What's Happening?
The NextGEN summer internship program, organized by the Flossmoor nonprofit You Matter 2, culminated in a Pitch Day event where 14 interns presented their business and social impact ideas to a panel of local professionals. The program, overseen by Kalyn Victor, aims to prepare high school students for real-world challenges through entrepreneurship, teamwork, and professional development. Interns chose career tracks such as Arts and Media, STEM, Business, or Healthcare and Public Service, identified problems, and proposed solutions. The event took place at the Discover Center's Shine Bright Community Center in Chicago, with judges scoring the presentations based on a rubric. TrioSync, a team comprising Gabriella Olugbemi, Lorin Metoyer, and Jenesys Harris, won the competition with a score of 299 out of 300, impressing judges with their implementation plan and presentation on the need for anesthesia in East Africa.
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Why It's Important?
The Pitch Day event highlights the importance of empowering youth through practical experiences in entrepreneurship and professional development. By engaging students in real-world problem-solving, programs like NextGEN foster critical thinking and innovation among young individuals. The success of TrioSync underscores the potential impact of well-prepared presentations and strategic planning, which are essential skills in any professional setting. This initiative not only boosts the confidence of participants but also prepares them for future challenges in their chosen fields, contributing to a more skilled and proactive workforce.
What's Next?
Following the success of Pitch Day, participants are likely to continue developing their ideas and skills, potentially leading to further opportunities in their respective fields. The positive feedback and recognition from judges may encourage students to pursue careers in entrepreneurship or social impact sectors. Additionally, You Matter 2 may expand or refine its internship program based on the outcomes and feedback from this event, aiming to reach more students and enhance their professional development experiences.
Beyond the Headlines
The NextGEN program's focus on diverse career tracks and real-world problem-solving reflects broader societal needs for innovation and inclusivity. By addressing issues such as misinformation, diversity in STEM, and healthcare challenges, the interns are engaging with critical topics that have significant implications for society. The program's emphasis on teamwork and professional growth also highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing complex issues, fostering a culture of mutual support and shared learning among young leaders.
