CYCP Cohort 3 Reflections & Appreciations by Polina Goncharova

Student example from CYCP Cohort 2 💚

pgoncharova1 — 2026-01-15 20:35:53 UTC

CYCP helped me navigate the complexities of school board advocacy and policy development, with some key activities being the field research activity, the school board policy action decision tree, and the board resolution template. It really helped me understand how I, an individual, could make a meaningful impact at the district level. I am incredibly grateful for my mentor and for our workshop facilitators; I could have never accomplished what I did without you!

Julie Ira, Mentor

2026-01-16 04:29:50 UTC

I continue to be amazed by all the motivated and passionate students in CYCP! It's so inspiring to hear how in your advocacy campaigns you find creative solutions to overcome obstacles and work to better your communities. Congrats to all in Cohort 3!

Sarah Ranney, Staff

2026-01-16 04:29:56 UTC

I'm so filled with appreciation and amazement at the work these youth have put into their policy work over the last 6 months, and the perseverance you've all shown. Thank you for the time and energy you put into it, and I am so excited to see where your advocacy takes our schools and futures

jamie blatter, mentor (humboldt county)

2026-01-16 04:30:20 UTC

Something I love to do is imagine the cumulative impacts of all of the different campaigns that students have led throughout the state. Even if just half of the 60 students have their board policies adopted, that means 30 new climate board policies in California. That has a major impact! And then thinking about the fact that this is the third cohort means that maybe over 90 policies have been passed in 3 years. Eventually, almost every highschool student in California will be positively impacted by the work of the students in this program. It is amazing to be a part of this change-making and gives me hope. We can do so much together!

Andra - STAFF

2026-01-16 04:30:31 UTC

AMAZING!!!!! Thank you Cohort 3 for your joyful persistence through the CYCP program and through bringing change to your local community. I am incredibly impressed by the commitment and follow through of this cohort, and so inspired by the stories of personal and community transformation.

Talia Gordon (Student Leader)

2026-01-16 04:30:46 UTC

CYCP helped me learn what different types of board policies can look like, and which ones fit best for my situation. I learned how to reach out to people and keep figuring out ways to present, even if I faced challenges along the way. I am grateful to everyone who helped me along the way, especially my school district's sustainability director and the CYCP team!

Student Andrew Jang

2026-01-16 04:30:56 UTC

CYCP helped me learn the intricacies of environment work, especially on the policy end. I've never really engaged with policy drafting and policy work in my life, and getting this opportunity to have a feel of what it's like in that field was pretty awesome. Being able to work with my amazing mentor, Mrs. Genie Lewis, was a special opportunity for me too. She helped me and her other students very thoroughly with our resolutions and also established group meetings where we worked with each other to give each other ideas and thoughts about our projects. And of course, I am super thankful to the CYCP staff for making such a great program.

Chanan Poon (student leader)

2026-01-16 04:31:00 UTC

CYCP taught me what it means to use my voice and make an impact. I no longer fear public speaking or fear failure. I learned that without failure there is no success so I should keep voicing out my opinion and keep working toward sustainability.

Parishay Azer (Student)

2026-01-16 04:31:02 UTC

Looking back, I feel really proud and thankful for this experience. When I first joined, I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I’ve learned so much along the way, about climate policy, advocacy, and myself. This program showed me what it actually looks like to turn ideas into action and to work with others who care just as deeply. I’ll remember the late discussions, the moments where things felt challenging, and the support that always showed up anyway. CYCP gave me confidence to speak up, to lead in different ways, and to trust that youth voices belong in these spaces. Most of all, it reminded me that climate action is about people and community. This program really mattered to me, and I’m grateful for everyone who made it what it was.

India Welch (Student)

2026-01-16 04:31:03 UTC

I feel very accomplished and appreciative of all of the time that everyone has put in into making this project a success. I am very happy for the collaborative spirit, and thankful for getting to work with Kai on reducing paper at our school! I will definitely remember overcoming struggles and feeling stagnant in the start of this program and having the outcome come fully to fruition.

Camille Soliva, Guest, Ten Strands

2026-01-16 04:31:04 UTC

I was in Group 8, and I was truly in awe the entire time listening to the students’ projects. Each student shared experiences filled with real trials and challenges, yet what stood out most was their resilience and determination to push forward. Their stories were powerful, inspiring, and a reminder of the strength and creativity they bring to their work. These students are going to make a huge difference in our communities (WELL THEY ALREADY ARE). Huge congratulations to each of them!!!

