ve reached the end of our first year as YouthBridge fellows. As part of the Healthcare Disparities committee, I came into this experience with a strong personal connection to medicine. I want to become a doctor, not just because I’m fascinated by science, but because of what I’ve seen in my own family and community.

On my dad’s side, my grandmother Betty—who I sadly never got to meet—struggled with heart disease and diabetes. On my mom’s side, both of my grandparents in San Antonio have dealt with obesity and diabetes for much of their lives. And my mom’s cousins, who live in the Rio Grande Valley, are in a region classified as a food desert - where healthy food options are hard to find and the consequences show up in their health. These aren’t just isolated medical issues. They’re examples of how poverty, location, and culture can all shape someone’s access to care and their health outcomes. Seeing these struggles up close is what drives me to want to become a doctor - specifically one who serves marginalized groups. 

Throughout my time in the Healthcare Disparities committee, I’ve learned just how systemic these challenges are. We talked about how mistrust in the medical system, especially in the Black community after injustices like the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, still impacts whether people seek care today. We also learned how living in a food desert or not having health insurance can make something as basic as a doctor’s appointment feel out of reach. Additionally, our committee got to help address these challenges by supporting For the Better Inc. through our Bridging the Gap grant. 

One of my favorite sessions was when we discussed mental health across different cultures. We shared our own experiences and were surprised to learn that Asian Americans are the least likely group to seek mental health treatment. We ended the session recording mock podcasts, giving advice to a fictional teen caller—and even though it was pretend, it felt so real. We also had a powerful debate about social media and teen mental health—about whether or not it should be banned for people under 16. These weren’t just conversations about health—they were conversations about our health, as teens navigating the world today.

But what made this year so special wasn’t just the information—it was the people. From our very first retreat, when I met Mariam and Rachel, I started building friendships that grew stronger with every meeting. Whether we were discussing vaccines, preparing presentations, or laughing during our escape room trip, I always felt supported and inspired by everyone in this room.

This fellowship gave me direction. It helped me realize that being a good doctor means seeing the whole person—not just their symptoms. That’s why I’m currently doing an emergency medicine research internship, and I plan to center my project on how immigration status impacts access to emergency care. I want to study how fear, language barriers, and lack of insurance affect how marginalized communities navigate crisis situations - and how the healthcare system can do better. 

Looking back, I feel like I’ve grown not only as a student, but as a future healthcare professional. This fellowship helped me understand how social disparities shape health in ways that my AP Bio or Chem class don’t always show. And I know that this knowledge will make me a more compassionate and effective doctor in the future.

Thank you all for being part of this journey with me.

Building Bridges Instead of Walls

By Nour Abdelaziz

When I first looked into YouthBridge, I’ll admit—I was a little skeptical. Every organization says they care about diversity and inclusion. But as someone who’s spent a lot of time being “the only” in a room, I’ve learned to read between the lines. So I did what any curious person would do: I went looking for proof. And it didn’t take long. I looked at the website and saw images of past Fellows and Bridgers who looked like me. Women in hijabs. People of color. People from different faiths, backgrounds, and identities—not just participating, but leading. Representing. Creating change. That was the moment it clicked: YouthBridge doesn’t just talk about inclusion—it lives it.

We explored topics like the school-to-prison pipeline, the long-term psychological impact of solitary confinement, and the racial and economic disparities deeply embedded in policing and sentencing. I listened to stories from formerly incarcerated individuals—stories full of pain, resilience, and hard truths. And I am glad to announce that at the end of it all, we were also able to support Hoodworks Inc. through our Bridging the Gap grant. With every meeting, my perspective shifted. What once felt distant and theoretical became urgent and personal.

Over the past year, I’ve grown in ways I didn’t expect. I learned how to turn my voice into a tool for advocacy—how to raise it with confidence and care. I’ve sat in rooms where hard conversations happened, and instead of backing away, I leaned in. I learned how to listen—not just with my ears, but with empathy. I learned how to challenge my own assumptions and open myself up to perspectives that were different from mine.

