The YMCA of Delaware is excited to welcome home local high school students Pamela Argudo-Rodriguez and Siddhi Dinavahi of the Charter School of Wilmington who participated in the 2024 YMCA Changemakers Summit June 12-14 in Washington, D.C.
Argudo-Rodriguez and Dinavahi were two out of 80 students across the country who participated in the event. Now in its third year, the YMCA Changemakers Summit offers rising 9th–12th graders the opportunity to propose a project that addresses a critical issue or need in their communities. Finalists receive $5,000 to implement their project in their community.
The two students presented a proposal called Delaware Connections, a bridge-building career mentorship program which aims to address the root causes of career instability and underemployment in Delaware’s disadvantaged communities. By fostering personalized connections between mentors and mentees, the program empowers individuals to achieve better career outcomes and turn seemingly unachievable dreams into achievable action steps. The project helps create a future where Delawareans can receive the guidance and support they need to thrive professionally, ultimately strengthening our community.
Although Argudo-Rodriguez’s and Dinavahi’s project was not a finalist, the YMCA of Delaware is very proud of their hard work and dedication to creating impact in our communities.
“Through programs like YMCA Changemakers, the Y empowers young people to reach their full potential as thoughtful, caring and dedicated community leaders,” said Anesha Law, Community Executive at the Walnut Street YMCA. “I am so incredibly proud of the YMCA of Delaware’s own emerging leaders, Pamela and Siddhi, for their participation in the summit and encourage them to continue their work on their project, which is sure to create lasting impact in our communities for many years to come.”
The Changemakers Summit is informed by the YMCA’s Changemaker Strategy, which aims to prepare young people to be active contributors and stakeholders in decision-making within their communities. The Changemaker Strategy is guided by 3 principles: beliefs and values, meaningful experiences, and intentional settings.