Amber Hu (guest, Stuart Foundation)

2026-01-16 04:31:04 UTC

So inspiring to hear from these amazing student leaders. Your passion for the work and the deep reflections on what it means for your communities and yourselves was amazing to see. Thank you!

Student Dixon Wu (Alameda)

2026-01-16 04:31:07 UTC

CYCP helped me learn the value of progress, collaboration, understanding, and networking. The idea that to make change, you must make progress really stuck with me. My mentors and counselors made it very known that if I wanted to make a change, I needed to do it before I lost everyone's attention. The collaborative activities I did with peers and adults was very valuable in that I had other people to experience what I was going through. It probably warmed the hearts of the adults who supervised me to see so many of the younger generation trying to make a difference. Understanding one another is what kept us together through hardship in order to stay for the successes. Finally, networking, to all the people I have met, I am forever grateful to have been a small chapter of your lives! I am always open to meeting new people, whether or not we can benefit one another. I wish you all the best in university or maybe just your next year of high school! (Or your jobs)

Mahi Mekala - Student

2026-01-16 04:31:10 UTC

As the program comes to an end, I feel really grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in this program which allowed me to meet so many amazing people who inspire me too continue working hard! I have learned so much about school policy-making, coalition-building, and how to have a perseverant mindset. Thank you to all the people who made this program possible and for the mentors, this program is truly so impactful and inspiring!

Kai Krenicki- Student

2026-01-16 04:31:18 UTC

I truly loved the knowledge CYCP provided me on the topic of networking. Making change is all in who you know and the people who can support you. To create a successful campaign you have to push people for their support. Im so glad this opportunity could teach me so much on that subject.

Aarin Kalghatgi-Student

2026-01-16 04:31:24 UTC

CYCP gave me a platform to materialize my thoughts and passion for the envirnment. It gave me a purpose and I was able to make a nice project out of it, one which actually made a difference. Thanks!

Erin Tator, Mentor

2026-01-16 04:31:34 UTC

I'm so happy to have spent the past months with the group of powerful youth leaders. It has been an area of sunshine and hope in the last half of 2025. I can't wait to see what they take on next!

Anna Bronk (student)

2026-01-16 04:31:37 UTC

CYCP helped me create tangible goals to make a meaningful difference at my school and in my community. The templates and activities throughout the program aided in my success and helped me feel more confident when proposing my plan. I cannot thank my mentor, fellow CYCP cohort 3 members, and coalition enough for their continued support to make my project possible!

Taarika Sethee - Student

2026-01-16 04:31:43 UTC

As I reflect on the accomplishments I have been able to make through this program, I feel an immense sense of gratitude to access to all the resources and support provided, and feel new determination and certainty that my dreams can become a reality; and yes, it is possible for one person to make a difference in their community, just as one water drop creates a ripple effect. I have learned how to build a coalition, how to encourage the people around me, how to see myself as a leader, and most importantly, how to view the progress made relative to the previous status quo. I will remember the amazing people I have had the opportunity to meet through this program, and also all the advice I got from my peers and mentor. This program gave me a chance to see myself in a new lens as a leader and inspire change in my school with the help of the people around me.

Oscar Ruiz- Student

122394_1 — 2026-01-16 04:31:54 UTC

CYCP was an amazing opportunity to learn more about the policy process. I was able to know so much about how schools function through policy, and I was also able to understand the true depth of it. This is such a complex topic, and with the environmental aspect involved, I wouldn't have been able to navigate it without the support of everyone in this program. I would like to thank everyone who made this possible, especially my mentor, my coalition, and everyone else who supported me along the way. Thank you!!

Denise Cottrell - Mentor

2026-01-16 04:31:57 UTC

This is my third year as a mentor for CYCP. It is exciting to work with and learn from such motivated high schoolers. This program provides me with hope for making positive changes for solving climate change.

Katie Worster, student

2026-01-16 04:31:58 UTC

CYCP taught me how to step outside of my comfort zone, because even though there were no sustainability policies or even avenues to pass policies, the examples they provided reminded me that anything was possible. I've learned that even though there will always be barriers, there will also always be new strategies or alternate solutions to try. I'll always remember how empowered this program made me feel, and I'm so grateful for all of the CYCP students, mentors, and staff for making it possible for me to begin passing my school's first sustainability policy!

Claire Svehla-Student

2026-01-16 04:31:59 UTC

CYCP has given me the tools and knowledge to pursue an issue I care very deeply about. This program has given me the guidance I needed to learn what it means to be a leader and changemaker. I appreciate all of the staff for hosting these events and taking the time to work with us all!