That mindset—of leading with empathy, of building bridges instead of walls—is something I will carry with me long after my time here ends. Being a YouthBridge Fellow has been one of the most meaningful parts of my journey so far. And now, as I prepare to step into the role of a Bridger, I do so with pride, purpose, and a whole lot of gratitude.

Thank you, YouthBridge and a special thank you to Adama, Tiffany, and Karen for creating these meetings and hosting them.

Spreading Awareness, Learning, and Growing

By Zach Simon

It’s a pleasure to be able to be up here tonight and I just wanted to take a minute to reflect on this amazing community we have built this past year, and specifically show my appreciation for my committee.

In the last year, I have truly enjoyed working with the food justice committee, and looking back, it is hard to believe how much we have accomplished in such a short time. I feel immensely grateful for all the contributions, hard work, and effort we have all put into making an impact on our community.

When I first joined YouthBridge, I had no idea what to expect. I didn’t know what we would be doing, or how we would be doing it. However, when reflecting on it now, this past year has been one of the most meaningful things I have done, and this experience has been so much more rewarding than I could’ve imagined. 

Throughout the past year, we have worked to help spread awareness, learn about, and grow towards the goal of making access to healthy and affordable food a fundamental right, and not a privilege. Your guys’s passion, creativity, and determination have been truly inspiring, and we have been, and will be able to do great things with the skills we have built here. 

One of the things that stood out to me was from this past April, when we all volunteered at a food bank, distributing dinners to the hungry. What stands out to me most from that night was how willing each of us was to pitch in and help out, no questions asked. That, to me, is what makes this group, and not just the food justice committee, but all of you here tonight, so powerful, seeing that you all are willing to do something good without hesitation, even when it comes at no gain to you. 

I also want to say how much I appreciate every one of you for how much your spirit, friendship, and eagerness have shaped me into who I am today, and how I would not be here today if not for all of you.

In that, when looking ahead to the year we have coming up, I am beyond excited to see what it will hold, to see how we will deepen our impact, and see how far we can go. 

Our Efforts are Not Just Words

By Dwayne Saunders

When I first joined Youth Bridge, I was nervous about what would come since I didn’t know anybody in this program. But moreover, I was excited to participate in meetings, and eventually, I realized how passionate we teens in New York City can truly be. This year has introduced growth, learning, and connection. In my first year of YouthBridge, I met with other young leaders from across the city who had the same mission: to make a change.

By joining the food justice committee, I expected to just learn about the lack of access to food in communities, but we dove into how intricate these issues are, such as organic options and waste management. I noticed things I hadn't been aware of before, such as food deserts and a lack of fresh produce. We met monthly to examine these issues and explore solutions that could make a difference. It forced me to think about the challenges faced by so many families across NYC.

It truly feels amazing awarding money to Team Brown, Inc., as they are consistently working to make a meaningful difference. We reviewed several organizations, and even though others didn't receive the grant, their service does not go unnoticed. Our efforts are not just words, and it is wonderful to provide Team Brown with the resources to make an impact.

I have developed skills working as a team and navigating conversations that had a purpose. Throughout this year, I have had fun doing team activities at our skill-building workshops, going on retreats, and being able to take in so much meaningful information from not just our guests but my peers as well.

YouthBridge is a wonderful program, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to participate in it.

Using My Story to Make a Change 

By Liba Safa 

When I first joined YouthBridge, I had a narrow idea of what leadership meant. I thought it meant being loud, always knowing what to say, and standing at the front of the room. But over the past two years, YouthBridge has taught me that leadership can also mean listening, holding space for others, and using your story to make change.

In my first year, I joined the Healthcare Disparities Committee. That experience opened my eyes to so many issues, like language barriers, medical bias, and gaps in care that different communities face. I saw how unequal access to healthcare can be, and it made me realize how important it is to fight for equity, not just change. This also deepened my passion for medicine. I’ve always wanted to be a doctor, but YouthBridge reminded me that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege.

