Today we’d like to introduce you to Chyna Jackson.
Hi Chyna, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my journey in eighth grade through a program called STEM Greenhouse, where the staff saw potential in me and pushed me to go further. They encouraged me to write an essay for the Michigan Afterschool Partnership, and winning that contest opened up everything for me. At just 12 years old, I became one of Michigan’s Afterschool Ambassadors, which gave me the chance to speak publicly, meet new people, and grow my voice. From there, I kept writing, kept showing up, and kept being offered opportunities — from news features to more contests, events, and public speaking roles across Michigan. Each step gave me more confidence and helped me build the platform I have today, and I’m grateful for how these experiences have shaped my path and the connections I’ve made along the way.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Even with all the opportunities I’ve had, there were times when balancing school, public speaking, and leadership roles felt overwhelming. I also faced a lot of moments where I was the youngest person in the room, and because of that, I was often overlooked or not taken as seriously at first. It pushed me to work even harder to prove that my age didn’t define what I was capable of. I had to learn how to manage my time, stay confident, and keep showing up even when I felt unsure. In the end, those challenges helped me grow the most—they taught me resilience, professionalism, and how to trust my own voice no matter who else is in the room.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Most of my work centers around youth advocacy, public speaking, and writing. I’ve always felt like young people deserve spaces where they’re heard and taken seriously, so I use my voice to highlight why afterschool programs and leadership opportunities matter. Over time, that’s led me to speak at events across the state, write pieces that have been recognized by different organizations, and stay involved in programs that support students who just need someone to believe in them.
I’m also a mentor through the Endless Opportunities program, which honestly means a lot to me. I get to help younger students work through things I’ve already been through, and it feels good knowing I can make their path a little easier. watching them get more confident and excited about learning is one of the best feelings. I’m forever thankful to the STEM Program because they have been a big part of everything I do.
One thing I’m really proud of is being named Youth of the Year at 14. Not because of the title, but because it showed me that what I’m doing actually matters. It reminded me that you don’t have to wait until you’re older to make an impact.
What sets me apart is my determination. I’m usually the youngest person in the room, but I still show up ready to speak, listen, and represent my community the best I can. I hope my story shows other young people that your age doesn’t limit your purpose. If I can make a difference while still figuring things out myself, then they can too.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
One thing I really want readers to know is that you don’t need a perfect story to create a meaningful one. I used to think the things I went through or the mistakes I made meant I couldn’t be that “successful” person people look up to. But honestly, those parts of my life are what pushed me to grow. Holding onto the past just keeps you from noticing how far you’ve already come.
A quote that sticks with me is: “Even the sun has to rise after the darkest hours.” I think about that a lot, because it reminds me that the hard moments don’t last forever, and you’re allowed to keep trying, keep changing, and keep becoming someone you’re proud of.
If you’re reading this, I hope you know you deserve to take up space, even if you’re still figuring yourself out. You don’t have to have everything together to show up. Walk into rooms that feel too big. Try things that scare you. Say yes to opportunities you think you’re not ready for.
Because sometimes the moments that change your whole life are the ones you were closest to giving up on. And even if you don’t feel it yet, you’re still rising- one day at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://stemgreenhouse.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its.chychyy?igsh=MXl5a3Z6OGN1NXR6&utm_source=qr
- Other: https://www.endlessopportunities.org/
