Alana Wilson
Hi everyone! My name is Alana Wilson. I'm 18 years old and I'm excited to be one of the Youth Ambassadors. I recently graduated from KIPP St. Louis High School, and I'm attending college in the Fall!
A fun fact about me is that I am a Captain of the step team. I've been stepping for about 7 years. I will continue this in college!
This is my 2nd year participating in STL Youth Jobs, but this is my first year as an ambassador! My favorite part about being in the program so far is working with a lot of different people; this helps me get out of my comfort zone more often. I'm looking forward to the new bonds I'll create and the new experiences I'll make.
Dakota Nguyen
Hello! my name is Dakota Nguyen. I am a 2024 graduate of Mckinley CLA. Next school year I am attending STLCC for general studies.
I was in Learn & Earn through STL Youth Jobs in the Spring, and I was placed at Sigel Elementary. I loved being a Teacher’s Assistant and getting to become another support system for the kids there.
One piece of advice for others my age is to put yourself out there because you never know what opportunities will open for you when you try.
Jahsiri Jackson
My name is Jahsiri Jackson. I’m a junior at Saint Louis University majoring in Biology on the pre-PA track.
I’ve been participating in STL Youth Jobs since 2021. Last year I was placed at BJC in the Community Engagement Center. It was a great opportunity to network with others.
My favorite memory with the program was getting my first internship and opening my first bank account. This program allows me to be independent, and that’s what I like the most.
One piece of advice I have for people coming into this program is to take full advantage of the opportunities given to you.
Nile Winfield
My name is Nile Winfield! I plan on attending STLCC Florissant Valley in the Fall getting my General Transfers degree.
I participated in STL Youth Jobs in 2022 during my sophomore year of high school. I got the opportunity to work as a grocery clerk at Fresh Thyme Market in the Foundry.
My favorite memory in the program was every time I received my bi-weekly paycheck!
My advice for the upcoming STL Youth Jobs participants is: don’t stress yourself out and enjoy life. Focus on school but don’t forget to have fun.
Quwinten Blassingame
I currently attend St. Louis Community College. I am going into my second year with the goal of getting my Associates in Business. I want to major in Engineering once I transfer over to a university.
I’ve been participating in STL Youth Jobs since 2022; I was placed at Fathers and Families Support Center for my worksite.
I would say my favorite memory is when I was interviewing for the YA position; it means a lot to me because I knew that taking on this role would take me out of my comfort zone and teach me how to be an effective leader.
One piece of advice I would give to younger people is to dream big. To break the cycle of failure, you have to dream big. When you manifest your success, it will come because you're motivated and focused on achieving the goals you have at hand. Your dreams are valid, and with dedication and hard work, you can turn them into a reality. Embrace the power of your ambitions, believe in yourself, and never underestimate the impact of dreaming big. Let your aspirations propel you forward towards a future filled with success and fulfillment. Dream big, work hard, and watch your dreams transform into achievements.