“YYGS was my opportunity to realize that no one is ever truly alone in the world, and that anyone can always help someone. I learned that the world’s problems will not be solved by the elite few but by the passionate, prepared many, and teamwork may be our best hope yet for a bountiful future.”
Last year, I joined for my first year in Illinois’ Youth and Government program, run by the YMCA. Youth and Government is a government simulation program wherein students have the opportunity to assume various governmental positions, such as in the press, as lobbyists, in the judicial system, or as legislators.
After attending YYGS in June, I felt I couldn’t wait and had to act now to address global problems among the future leaders of Illinois. I began to research the various available positions, and found that running for Governor would indeed be long but rewarding journey.
In our process of campaigning, we realized that it is an honor in itself to freely participate in democracy and to further family, service, and dedication; while the election still looms ahead, we consider this journey one small victory in its own right.