Editor’s Note: Startland is the parent organization of Startland News. This piece was produced independently by editorial staff unaffiliated with student-run programming such as this.
When members of the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI) take the spotlight Thursday evening, they’ll have plenty in common — while acknowledging that differences within their group give them strength.
“Our eyes and smile, the same. The affection we receive is not — sisters,” reads a poem written by a student participating in the all-women’s cohort, which aims to equip young people from high schools across Kansas City with the tools necessary to solve social problems and empower them to put such skills to use as entrepreneurs.
“This showcase is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people are empowered with the tools and mentorship to turn their ideas into action,” said Christina Hocker, director of education and skill-building at Startland.
“The SCI Showcase not only celebrates their hard work but also serves as a call to action for our community to support the next generation of leaders.”
Thursday’s showcase also brings together educators and entrepreneurs for a first-of-its-kind networking hour intended to encourage collaboration between founders and teachers.
Kansas City high school students participate in Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
“Our Starter Social is something we’ve wanted to host for some time,” said Julie Leonhardt, executive director, noting preparations are under way to engage entrepreneurs and educators in meaningful conversations that bridge the gap between two ecosystems she believes are stronger together.
“If we want to succeed in bringing real-world learning opportunities to the classroom — our teachers need immediate access to social capital,” she added. “They need to build relationships with founders who can help inspire the young people in their classrooms.”
The event will double as a final lesson for students in the cohort, giving them real-world networking experience as they pitch their ideas to the community.
Click here to register for the showcase, presented by BOK Financial.
In honor of Global Entrepreneurship Week-Kansas City, which runs Nov. 18-23, Startland News is facilitating a fan favorite contest — allowing readers to review solutions from the cohort and award one team a $500 prize.
From women’s rights to climate change and gender inequality, these young women are sounding the alarm with their social solutions. Read more about their budding ventures below, then cast a vote for a fan favorite pitch.
The EcoEducate team from the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
EcoEducate KC
Imagine a world where caring for the environment is as fundamental as math or reading. We’re EcoEducate KC and our solution will bridge the gap between core subjects and environmental awareness in schools.
Founders: Maria Lynam, Esther Uwizeye, Ania Taylor, Moira Schirk
The Bloom Together team from the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
Bloom Together
We’re Bloom Together and we’ve noticed a lag in support for mental health experiences. Our solution solidifies our mission to make sure mental health resources are more easily and readily accessible to high school students and staff.
Founders: Claire Hall, Medha Goli, Leanna Byrd
The For Our Youth team from the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
For Our Youth
We saw people lacking confidence in the security of their future — constantly struggling and living paycheck to paycheck. We’re For Our Youth and our solution helps families break this cycle through financial literacy.
Founders: Ellia Jones, Alexandria Tan, Fayth George
The EqualizeIt team from the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
EqualizeIt
We envision a better world — where young girls aren’t left feeling like certain careers are unattainable. Where girls are no longer giving up dreams of becoming doctors or lawyers because they don’t have the resources to realize them. We’re EqualizeIt and our solution will help girls become whoever they want to be.
Founders: Mallory Wilkerson and Avaya Hall
The Justice For Kids team from the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
Justice For Kids
Did you know approximately 1.5 million children are affected each year by custody cases in the United States? We’re Justice For Kids and our solution — Letters of Light — will give them an outlet to express themselves and their feelings as they cope with these experiences.
Founders: Neha Khan, Kendyll Gethers, Isabelle Knapp, Alexis David
The Her Voice, Her Choice team from the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
Her Voice, Her Choice
We’re Her Voice, Her Choice and we’re making sure women are better educated on their reproductive rights — and human rights overall.
Founders: Sara Gobin, Andrea Burns, Tamia Hall
The Justice For Minds team from the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
Justice For Minds
Picture this — you exit the justice system with no resources, no support, and no ability to find your way around. We’re Justice For Minds and our solution will change this reality for those struggling to get back on their feet.
Founders: Valerie Sandoval and Rayghan Williams
The Woman’s Rights Group team from the 12th cohort of Startland’s Social Change Internship (SCI); photo by Greysen Williams, Startland
The Woman’s Rights Group
We’re the Woman’s Rights Group and we’ve had enough of the misrepresentation of women issues in education. Our solution will change the game, creating a more equal playing field and better informed citizens.
Founders: Elizabeth Wrinkles, Ellie Simpson and Riley Edmond
