My name is Yasmin Ali and I’m a junior at Mayo High School. As a lifelong learner, you can often find me with my nose in a pile of research or in the midst of a gripping Netflix documentary. My ideal relaxation time includes a warm cup of chai and being surrounded by my brilliant family and friends. I currently own and operate a blog with the goal of amplifying the voice of the marginalized. Combined with my experience as the Global Affairs captain at my school, I intend to pursue studies in international affairs and journalism in college; To become a political analyst or correspondent for news outlets. In my future career, I hope to inspire a generation of young black women to trek untraveled paths, write new rules, and be unapologetically themselves in all their endeavors. Additionally, I aspire to shift the current narrative of the news being untrustworthy and “fake.” Further, I'm the Public Relations Director for an organization called 'Rochester Community Initiative' that I helped turn into a Non-profit. RCI is focused on improving our community through amplifying youth voice, intersectional advocacy, community education, and serving underprivileged demographics. Our work is focused on making our community a more just and equitable place for all of its residents through engaging events and programs, fundraisers, and other charitable activities. We also work to provide community members with a platform to speak their truth. With that in mind, any and all scholarships will help decrease concern for how I will continue higher education and ultimately flourish.