April 2025

By Kirah Young | President, Black Student Union – Colgan High School | 2025 Washington-Rosenwald HBCU Scholar

Editor’s Note:
Kirah Young is one of the 2025 Washington-Rosenwald HBCU Scholars, a scholarship awarded in partnership with the Combat Antisemitism Movement. This honor celebrates the legacy of Booker T. Washington and Julius Rosenwald—visionaries who built thousands of schools for Black students across the Jim Crow South. Each recipient receives $5,000 in recognition of their academic achievement and commitment to service. Kirah will be attending Hampton University in the fall, and as President of the Black Student Union at Colgan High School, she already exemplifies leadership in action. We are proud to amplify her voice and her journey.
– Mayor Derrick Wood

Attending the African American Mayors Association (AAMA) Conference was one of the most inspiring experiences I’ve ever had.

Being surrounded by mayors and leaders from across the country—people who look like me and are making real change in their communities—was both empowering and eye-opening. It reminded me that leadership isn’t about having a fancy title or a perfect path; it’s about being present, listening, and staying committed to your purpose.

One of the most impactful parts of the conference was hearing the mayors speak about their personal journeys and the responsibility that comes with their roles. Their honesty stood out to me. They talked about the challenges they’ve faced, but also the joy and pride that comes with serving their cities. It made me realize that leadership is just as much about resilience and integrity as it is about strategy or policy.

I’m especially grateful to Mayor Wood, who I had the chance to meet (at my BSU meeting as a guest speaker) prior to the conference. He played a major role in helping me attend by recommending (I apply) for the AAMA scholarship, and even more importantly, he helped me build meaningful connections while I was there. Watching the way he moved through the space—introducing people, offering encouragement, and genuinely investing in the younger generation—was something I’ll never forget.

He didn’t just support me from afar—he showed up, and that made a huge difference.

This experience gave me a clearer picture of the kind of leader I want to be.

I don’t have to wait until I’m older or in a specific position to make an impact.

 Leadership can start right now—through the way I speak up, the causes I support, and the communities I choose to serve.