Cameron Jones, a senior at Propel Andrew Street High School in Pittsburgh, PA, has a wide array of interests that might seem disconnected at first glance—Greek Orthodox dancing, track and field, music creation, and youth advocacy. Yet, for Cameron, these passions are united by a common thread: a drive to celebrate diversity and create spaces where young people can connect, thrive, and have their voices heard.
“I love creating and promoting spaces that allow people to be heard,” Cameron says. “That was my biggest catalyst for getting to where I am today, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.”
Let’s dive deeper into Cameron’s journey as a youth leader and changemaker.
Building Community and Belonging at School
Cameron believes teachers play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging at school. He values when educators admit their mistakes, as it sets an example for students to grow through open dialogue.
He also feels a strong connection with his peers through activities like the “house wars” program at his school, where students are divided into groups or “houses” to compete in problem-solving challenges. These activities, he says, help him connect with classmates he might not have interacted with otherwise, creating a real sense of community.
Cameron’s role as a student advocate has made him a voice for youth at Propel Andrew Street High. He works with school administrators to ensure that students’ perspectives are considered in future planning.
“Understand[ing] their vision of what the future of Propel Andrew High School will look like is key. Through my interactions, I ensure that the student body’s needs are considered in these advancements.”
Expanding Belonging Beyond the Classroom
Outside of school, Cameron is deeply involved in Youth Enrichment Services (YES), which he credits with teaching him how to “embody a changemaker.” One standout experience has been his time with the Youth Civic Leadership Academy, a program through YES that he calls the starting point of his “journey toward becoming a changemaker.”
In this program, Cameron has participated in a variety of community-engagement activities, from exploring the Heinz History Center to developing a research project on youth incarceration and restorative justice. One of his proudest moments? Giving a speech alongside Pittsburgh’s mayor, where he discussed the importance of changemaking. Though nervous at first, Cameron felt supported by both the Mayor’s Office and his YES community.
Currently, Cameron is involved in shaping Pittsburgh’s Youth Commission, an initiative aimed at keeping young voices at the forefront of discussions about the city’s future. He plans to continue collaborating with YES and other local organizations to ensure youth perspectives remain central.
Driven by Change—Now and in the Future
Cameron’s passion for advocacy and community-building is fueled by a deep belief in the power of change.
“In promoting change within myself and the community, I create a domino effect of change happening around me.”
Looking ahead, Cameron’s experiences have shaped his post-graduation plans. He hopes to attend Yale University, where he plans to study Computer Science, Political Science, and African American History. His long-term goal is to fight for justice in education, advocating for a system that serves students better– and positions them to lead for change.
Cameron Jones is a shining example of the power of youth advocacy, civic engagement, and the belief that embracing change can lead to a brighter future for all.
With Cameron leading the charge, Pittsburgh’s youth are proving that the next generation of changemakers is already here—and they’re ready to make a difference.
Growing a Network for Youth Thriving | The Civic Learning Ecosystem
This story, and other Student Spotlights, represent the heart of what the Civic Learning Ecosystem strives to achieve: more young people finding their voice, agency, and sense of belonging in a world that often feels disconnected. Our network plays a crucial role in ensuring that more students like Cameron have the tools, support, and opportunities they need to grow into confident, engaged community leaders. By connecting schools, community organizations, and youth leaders, we are building an infrastructure that is reimagining civic education to meet students where they are—grounded in collaboration, innovation, and equity, and centered on the voices of young people themselves.
Be part of this network!
Join us on October 8, 2024 for a workshop titled Youth-Adult Partnerships for Inclusive and Sustainable Decision-Making to learn from other young leaders and gain tools to amplify youth voices in your own work.
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