(L-R), Operation Refuge youth leader Sidney Fasion; youth delegate Melanie Gonzalez, Wayne Memorial High School with her mother (at back); Rebecca Irby, PEAC Institute; youth delegate Demari Jenning, Wayne Memorial HS and her mother (Courtesy of Operation Refuge)
This March, a group of passionate high school students from Wayne County will take their voices and their creativity to the world stage. Traveling to New York City, they will present at the United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) conference, using art, poetry, and digital storytelling to advocate for peace, justice, and a nuclear-free future.
A new program aimed at helping students is being launched thanks to the hard work of three wonderful organizations. Operation Refuge, a nonprofit organization based in Inkster, Michigan, is dedicated to serving the community. The PEAC Institute is known for providing valuable educational resources and support to learners. Lastly, the Greater Detroit Chapter of the United Nations Association focuses on promoting global citizenship and awareness. Together, these organizations are teaming up to empower students and create valuable opportunities for their growth and development.
Leading the student delegation is Rebecca Irby, founder and president of PEAC Institute, who was a key member of the coalition that won the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize for the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.
“This project empowers young people to step onto the global stage and make their voices heard,” Irby said.
“At a time when the world faces complex challenges, we must equip the next generation with the tools to advocate for justice, equity and peace. By connecting Wayne County’s youth to the United Nations, we are fostering leaders who understand the power of their voice and ability to inspire change – in their communities and around the world.”
To prepare students supported by Operation Refuge for their future on the global stage, a special mentorship program was created. Each student was paired with experienced college seniors from Morehouse College and Georgia State University. They connected through a series of engaging online meetings, where they discussed important topics like peace and justice, looking at both past and current issues that influence our world today.
The talks also covered the skill of public speaking, with mentors sharing helpful tips and personal stories that helped build confidence and improve communication. There was a strong focus on leadership skills, where students learned about working together, making choices, and the significance of getting involved in their communities.
“I never thought I would have a chance to represent my community at the United Nations,” Priya Williams, a participant and senior at Summit Academy, in Romulus, MI said.
“This trip will show the world what Wayne County youth can do, and I hope to inspire others to dream big, too.”
According to Velma Jean Overman, executive director of Operation Refuge, it is a community effort to empower these future leaders and raise a total of $35,000 to ensure this experience is a reality. Overman credited the Schoolcraft College Foundation with helping to kickstart the initiative with a $10,000 matching gift and challenge to the community to join in this transformational effort. She also added that all funds will be used to cover travel, lodging and program costs for the students and mentors.
“By supporting these students, you’re not just helping them achieve a dream, you’re empowering young leaders who will shape a better future for us all,” Overman said.
To learn more and donate, visit www.operationrefuge.org.
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