Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA
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From Tampa to Tallahassee: YMCA Teens Take Bold Steps Toward Political Leadership

(L-R) Tiff Goff, Rachel Gonzales, Anika Sanka, Rowan Sheer, Kingsley Buhari
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February 20, 2025

Above (L-R) Tiff Goff, Rachel Gonzales, Anika Sanka, Rowan Sheer, Kingsley Buhari

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is thrilled to announce that four of our dedicated teens are currently in Tallahassee for an exciting Youth in Government (YIG) trip! Rowan, Anika, Rachel and Kingsley are inspiring young leaders who are not only eager to learn, but are passionate about bringing their newfound insights and experiences back to Tampa to help foster and expand our YMCA YIG program. 

These teens first experienced the YIG program at the YMCA Changemakers Retreat last November, where they connected with like-minded peers and learned about the power of youth advocacy. Driven by this experience, they have taken the initiative to further their education and grow the presence of YIG in the Tampa area—ensuring that even more teens can benefit from the program. 

Anne Jeffrey, Operations Director with the Tampa YMCA, shares her enthusiasm: "We are thrilled to have relaunched the YIG program at our YMCAs this year!"

She continues, "Teens are our future! Their voices matter—whether it’s mobilizing their peers, advocating for important issues or starting political clubs to drive change in their communities. We have a responsibility to help them develop these skills and amplify their voices. YIG provides a safe and supportive space for teens to learn how to be politically active, ask tough questions and engage in meaningful dialogue."

At the YMCA, we believe that youth empowerment is essential to building a better tomorrow. By investing in our teens today, we are ensuring that they have the tools, confidence and leadership skills needed to be tomorrow’s changemakers. We are proud to support our teens in their journey to create positive change, not just within their communities but also on a broader, global scale.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our YMCA teens. You can help foster change and support their growth and success. Donate today and help make the changemakers of tomorrow.