The inaugural cohort of the Environmental Justice Ambassadors program celebrated their graduation on November 19, marking a significant milestone for Save the Sound and Junta for Progressive Action. This first-of-its-kind collaboration, part of Junta’s Youth Empowerment Program, brought together eight dedicated teenagers who completed intensive training to become advocates for environmental justice in their communities.
Behind the Program: Building Tomorrow’s Advocates
This program went beyond traditional education, blending theory with action. In two months, ambassadors learned the history of environmental justice, explored the roots of inequities in environmental policies, and discovered how to advocate for change through civic participation.
What set this program apart were the hands-on experiences: ambassadors worked side by side with their peers in community cleanups and rain garden installations. These activities allowed them to witness firsthand how collective action can lead to tangible improvements in their neighborhoods.
“The Environmental Ambassador Program inspired students to take action, create change, and build a greener future for our community. This initiative empowered the youth and fostered environmental stewardship as well as community resilience,” said Kiana Cintron, youth leader and program assistant with Junta for Progressive Action.
The program’s structure provided students with opportunities to apply what they learned, sparking meaningful connections between their academic studies and real-world environmental advocacy. Many ambassadors shared how these experiences transformed their understanding of environmental justice and inspired them to act.
Graduation Day: A Celebration of Progress and Possibility
The ceremony wasn’t just a recognition of the ambassadors’ achievements—it was a call to action for the broader community. Keyana White, environmental justice specialist with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, delivered an inspiring keynote speech that resonated deeply with attendees. She reminded everyone that youth advocacy is central to shaping equitable environmental policies: “Your work is what will help us achieve a healthier, safer, and greener world.”
Beyond the speeches, the ambassadors themselves took center stage, sharing reflections on their journeys. For example, EJ Ambassador Keila Citron expressed how the program bridged her classroom learning with real-world applications: “One of my favorite experiences was learning about community organizing. It tied into what we were studying at school, making it even more impactful.”
Insights from the Graduates
During the ceremony, ambassadors shared advice for future participants, underscoring the transformative nature of the program. “Come into the program with an open mind,” urged EJ Ambassador Guillermo Piscil. “The knowledge you gain will stay with you and give you hope for what’s possible.” EJ Ambassador Melissa Rodriguez emphasized the power of unity, saying, “Seeing other young people working toward the same goals inspired me to believe we can achieve amazing things when we work together.”
The event concluded with a sense of pride and anticipation for what this inaugural cohort will accomplish in the future. Families and supporters stayed afterward to mingle, share stories, and enjoy refreshments, underscoring the sense of community that was built throughout the program.
Looking to the Future
This pilot program represents the beginning of a movement to engage and empower youth in environmental justice. Plans are already underway for future cohorts, with lessons from this year shaping the program’s evolution.
Congratulations to the Environmental Justice Ambassadors Class of 2024! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.