During their midwinter recess, students from across our schools expanded their knowledge and skills at our Citywide Leadership Institute. As part of the program, students gathered at Global Kids’ headquarters to explore the history of race, identifying common themes and developing a historical timeline of key figures and events. They engaged in hands-on activities, such as creating identity flowers to illustrate intersectionality and brainstorming alternatives to mass incarceration, demonstrating their creativity and critical thinking as they examined history’s impact on today’s world. 

A highlight of the program was a special session with Dr. Edward Paulino, Assistant Professor at John Jay College, who shared powerful stories about historical racism and its continued influence in society. This meaningful discussion was followed by a visit to the African Burial Ground National Monument, a national historic landmark honoring the final resting place of free and enslaved Africans.

In addition, several students toured York College, gaining firsthand insight into college life as they prepare for the application and admissions process. During the trip, students explored the campus library, took a lap around the track inside the health and physical education building, and toured the nursing laboratories, where they role-played with mannequins in a simulated hospital setting. Moreover, the youth leaders interacted with current students, who introduced them to various programs in CUNY including dual degrees and five-year combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees. 

Following the Institute, students put their learnings into action by launching a social media campaign to raise awareness about imposter syndrome, empowering youth to build confidence and overcome self-doubt.

Look out for our leaders as they share their newfound knowledge in the classrooms, on social media, and in their communities!