February is Youth Leadership Month, and we’re thrilled to feature an outstanding All-Star who has discovered her passion through community service and advocacy. Meet Aurie-Anne, a ninth-grade student whose achievements at ASAS South Florida have earned her a prestigious role as one of only ten Youth Ambassadors for the Afterschool Alliance!

Leadership responsibilities are nothing new to Aurie-Anne, who is actively involved in her school’s Student Government Association, and she recently completed her term as president of ASAS South Florida’s Youth Advisory Board (YAB).

Many All-Stars are drawn to programs that focus on science and math. Others find inspiration and creative outlets in sports, art, cooking, or dance. For Aurie-Anne, All-Stars has given her a platform to develop leadership skills, expand her knowledge, and make the world a better place through advocacy and action.

As an Afterschool Alliance Youth Ambassador, Aurie-Anne will help to lead the organization’s annual Youth Voice Week and will join adult advocates in Washington, D.C., to speak with members of Congress about the importance of after-school programs.

“We are so grateful that Aurie-Anne is serving in the 2024 cohort of Youth Afterschool Ambassadors,” said Jodi Grant, Executive Director of the Afterschool Alliance. “She has a powerful perspective to share with community leaders, advocates, educators, and lawmakers about how afterschool programs have helped unlock her potential. We know she will do fantastic work promoting the benefits of afterschool for all.”

In her role as Youth Advisory Board President, Aurie-Anne has traveled to Tallahassee to advocate for after-school program funding. She also participates in All-Star Leadership University (ASLU), an annual youth retreat that unites All-Star students and mentors from across the U.S. to develop their strengths as leaders and build lasting friendships.

Aurie-Anne has been receiving significant press coverage for her leadership accomplishments, and we look forward to checking in with her over the coming months. We extend our best wishes to Aurie-Anne and every All-Star for a successful and fulfilling year ahead!

Watch Aurie-Anne share more about her All-Star experiences HERE.