Alumni Essay 44

“Alright, Jayshon, this program can either help you or be a waste of your time.” That was my initial mindset when I joined Youth Lead Kansas City, sitting on a bus with students from my school and across the Kansas City Metro. The seats were all arranged, and we each had to say our names. At first, I treated this program like another field trip or an excuse to get out of class. I participated in activities and listened with caution. I assumed leadership was being composed, prepared, and impressive. 

Then came our annual career fair. The facility was loud, business cards were given, and students were talking at each table. I remember standing away from a table with a local bank, deciding what to say. I was sweating anxiously. Before joining Youth Lead KC, I had barely any clue how to network or connect with people on my own. I would have told myself,” I will try harder next time.” But something inside changed my mind. This program pushed us to step out of our comfort zones. So, I decided to step forward and strike up a conversation. I introduced myself with, “Hi! My name is Jayshon, and I would like to know more about your business.” That one initiative went from a single greeting to a continuous conversation about finance and investing. I asked them questions that I would have been afraid to ask. They responded with assertiveness and intrigue. They showed me how financial institutions can widen bridges for people. As I walked away, I realized that leadership begins with initiative, the ability to choose courage over comfort. 

Youth Lead Kansas City helped me build my courage. Being surrounded by leaders from around Kansas City opened my perspective. I realized that leadership needs awareness and communal empathy. There also has to be responsibility. Recognizing problems is not enough; you must engage with them. This program emphasizes action and commitment through networking, community service, or collaboration. I realize now that growth can only occur when you put yourself in situations that foster it in the first place. 

As I pursue higher education and a financial career, I want to apply what Youth Lead KC taught me to be more transparent in my community. Financial systems and literacy can feel difficult to comprehend for some families. I want to ease the process and make personal finance accessible. Leadership in this sense uses knowledge responsibly and ensures that financial growth is not reserved for those who have access to it. 

Leaving a legacy expands opportunities. It means that anyone who comes after me will not feel overwhelmed when entering a new space. It means to invest in people the way Youth Lead KC invested in me. Legacy is about responsibility and doing what is best for your community. You have to ensure that growth continues beyond your own personal successes. When I first joined Youth Lead Kansas City, I questioned whether it would have an impact. Standing at the career fair table, I realized that it already had. This program did not teach me to become a leader, but it taught me how to act like one, even when I feel uncomfortable.