This summer, our sister campaigns Give901 and Choose901 Alumni have teamed up to give college students the NexGen summer fellowship experience! Through the NexGen program, six Choose901 Alumni (aka Give901 program grads) are connecting with local businesses for summer internships—complete with weekly professional development and networking opportunities.
The goal of NexGen is create opportunity for already-talented students by paving a way for networking at companies like Supreme Staffing, Youth Villages, & City Leadership. Speaking of networking… we have a few young Memphians we’d like you to meet.
Meet Nakayla:
student, NexGen participant, & Future city-changer
Hey everyone! My name is Nakayla Yancey and I am 20 years old. I attend Rhodes College and I am majoring in psychology with hopes of becoming a counselor.
This summer, I am interning at City Leadership as a Choose901: Alumni Intern.
What do you like about your fellowship?
I really enjoy working with the Alumni team in my fellowship. I have always had a relationship with them from various events and high school visits, but actually being with them in the office on a day to day basis is always a fun learning experience. I also enjoy the different summer events and sessions that I have tagged along with them. They have allowed me to learn so much more about Memphis and to create and strengthen relationships and connections.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about helping and encouraging others. I know how important it was for me to be mentored and guided throughout my life, so I want to be able to do that for other people. This is why I want to go into a career of counseling because it will allow me to have a career in doing what I love.
What advice do you have for the next group of NexGen fellows?
My advice for the next group of NexGen fellows is to take advantage of the opportunity and learn as much as you can. NextGen is a really good way for you to make the most of your summer and to also to do things that you enjoy. It can help you to get an idea or a glimpse into your career path and is a great resource for college students.
What Choose901 partner school did you go to?
I went to two Choose901 partner schools. I went to New Hope Christian Academy and graduated in 2014 and I graduated from The Collegiate School of Memphis in 2020.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO IN MEMPHIS?
My favorite things to do in Memphis are to watch the fireworks at the Memphis Redbirds games on Saturdays, and to watch the sunset at Shelby Farms!
INTERNSHIPS are MADE POSSIBLE BY COMPANIES LIKE City Leadership
City Leadership is just one of the many Memphis businesses that is investing in the future of our city through NexGen students—aka the future of Memphis’ workforce, leadership, and potential.
Want to learn more or get involved?
Whether you’re a studnet looking ahead for next summer’s internship, a business interested in partnering with NexGen, or just a regular old Memphian passionate about possibilities—we’re excited you’re excited!
Contact kristen@give901.org for more information.
