Youth Afterschool Ambassadors
ACT Now’s Youth Afterschool Ambassadors (YAA) is an 8-month leadership program where Illinois high schoolers will develop and build upon their advocacy skills.
What is YAA?
YAA is ACT Now’s Youth Afterschool Ambassadors program, an advocacy training for Illinois high schoolers!
Youth Afterschool Ambassadors learn how to effectively communicate about their afterschool experiences with elected officials and how to use their afterschool stories to advocate for change.
Meet This Year’s YAA Cohort
Cindy A.
Hey everyone! My name is Cindy A., and I’m a high school senior. My after-school program is Hana Center in Chicago, Illinois, and I love after-school because it allows me to showcase my leadership skills, such as communication and strategic thinking, and articulate how passionate I am about researching social issues that plague my school and neighborhood community. Finding out about YAA was a great thing for me because I know the program will strengthen my public speaking skills and advocacy knowledge.
Aaron G.
Hello! I am Aaron G., a sophmore scholar attending Cahokia High School. I am a part of many afterschool programs, such as SIUE Trio Upwardbound where I’ve learned the importance of having spaces that support growth and development outside of school. I love afterschool because it gave me the opportunity to make connections, learn and develop on skills, and overall prepare me for my future. I joined the Youth Afterschool Ambassadors Program because I am very excited to contribute to this program’s mission to make a difference and learning how to be a strong advocate for my fellow students of Illinois.
Samrudh G.
Hi! I’m Samrudh, a junior in high school, and I’m part of my school’s debate program, which has helped me grow as a leader and find my voice outside the classroom. I wanted to join YAA to help make sure that every student has the opportunity to find what they love and participate in their hobbies through afterschool programs.
Elena R.
Hi!! My name is Elena and I’m a junior at Richwoods High School in Peoria! The afterschool program I’m repping is my school’s Science Club. We go to elementary schools in the area lacking science programs and teach them all things STEM! I wanted to join YAA to learn more about advocacy and what more I can do in my community! I’m so excited!!
Mary Kate S.
Hi, my name is Mary Kate S.! I’m a sophomore in high school and participate in Speech and Debate. I love my afterschool program because it allows me to interact with other students and my wonderful coaches in a less professional setting, creating strong bonds and nurturing relationships. I wanted to join YAA because I want to be a politician in my future, and the program will help me with the skills I need to achieve my goals!
Gio A.., Mentor
My name is Gio A., I am a junior in high school and I am currently a member of College Possible a program that helps you develop your college career. I enjoy afterschool because it helps students develop new skills and ideas that benefit the greater good for our society.
Milan S., Mentor
Hi, I’m Milan Sanchala I’m a Sophomore at St. Charles North High School and I’m in Model UN and DECA.
“There are no limits to what you can accomplish, except the limits you place in your thinking” -Brian Tracy.
