By: Emma Smith
Not only are delegates making waves of change within their local communities, but some of our very own delegates are making an impact on national levels. The North Carolina YMCA Youth & Government program isn’t the only place for the leaders of today and tomorrow (that’s us!) to be involved in government and changemaking, as these impressive delegates are already aware, there are also many national programs that allow the opportunity to have a positive influence.
Fatou Lo, a delegate from Winston-Salem, is not only a 2025 Associate Justice. She was also selected to serve in this year's United States Youth Senate Program. Through this program, student delegates hear major policy addresses from senators, cabinet members, officials from the Departments of State and Defense, as well as directors of other federal agencies. She will also have the opportunity to participate in meetings with the President and a justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Congratulations, Fatou!
Teddie Taylor, a dedicated delegate from Jacksonville, has been selected for the YMCA Youth Advocate Program. Through this four-month advocacy training program, students are given a platform to have their voices heard on issues important to the Y. It also gives students the opportunity to gain real-world experience advocating with Members of Congress and their offices in Washington, D.C. Congratulations, Teddie!
Alisha Reynolds Welch, a delegate from Winston-Salem who is serving as a Chief Justice this year, has also been named to the 2nd Cohort of the YMCA of the USA Youth Advisory Council. This is a year-long program that allows young council members to advise and support Y-USA’s senior leadership and national board on policies, programs, and opportunities to allow the Y to remain culturally accurate and relevant on local, state, and national levels. Congratulations, Alisha!
We are so proud to have these delegates be the voice of the next generation and to also represent all of us here in the Youth & Government program. Continue making a positive impact, delegates!