I’ve also realized that my first example of a true leader has always been my mom. She leads by example every day—with patience, strength, and kindness. No matter what, she constantly reminds me to stay humble and grateful. Watching her handle challenges with grace has inspired me to face my own challenges with the same mindset. My siblings, Huda and Shameer, have also helped me grow. Being the oldest, I feel a responsibility to set a good example for them. They remind me why it’s important to stay focused and keep pushing forward, no matter how hard things get.

My favorite memory this year at Youthbridge was at the All Stars Project, where we participated in different activities that were fun and helped us step out of our comfort zones. I also loved the networking event where I had enlightening conversations with different professionals who shared their experiences and advice. It gave me a new perspective on life and the many ways people work to create change.

I’m really proud of what we’ve done these past two years, and even though it’s bittersweet to finish the Fellowship, I know I’m leaving with new skills and a better understanding of the world around me. I’ve learned how to speak up, work with others, and look at problems from different angles. 

My plans for the future are to continue my education, and I’m committed to NYIT for their BS/DO program. I’m excited to keep working toward my goal of becoming a doctor and helping communities like my own. I also want to wish my cohort the best of luck in their journeys ahead—I know they will all do amazing things. 

Thank you, YouthBridge, for introducing me to people from all over the city who care about making a difference. We all had different stories, but we were working toward the same goal.

A Beacon of Learning

By Grace Kollander 

Today, we gather to celebrate our YouthBridge journey that has transformed each and every one of us over the past two years. YouthBridge has been more than a program or a fellowship; it has been a catalyst for growth, a platform for challenge, and a beacon of learning that has broadened our perspectives in ways that I could have never imagined.

I still remember opening the email that brought the exciting news that I was accepted into the YouthBridge fellowship. I was sitting on the New York City bus on the way home from a long day of school, and it instantly brought an ear-to-ear smile to my face. The excitement bubbled within me as I envisioned all the knowledge and experiences I would gain. 

As we reflect on our time together, let’s take a moment to acknowledge the challenges we faced. Each obstacle was not just a hurdle but an opportunity - a chance to push our limits and to step outside our comfort zones. Whether it was through engaging discussions, collaborative projects, or community service, we learned to embrace discomfort as a necessary part of growth… get comfortable with being uncomfortable and talking about uncomfortable things. 

If I had to choose one thing that YouthBridge really instilled in me, I would say it was the ability to step outside of my comfort zone. Getting to engage and hold discussions with other teens from completely different backgrounds, all with different opinions and perspectives, was invaluable. Moreover, having the opportunity to connect with individual teens on a personal level was such an incredible experience.

I have a particular example of this. I’m naturally more reserved, and I very clearly remember the first summer YouthBridge retreat where everyone met for the first time - it challenged that part of me. I arrived at 520 Eighth Avenue, anxiously waiting to board the bus. This was the first time I was meeting all of you, and I didn’t know anyone beforehand. I sat on the bus, quietly observing and wondering what the weekend would bring. I was eager to meet new people, but nervous.

Over that weekend, from the aqua jump to the team exercises, I couldn’t have had more fun stepping outside of my comfort zone and meeting this amazing, fascinating, and intelligent group of teens. On the way home, I sat with the new friends I had made and thought back to just a few days earlier. It was incredible to see how much can change in such a short time, and how meaningful it was to build relationships with people, hear their opinions during discussions, and learn how they would approach different global issues.

YouthBridge has created a space where these differences are celebrated - where we’ve been encouraged to listen, empathize, and understand. Each of us comes from different backgrounds, with unique stories and perspectives. I remember one session when YouthBridge brought in their Munich chapter, and we got to discuss different international conflicts with them. This diversity has taught me that our collective strength lies in our varied viewpoints.

As I’m attending Duke University next year - and as all of us head off to our respective colleges or whichever path you choose to take - we should all continue to broaden our horizons, just as YouthBridge taught us. We should keep having respectful, intellectual discussions, being open to hearing many different perspectives, and always challenging ourselves.

