Doing interviews with local San Diego broadcast and print media has been an awesome way for Youth Council members to build their communication skills — and they’ve been killing it!

It may seem intimidating at first but after doing them they realized that "it's not too bad." Press interviews allow youth to practice speaking confidently and effectively about important issues such as their efforts to revitalize Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park in City Heights.

This experience helps them learn how to present their thoughts in a professional and concise way, which is a vital skill for leadership, public speaking, and future career opportunities. By sharing their perspectives with a wider audience, they also learn how to handle different types of questions and conversations, which builds their poise and adaptability.

Youth Council members also are showing the region the power of youth voice and action — that young people are capable of driving meaningful change in their communities. So far, their advocacy for Henwood Park has helped secure $1.75 million from the City of San Diego’s budget. On June 10, 2025, City Council approved an additional $2.5 million, which is now awaiting Mayor Todd Gloria’s signature.

Engaging with the media gives them the chance to tell their own personal stories and advocate for the issues that matter most to them. Often, youth are spoken about rather than spoken to, especially in news coverage. When Youth Council members take the microphone, they challenge stereotypes, share authentic experiences and inspire others, especially their peers, to get involved.

Youth Council in the News!

Youth Council feature story by Daylight San Diego: https://www.daylightsandiego.org/mid-city-can-youth-council-san-diego-budget/

Abigail on NBC 7 San Diego: https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/city-council-decision-fiscal-year-2026-budget-deficit/3844266/

Anthony on Times of San Diego: https://timesofsandiego.com/politics/2025/06/10/city-council-restores-popular-programs-in-26-budget-despite-deficit/

Clip of Amelia's testimony on ABC 10: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOYXDoaIwxM

Alan with Belen on Telemundo: https://www.telemundo20.com/noticias/local/estudiantes-y-activistas-suplican-salvar-los-servicios-en-el-plan-presupuestario-del-alcalde/2458469/

Clip of Tanya on NBC 7 San Diego: https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/impassioned-students-activists-plead-to-save-services-after-mayor-delivers-budget-plan/3829330/#w1w82ld3teiop0csxzxikkerzhqg300xd

NOTE: Several other youth were interviewed by media outlets. Unfortunately not all stories are archived by the media. Still, it was a great learning experience for them!