Maya Nawachi & Student

2026-01-16 04:32:04 UTC

CYCP provided me an opportunity to be able to have a hands on experience in being able to create my own coalition. It was eye-opening to see how I as an individual have the power to make an impact iwthin my community. I am grateful for my coalition and mentor who both helped me make my experience more memorable and guided me along the process.

Zhen Hui Huang -Student Climate Leader

2026-01-16 04:32:07 UTC

I feel so grateful that I have Polina and Myra's help as I completed CYCP. I learned to communicate and to keep a clear mind so that I know meetings are coming up and what I said to who. I will remember the coffee chats I had with some of the students and how amazing they are in what they have done and will accomplish! This program has been very supportive in helping me in the process of passing policy and I'm so grateful for the mentors and staff for facilitating this program. I just wish there is a communication channel so that I can connect more easily with other students and mentors and staff to learn from them.

Isabelle Ling - student

2026-01-16 04:32:08 UTC

CYCP helped me explore more about environment and policy in a very tight-knit community. I loved all of the workshop and retreats. I truly learned so much through the program, and I really loved hearing everyone's experience tonight. It has been so fulfilling to work on a project that will affect tangible change, and I hope we keep in touch after!

Suhani Nirwal (Student)

2026-01-16 04:32:13 UTC

I was quite intimidated with approaching the entire Board Policy process, but the CYCP program provided me with the resources, support, and mentorship to make the entire process a lot more tangible. I am very grateful to have had such an incredible opportunity to generate positive change within my academic community, and I wanted to say thank you to everyone (+ my mentor Ann :)) in CYCP for making this experience so memorable!

Jocelyn Soderfelt - Student

2026-01-16 04:32:15 UTC

CYCP has helped me grow not only as an advocate, but as a person. I feel like I have developed many skills that I will continue to carry with me throughout my life. I have learned many things about navigating school boards and writing policy actions. Through all of the meetings, I have gained a deeper understanding of what it means to be an advocate and to help town climate change mitigation efforts. I just wanted to thank everyone for helping me with my own project and broadening my perspective.

Student - Aisha Afaf

2026-01-16 04:32:18 UTC

I learned a lot through this program, especially to be able to adapt in tough situations. It was an amazing experience to meet other people, learn from them, and share my experiences too!

Polina Goncharova, Staff

pgoncharova1 — 2026-01-16 04:32:28 UTC

I am so proud of all of the incredible work that every single one of our CYCP leaders have done this cohort. You have taken on challenges in stride and you have continued to show up even when things felt tough and you might have been discouraged. The perseverance you have all practiced is a muscle you will continue to grow but I know that because of your hard work now, you will continue to shine anywhere your advocacy and educational journey will take you. Thank you for sticking with it!!! The CYCP team is here for you if you need anything!!! We can't wait to see where life takes you! ALSO! A HUMUNGOUS THANK YOU! to our wonderful mentors this year. YOU GUYS ARE INCREDIBLE! We couldn't do this work without you.

Stephanie Seidmon (staff)

stephanieseidmon — 2026-01-16 04:32:31 UTC

I am so moved by the presentations and reflections shared in Room 6. One of the overarching themes: roadblocks! Roadblocks, challenges, obstacles, pivots, twists and turns were part of everyone's journey, and we agreed that that's a feature, not a bug, of organizing, advocating, and making change happen. Students navigated these roadblocks and challenges with grace, poise, confidence, assuredness, and joyful persistence! These qualities will serve our students for the rest of their lives, and to learn to expect challenge and obstacles and be able to navigate them with grace is one of life's greatest challenges / opportunities. Congratulations to all of our students!

Genevieve Dechary (student)

2026-01-16 04:32:35 UTC

I am feeling very proud of everything we have all accomplished! It makes me so happy to see how many like-minded students there are and fuels me to keep fighting for sustainable policies. I have learned how to be an effective communicator, ask for support when I need it, do in-depth research, and write a Board Policy! I will remember how much work I've put into this process and learning from the inspiring speakers that we've heard from during the monthly meetings. This program has meant hope to me and inspired me to be an environmental leader even when it's difficult.

Coral Stone (student)

2026-01-16 04:32:39 UTC

CYCP has taught me a lot about how policy works, and how it can be used to make an impact. What has been most memorable to me is the amount of people who are willing to help, and the amount of students who care about climate change. I think climate change can often make you feel helpless, but being in this program has made me feel more hopeful about the future, knowing there are so many people working to address climate change!

