Maria Gavilanez, NYLP Intern/Mentor (7 years)

Being part of NYLP taught me the importance of working with others. Going into schools and giving lessons enabled me to discover that I really wanted to teach. I am graduating this year with my MS in Education and I will be certified to teach English in Grades 7-12. My love for teaching was encouraged by the support I received every year I participated in NYLP! The program helped shape me into the educator and leader that I am today!

Gerardo Melendez, NYLP Intern/Mentor

My time here at the Conservancy is like no other experiences that I have encountered. From my first day as a Junior Ranger, while having group meetings in a trailer just outside the synagogue, to my last summer experience as a college mentor, I owe the team there so much. They have watched me grow from a timid boy to a strong individual who can take on the world. I thank Robin and the team for taking a chance on me when they didn’t have to and watched me grow and progress to not only face my challenges head-on but to flourish as an adult.

Aaliyah Cobbs, NYLP Intern/Mentor (5 years)

Participating in NYLP at the Conservancy helped build my leadership and professionalism and most importantly guided me to choose my career goal of becoming a teacher! The Conservancy is my second home that I will always cherish. Thank you for encouraging me to become the amazing teacher that I aspire to be!

Nasir Preston, NYLP Intern/Mentor

This program has gifted me with a lot of fundamentals in regards to school, moral character, professionalism, and most importantly, succeeding in the world... I love the support that is given the first moment you walk through the doors. I was taught to help people, communicative techniques and giving back to the community, decency, and moral support. As a result of this, I expanded my interest in Studying Criminal Justice and have successfully obtained my Bachelor's Degree in the field and am in the process of applying for NJ State police.

Brianna Mayers, NYLP Intern/Mentor (6 years)

During my internship in NYLP I gained public speaking skills, introductions to various colleges and discovered the joy I derived from teaching others. Now, in my career in education I am a Director of Curriculum and Instruction, being able to lead, educate, support, and advocate for the needs of my students. I am forever grateful to Greater Newark Conservancy and NYLP for shaping my path!

Emmanuel, Media, Summer 2018

My name is Emmanuel. I’m 16 years old and I go to American history. I love math and science and I would like to major in the medical field. I play football for Malcolm X Shabazz high school and I would like to continue playing football in college as well. My contribution to Newark Youth Leadership Program is to inspire people especially the youth about NYLP that it’s a great program to participate in and to learn about many things that I never learned or even thought about and might and will find interest in. Thank You!

Davon F., Media, Summer 2018

My name is Davon I am 16 years old and I attend North Star Academy high school and I will be going to the 11th grade and my biggest interest is in the STEM field and my ideas for NYLP is to spread the ideas to all youth and to all people in the city and to other city’s and to help stop food desserts. 

Jose L., Horticulture, Summer 2019

Since this is my third year here, I honestly enjoyed being a part of this program. This program has allowed me to not be lazy during the summer and help out the community.

Brianna P., Horticulture, Summer 2019

My experience with the NYLP was great. I had a fun experience because at first I thought it was going to be hard, but it was fun and interesting. I would most likely come back next summer.