I want to express my gratitude to YouthBridge for this transformative experience. Thank you for believing in us, for pushing us to be our best selves, and for creating a community where we can thrive. Here’s to the past two years and to the bright futures that lie ahead for each of us. Let’s continue to grow, to challenge, and to inspire one another.

Expanding My Worldview

By Murphy Slater 

When thinking back on my YouthBridge experience to write this speech, I wasn't quite sure how to format my thoughts about the program, so I thought I would start by talking about some of my favorite memories from the last two years. 

Last year, as part of the Food Justice program, we spent a lot of time talking about the importance of food and plants in our daily lives, which culminated in a couple days where we brought in cultural food dishes and planted our own seeds in little pots that we got to paint. It was a super enjoyable experience and really allowed us to connect with one another and put the knowledge we had been learning throughout the year into practice. This is just one example of the community that YouthBridge has to offer. The group format of our meetings allows us to form connections with each other, especially with people that we would not have met if not for the program, from other boroughs and other high schools. These connections allow all of us to expand our worldviews and appreciate topics from new perspectives, from issues as important as food injustice to simply conversations about which aspects of our schools are the most strange. 

My other favorite memory was this year, when we had a presentation from ADAPT – which is an organization that provides services for the disability community in the city – where we had an engaging conversation about what accessibility really looks like. This presentation was very important to me as someone who wants to go into the special education field, and I ended up reaching out to the program and setting up volunteer opportunities for myself for this upcoming summer, before I head off to Wheaton College. I think this really speaks to the resources that YouthBridge has to offer – there are so many meetings and presentations on such a wide variety of topics that if any of them stand out to you, it’s very easy to reach out and get involved. All of the people involved with the program really want to make sure that we have the most possible resources available to help us in the future, which is very much appreciated. 

Overall, throughout my time at YouthBridge, I’ve learned a lot. I’ve learned about what equality and equity look like in New York through the food justice lens, where we talked about food deserts and what it really means to face food insecurity. We spoke to activists about their work helping to improve access to food all across the nation, and did research on what we can do to help those efforts ourselves. I’ve also learned a lot about the professional world, through meetings about personal branding and the networking session with professionals in many different fields. I definitely feel that YouthBridge has expanded my knowledge base and given me many tools that will be useful as I move out of this phase of my life into the next. Thank you so much to everyone involved with Youthbridge for creating this experience for us, and especially thank you to Tiffany for being at all of our meetings and answering my emails at alarmingly late hours of the night. It’s been a great experience, and I’m sure that the next group of Bridgers will have just as many wonderful things to take away from the experience as we all have this year. 

Thank you!

The Power of Interdisciplinary Collaboration

By Tzipora Guttman

When I first joined YouthBridge, I knew I was passionate about medicine and scientific research, but I had no idea just how deeply this fellowship would transform my understanding of healthcare—and myself.

My time in the healthcare disparities cohort helped me understand the history and ramifications of this systemic issue. Millions of people, especially in underserved communities, still lack access to basic health services. Due to inadequate coverage, poor accessibility, or a simple lack of scientific knowledge, disparities in the healthcare system plague quality care from the innovation stages to widespread implementation. Bottom line, there are far too many preventable deaths, perpetuating cycles of inequality. Through workshops, experiential learning opportunities, and group work, my peers and I learned that, while pressing, this issue is solvable. Real solutions exist, combining advancements in scientific research with critical systemic policy changes. I discovered the power of interdisciplinary collaboration—public health experts, scientists, healthcare policymakers, sociologists, and economists coming together to bridge gaps between innovation and real-world accessibility.

But perhaps most importantly, YouthBridge broadened my perspective by showing me that science and social equity must always go hand-in-hand. I experienced this myself when working on my own research project, linking gut microbiome variations and depression to neuroinflammation. Initially, I was thrilled by the data set provided by my professor mentor. However, I quickly noticed it lacked diversity—missing representation across different races, genders, and economic backgrounds. This realization wasn’t just disappointing; it was deeply problematic. It highlighted the structural inequalities built into medical research from its earliest stages and motivated me to advocate for more inclusive clinical studies.

