FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 11, 2024
Contact: Emma Bittner
(972) 510-3395 | Emma.Bittner@younginvincibles.org
Policy Shark Tank Continues to Drive Change Influenced by Young Adults
(Chicago, IL) – On Friday, Young Invincibles’ Midwest office held its ninth Policy Shark Tank where members of the Fall 2024 Young Advocates cohort pitched innovative policy proposals on pressing issues to a panel of judges consisting of Channing Lenert, Program Officer at Polk Bros. Foundation, Margarita Arango, a YI alumna and Urban Public Policy Fellow with the Institute for Policy and Civic Engagement, and Bernie Williams, Finance Director for Democrats for the Illinois House and a Board Member of Chicago Votes.
After working on their thoughtful proposals throughout the semester, advocates pitched policy recommendations around food insecurity, benefits navigators, work-life balance and empowerment, and workforce development.
The winning pitch this year came from Kayla Pilgrim, who proposed a workforce development and training program to reduce unemployment by 40 percent in target neighborhoods, create sustainable pathways in high-demand industries, and address critical workforce shortages in healthcare and education.
In response, Troy Alim, Midwest Engagement Manager at Young Invincibles said:
“Young adults are essential to change and vital to our future. Our ninth Policy Shark Tank continued to exemplify the passion, innovation, and commitment young people bring to making a difference. From decreasing food insecurity, to ensuring workers are empowered to have a healthy work life balance, the Young Advocates demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges we face and a determination to create a better tomorrow. Their voices are not just inspiring—they are pivotal in addressing the most pressing issues of our time.”
In response, Kayla Pilgrim, Young Advocate and Winner of Policy Shark Tank said:
“This policy is important because it addresses unemployment in underserved neighborhoods while also tackling workforce shortages in healthcare and education. It focuses on creating opportunities for people who often do not have access to the resources they need to succeed. By connecting workers to in-demand industries, it offers a real solution to problems affecting both individuals and entire communities.
Winning Policy Shark Tank is such a meaningful accomplishment because it shows that young people can have a voice in shaping solutions for real-world problems. As a college student, I often hear that we’re the leaders of tomorrow, but this opportunity proves that we can lead today. It’s empowering to see my ideas resonate with people who are leaders in these spaces. This recognition validates not just my work but the importance of giving young people a seat at the table. It’s also a reminder that even as individuals, we can contribute to tackling big issues like unemployment and workforce inequity. This experience has fueled my confidence and passion for creating change through policy.”
###
Young Invincibles (YI) is a national advocacy and policy nonprofit organization focused on amplifying the voice of young people in the political process at the local, state, and federal levels. YI focuses on issues impacting young adults ages 18 to 34 in higher education, health care, economic security, and civic engagement. Our offices include Washington, D.C., California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, and Texas. For more information, please contact Emma Bittner at (972) 510-3395 or emma.bittner@younginvincibles.org