Brandon Kim (student)

2026-01-16 04:32:41 UTC

CYCP was able to give me the guidance and information I needed to be able to put my thoughts into action. It motivated me to take a more proactive approach in my projects, helped me turn ideas into concrete steps, and eventually be able to put my plans in motion. I feel very proud of what I have been able to accomplish through the CYCP program.

Chloe Dahl - Student

2026-01-16 04:32:43 UTC

CYCP was such a holistic program- it really equipped me with the basic skills and frameworks I needed to be successful. From how school policy works to environmental justice, I kept all these lessons with me as I moved through the campaign. I appreciated that they also left room for students to take initiative and create the impact they wanted to see. I will always remember the fun breakout discussions I had that made me reflect on my campaigns and dig deeper to make an even greater impact. I hope that as I continue forward in life I will keep all the lessons I've learned from this program with me wherever I go!

Karen Cowe - Guest/Ten Strands

2026-01-16 04:32:47 UTC

Thank you so much, CYCP Cohort 3 students, for your amazing projects. I was privileged to hear four students speak, and each was thoughtful, insightful, and genuinely engaging.

A heartfelt thank you as well to all of the mentors who so generously volunteer their time, and to our partners—the Sierra Club and UndauntedK12—for making this work possible.

Finally, a special thank you to my incredible team at Ten Strands for your complete dedication to this project and for supporting each cohort with such care and commitment, helping them remain joyfully persistent as they reach toward their goals.

And really, finally, a big thank you to our funders! <3

Alexia Prieto Student

2026-01-16 04:32:50 UTC

I am feeling excited to see the fruits of my labor get put into fruition by getting the administrative regulation passed at my campus very soon. I have learned to build a coalition, because it is very important to have a group of people aid you and help you complete your work. I also will remember how rewarding it is to work towards a goal as big as this one. I really love this program because it gave me reassurance that this type of work is what I want to pursue in college and I really am grateful for this. The community of change makers I have met is also very heartening to see and I really want to look too work deeply with people too change the minds of society who still don't believe climate literacy and intervention must be taken seriously.

Konnor Wong, Student

2026-01-16 04:32:51 UTC

CYCP helped me understand how student advocacy can lead to real change within my school district. Through the field research activity, the board resolution template, and preparing my public comment, I learned how school board policy works and how students can engage in that process. The program helped me see that even as a student, I can make a meaningful impact by using research, clear messaging, and persistence. CYCP also gave me the confidence to speak in front of the school board and advocate for improved recycling access on campus. I am grateful for my mentor and the workshop facilitators who supported me throughout the program and helped guide my campaign from an idea into real action.

Helene_Mentor

2026-01-16 04:32:53 UTC

This year's cohort displayed many creative approaches to incorporating and presenting climate change policy to their school districts. From biting off tinier bits of impactful action to trying to following-through on previous resolutions, this cohort really is making the kind of progress we need. Kudos to all for their joyful persistence!

Jessie Manson - Student

2026-01-16 04:32:53 UTC

CYCP has really changed how I view environmental work. I started with a much more technical background and didn't feel comfortable with policy work, but I think the structure and assistance offered through the program helped me utilize my skills in the most effective ways. All my peers have been super inspiring; I have loved seeing so much passion about the climate and meeting people with similar interests. I am also thankful for my mentor for really reinforcing my conviction that my project was important and to stay persistent even through challenges.

Gloria - mentor

2026-01-16 04:32:57 UTC

The students never cease to amaze me in their work. It gives me hope for the future. Congrats on your amazing journey!

Abby Ouimet - Guest (Ten Strands)

2026-01-16 04:33:15 UTC

Very inspiring to hear all of the presentations. I feel hopeful knowing our present and future is in such great hands.

Karthik Meyyappan - Student

2026-01-16 04:33:16 UTC

CYCP helped me in more ways than I can count. I learned that there were other students in my state who cared about sustainability and the world we live in, which contrasted with my previous beliefs. Learning with peers, with the help of amazing mentors, made this experience a great, hands-on learning experience for me. Throughout my CYCP journey, I not only got to work on passing a resolution but also had the opportunity to publish an Op-Ed in collaboration with Sunstone Strategies. All in all, this is a journey I will not forget, in which I learned skills that will stick with me for a while. The best part is that I got to do this all as a freshman, meaning I have 3 years left to positively impact my community and help make positive change.