YouthBridge gave me the tools to address these problems. Through our activities, I developed stronger skills in advocacy, leadership, and communication—abilities crucial to bridging scientific innovation with social justice.

My personal motivation comes from my father. He struggled with unresolved mental health issues that later severely impacted his physical health. A brainstem stroke left him unable to maintain balance, and neuropathy robbed him of sensation in his foot. I became his caregiver, holding his hand, reminding him to use his cane, and vigilantly looking out for his safety. Every doctor’s visit, every scan, every prescription wasn’t just medical—it was personal. It sparked my love for healthcare, giving me a front-row seat to both the marvels of medicine and its shortcomings.

Even after my father passed away, my passion only intensified. Each new research project deepens my curiosity, sharpens my analytical skills, and fuels my determination. More importantly, each graph I produce and each conclusion I draw gives me hope that someday my work will improve lives—just as modern medicine improved my father’s.

Reflecting back, my favorite memories at YouthBridge include spirited discussions with people from completely different backgrounds, learning to see issues from multiple perspectives, and the joy we shared presenting our projects together. These memories reinforce my belief that diverse collaboration is the pathway toward meaningful change.

As I complete this fellowship, I feel inspired and empowered. The sense of community and purpose I found here will stay with me forever. Next, I’m thrilled to say I’ll be studying and continuing my research at Washington University in St. Louis on my pre-med journey. There, I plan to delve deeper into the intersections of neuroscience, mental health, and healthcare equity, ensuring every study I undertake reflects and respects the diversity of those it serves.

YouthBridge didn’t just shape my vision—it sharpened my commitment, allowing me to carry lessons of collaboration, inclusion, and justice, contributing to a healthcare system that truly cares for everyone, no matter their race, gender, or socioeconomic status. 

Thank you, YouthBridge, for showing me what that future can look like—and for helping me realize that I have a role to play in creating it.

Spring 2025

Spring has sprung! The weather is getting warmer, the leaves are returning to the trees, and our teens want to share what they have been up to at YouthBridge-NY. Over the past few months, we have continued to see engaging dialogue and growth from our teens in our Skillbuilding Workshops and Social Action Committees. Keep reading to hear from our teens about how they relate what they have been learning in our program to their own lives.

SURROUNDED BY PASSIONATE INDIVIDUALS

by Chineze Gregoire

Although there were many reasons why being a part of YouthBridge was a great match for me, I joined YouthBridge because I have a deep passion for understanding my community and saw an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. One element of the program that appealed to me was that YouthBridge seemed like an incredible space where young leaders come together to dive deep into topics like public health, self-advocacy, and community outreach—issues that directly shape the lives of people in New York City. I love that YouthBridge fosters a supportive and engaging environment where I can learn from others, share my perspectives, and challenge myself to think critically about solutions to real-world problems. I also find that during the meetings I push myself out of my comfort zone by engaging in the conversation and sharing with my peers, allowing me to move past moments of self-doubt and harness my ability to speak up. The meeting times are especially valuable because they provide a dedicated space to further educate myself on pressing issues affecting my city and become a more informed and active advocate for change. 

When I entered the YouthBridge program, I expected to feel a strong sense of collaboration and camaraderie, surrounded by peers who were just as passionate about making a difference. I anticipated engaging in meaningful discussions about health crises that intersect with various identities, shedding light on the gaps in the American healthcare system. I also expected to explore the injustices caused by racial prejudice, ethnic biases, and the general ignorance that leads to the suffering of marginalized communities in the United States. I was eager to learn, challenge my perspectives, and work alongside others to find ways to advocate for real change in our society.

One of the biggest highlights of the Healthcare Disparities committee for me was learning about maternal mortality. It was my favorite moment because it expanded the knowledge that I already had and opened my eyes to just how many people in New York City are affected by this crisis, because it is often overlooked in the healthcare community. Maternal mortality is incredibly dangerous, yet it doesn’t receive nearly enough attention even though the United States has one of the highest maternal death rates among developed nations. What struck me the most was how disproportionately it affects women of color due to systemic racism, lack of access to quality care, and medical professionals dismissing their pain and concerns. This discussion deepened my understanding of the urgent need for reform in our healthcare system and reinforced my commitment to this program because it amplified issues that are too often disregarded.

