Our Root the Power interns have been actively engaging in leadership and advocacy.
- Destination Innovation
- May 7
- 2 min read
Root the Power in Action: Youth Leadership, Advocacy & Impact
This season, our Root the Power interns have been actively engaging in leadership, advocacy, and exploration of their futures.
Our interns proudly attended Black Legislative Day at the Kansas State Capitol, where they had the opportunity to witness civic engagement in action. Through a partnership with Voter to Voter, intern Saniya Thompson was invited to speak about her experience as part of the voter-to-voter mobilizer project—highlighting the power of youth voices in shaping democracy.
During the visit, interns Saniya Thompson and Destani Henderson had a memorable
moment connecting with Governor Laura Kelly, who officially recognized February as Black History Month in Kansas.
In addition to civic engagement, our interns expanded their horizons through a Spring Break college tour to Dallas, in partnership with Rise Up for Youth. They explored both University of Texas at Arlington and University of Texas at Dallas—gaining firsthand insight into college life, academic opportunities, and future pathways.
Celebrating Excellence & Expanding Impact
We are proud to celebrate one of our graduating seniors, Leila Crosby of Heights High School, who was awarded the Jacqueline E. Gillon Scholarship. This honor recognizes her dedication, integrity, and commitment to creating positive change in her community.
The scholarship was awarded by the Black Environmental Leaders Association in Cleveland and includes a $1,000 award to support her continued educational journey. Leila’s achievement is a powerful reflection of the leadership and impact our young people bring to the work every day.
In addition to celebrating our youth, Root
the Power continues to expand its reach and learning at the national level. Our Director of Root the Power attended the HBCU Annual Climate Change Conference in New Orleans—a dynamic gathering of students, educators, and leaders focused on environmental justice and climate solutions.
This year’s conference included approximately 474 attendees, 30 sessions, 54 student poster presentations, and representation from 48 colleges and universities. The experience provided valuable insight, connections, and opportunities that will continue to inform and strengthen our work with youth and community.
Milestones & What’s Ahead
We are also proud to share that two of our interns will graduate this year from Heights High School. Their growth, leadership, and commitment to community are a true reflection of what Root the Power stands for.
As we look ahead, we are now recruiting interns for this summer. If you or someone you know is ready to grow as a leader, build community, and make an impact, we invite you to connect with us by emailing jondalyn@destinationinnocation.org.
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