I am incredibly excited to be a Fellow at YouthBridge and continue deepening my knowledge of public health while expanding my horizons. This program has already opened my eyes to so many critical issues, and I can't wait to keep learning, engaging in thought-provoking discussions, and developing a stronger understanding of the systemic challenges our communities face. Beyond the learning aspect, I am also eager to continue building on the bonds I’ve formed in the Healthcare Disparities committee. The connections I’ve made so far have been meaningful, and I look forward to strengthening those friendships while developing new ones with others in the program. Being surrounded by passionate, like-minded individuals makes this experience even more inspiring, and I’m excited to grow alongside them as we work toward positive change.

COLLECTIVE EFFORTS TO CREATE CHANGE

by Zach Simon

When I joined YouthBridge, I wanted to learn how to apply myself to issues that I cared about, allowing me to make a meaningful difference in my community. YouthBridge offered me an opportunity to do this while navigating diversity in New York City and forming close relationships with people who shared the same mindset as me. 

Going into the first Food Justice committee meeting I was apprehensive. I didn’t know anyone in the committee and I knew very little about food justice. However, upon meeting my peers, I quickly realized that they knew as little as I did. Throughout our meetings, I was fascinated by inequalities and inequities of food throughout not only the country but the entire world. Each month, through lessons, discussions, and simulating activities, I soon learned how deep and how frequent the issues in our food system run. 

One of my favorite memories from the Food Justice committee was a simulation we completed as a group. We took on the collective role of a broke college student and tried to make it through just a few days without going into debt. Right away, we learned how hard it was to have access to quality and affordable meals while staying healthy and in school. I specifically liked this activity because it presented a very real and possible future for not only us, but many of the people our age that we knew. We saw how much of a struggle present students and people are faced with, and saw the privilege that we had not yet known about the problems of food access on such a personal level. 

Looking forward, I am excited to learn more about efforts being made to fix the widespread food insecurities in our country, and how I can take action to not only help but lead these movements. 

RECOGNIZING THE CHALLENGES AND PRIVILEGES WE FACE

by Malek Benjelloun

Last summer, I was looking for a way to learn about making change, and how to get to that point where you can have the skills and knowledge needed to do so. When I found YouthBridge, I immediately knew it was a great match. Getting to see the friends I've made, and going to see these great speakers talk about their experiences and ways they go about creating change on a daily basis has really been worth it. 

During our last skillbuilding meeting, we got to once again host Mr. Kao, who presented to us on the subject of diversity; but more importantly, what characteristics of a person determine how we feel about ourselves and others. He did this through the “Dot Exercise,” where he gave each of us 12 stickers separated into 4 different colors, before asking us to place them on a chart with different aspects of identities on them. These ranged from religion, to age, and were meant to represent all of the different ways a person could be categorized. To place them we were given prompts asking in which of these categories we felt safe, attacked, privileged, and other questions of the sort. Through the presentation and the discussions that went on while the activity was happening, we got a sense of how such a wide range of people can be impacted in these basic categories that define much of who we are. Many answers were similar, but there were moments and opportunities that stood out - where we get to learn from each other and recognize the challenges or privileges that we face as a community. 

It was such an enjoyable meeting, but at the same time we got an important lesson out of it. That should be what learning is about, and it’s always these interesting exercises that are important since they keep people aware of the diverse crowd all around them. I'm looking forward to all the other activities that we get to do, whether it be with the entirety of YouthBridge, like our retreats and skill building workshops, or with a smaller group like the Criminal Justice Reform committee I get to be a part of. And I hope that we get to see more of this style of workshop soon. I'm excited to be back for the next one! 

Fall 2024

We have started off the program year with a bang! Beginning with our orientation retreat in August, we welcomed new eleventh grade Fellows into the Fellowship and twelfth grade Bridgers into their second year. Fellows and Bridgers have been busy attending skill-building sessions, committee meetings, hearing from our alumni, and joining together for team building and bonding activities. Read more below and check out some highlights of the season!

WHAT MAKES NEW YORK CITY

by Alecia Galindez

I can still vividly recall the day of my YouthBridge interview. I was so nervous anticipating clicking on the zoom link. But the moment I did, I was welcomed so warmly. That is one of the reasons I joined YouthBridge. As a teen in New York City who was born and raised here, I can testify to the city's diversity. There is not a single day that goes by where I don’t see a multitude of races and cultures outside my own that both influence our society and identities as individuals. But how can we appreciate where we live if we don’t understand what made the city the way it is? Despite seeing these various cultures and races I won’t truly understand the complexities and personal identities of these people. But with YouthBridge I can. I get the opportunity to learn and to see through the perspectives of the cultures different from my own. 

Despite the small time I’ve spent at YouthBridge so far, I’ve learned and enjoyed the experiences and relationships I’ve grown with my peers. Some specific moments I cherish were spent having fun with friends at the lake's aquatic inflatables during the overnight retreat this summer. While I only had just met the people I call friends today, I made instant connections that only grew over time. Another great moment I can think of is our first Healthcare Disparities committee meeting. I really enjoyed the conversations we had as a small group introducing and understanding the facts of this broad and important issue which helped me understand the impact and weight issues such as healthcare disparities have on communities. 

Overall, being fairly new to YouthBridge, there is still much I haven’t accomplished and experienced. But I’m passionate and excited to continue to learn about issues that impact our city and communities.

IMMERSED IN COMMUNITY WITH ASPIRING CHANGEMAKERS

by Sylvie Raab

Hi! My name is Sylvie and I am currently a junior at the Ramaz School. I was excited to join YouthBridge because I am interested in immersing myself in a community of motivated NYC high school students and aspiring changemakers. I am eager to connect with this diverse network, learn what passions, talents and ideas others are excited about and to collaborate with this community as we expand our knowledge together.

When I first met my cohort in August, I knew YouthBridge was going to exceed my expectations. I was thrilled to join this incredible group of teens and the Criminal Justice Committee where we hold in-depth discussions on reimagining our justice system. Because everyone comes from diverse backgrounds and has different perspectives, every conversation has pushed me to broaden my understanding, and I have learned so much about various issues with the current system.

In this month’s skill-building workshop, we had the privilege to learn from Don Kao who helped us recognize and unpack our internal biases and the ingrained misperceptions we might not even realize we have. Through his approach to community-building across differences, Don guided us to confront these biases directly.

A highlight was the Boat Exercise, where we were split into groups of four and given 14 cards, each representing a unique individual with a distinct characteristic like race, sexuality, health, age, and occupation. In a hypothetical flood scenario, we had to choose only 10 of the 14 people to save due to limited space. After each group made its selections, we realized that most groups had chosen to leave the people with the same traits off the boats. Later, Don revealed that he had a trait of one of the individuals that we had left off the boat, breaking the “game” mentality and helping me fully process that we can’t judge people based on one characteristic. This workshop helped me realize how harmful biases can be and highlighted the importance of empathy, open-mindedness and understanding.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue these deep, impactful conversations and to keep growing alongside my cohort. I look forward to learning more from the unique perspectives and insights that each workshop brings as we work together to understand complex issues and make meaningful connections.

ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

by Mohammad Arbab

I joined YouthBridge because I wanted to meet other students who are passionate about leadership and making a difference. I thought it would be a great way to learn new skills, hear from various mentors, and work on projects that actually matter.

The workshops are even better than I expected. My favorite part was this group activity where we came up with a list of 4 people to save during a storm. It was interesting to see how all the groups had different responses. At the end, the guest speaker pointed out how the prompt didn't ask us to leave the rest of the people in the storm. One big takeaway for me was realizing that being a good leader isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about asking the right questions and helping others express themselves.

I’m really looking forward to applying what I’ve learned to future projects and getting to know the other members better. I can’t wait to see the impact we can make together!