Hadley Mello - Student

2026-01-16 04:33:18 UTC

Throughout CYCP, I have developed a stronger understanding of how to advocate my opinion effectively by building relationships, expanding my sphere of influence, and staying persistent even when challenges arise. As I reflect on my accomplishments, I am proud to have gained a better understanding of myself and who I am as a leader. I am also proud of all the work I accomplished and the time and effort I have put in order to accomplish my goals. This program means a lot to me as it has helped to further fuel my passion of undoing climate change as well as continue to advocate my voice and opinions.

Aahaan Jain _ Student

2026-01-16 04:33:25 UTC

CYCP was a great opportunity for me to get involved with local advocacy at the school board level and really put my foot out there when it came to overall advocacy. Through this program, I was able to connect with so many nonprofits, some awesome students and nonprofit leaders, and elected officials. What started off as a daunting task eventually became a place where I could make a tangible impact in my community by passing a climate action resolution. PS Shoutout to Ann Brown, the best mentor anyone could ask for :))

Raini Chugh - Student

2026-01-16 04:33:30 UTC

This program has been extremely meaningful for me in learning skills to become a more effective leader and changemaker. Also just having this community and knowing that there are other very passionate climate activists who feel the same way I do about how we need to take action is so helpful and makes it impossible to feel isolated. Before this program, I felt like I was mostly figuring activism and leadership out as I went, but having this network of mentors and educational materials has been very helpful. Thank you so much to Polina, Andra, Sarah, and Stephanie for their awesome energy and for making every meeting and activity such an enjoyable and valuable experience!

Sandy Emerson, Mentor

2026-01-16 04:33:47 UTC

It was a privilege to work with this cohort of bright, creative, talented students!

Evelyn Whatley (Student)

2026-01-16 04:33:48 UTC

CYCP Cohort 3 Reflections & Appreciations

I would like to thank my mentor, Gloria Valdez, as well as my supporters on the school board and my mother for helping me to direct my focus for my campaign. As I reflect on my accomplishments, I am proud of the changes I have been able to make, and hopeful for the changes still yet to come as my district begins to prioritize the climate crisis and student involvement. During my time in CYCP, I have learned that the process of passing policy is not simple or fast - it takes many people putting in effort to create real change. This will stick with me as a reminder to not give up, no matter what setbacks I face, as each setback is an opportunity to reframe by goals and reflect on what success I have already accomplished. Thank you to all of my fellow climate leaders for a great learning experience and to the coordinators of CYCP for making all of this possible!

Eric Havel, Mentor

ehavel — 2026-01-16 04:33:58 UTC

I've really appreciated getting to know and work with Coral, Isabelle and Raya. Their dedication, maturity and perseverance are truly inspiring. I'm looking forward to attending your upcoming presentations. Great work!

Sydney Shaw (student)

2026-01-16 04:34:01 UTC

CYCP has taught me so much about policy action and how I can make a difference as a student. I’ve achieved more than I ever thought I could, and I wouldn’t have been able to do any of it without the support of my mentor and peers. The skills I’ve gained through this program will benefit me for the rest of my life. I’m incredibly grateful to have had this opportunity!

Kai Parr (Student) 🦈

2026-01-16 04:34:20 UTC

CYCP was a very thorough and well put together internship, and I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in it. Thank you to all the staff who collaborated and contributed to the program in order to make it the best it can be! I love that we can continue our work and advocacy even as we graduate from the program. There’s so many wonderful aspects and resources available to us as we work through the program, many of which are applicable outside of CYCP too! A shoutout to my mentor Ms. Genie- thank you so much for all of your help and support! Congrats everyone 🫶

Olivia Kong - Student Leader

2026-01-16 04:34:39 UTC

Over the course of this program, I've learned so much about myself and climate policy. I've developed my skills in being more adaptable and knowing how to approach challenges. I wouldn't have been able to have the success in my projects without developing this skill. I also realized how important interdisciplinary work is in climate policy.

Katinka Lennemann - Mentor

2026-01-16 04:35:05 UTC

Someone said earlier that this program really teaches how to participate in democracy-- that really struck home. To see the students in this program learn how to make change within all the politics and peculiarities of their school district was incredible. To understand how you can be an agent for change is no small thing! I'm so proud to be a part of this program, and shoutout to my mentees Brandon and Rhiya, who were so driven and thoughtful throughout the process. Thank you to the students for their effort, the mentors for their insights, and the staff for their unending organization and support.

Sophia Tada (student)

2026-01-16 04:35:10 UTC

I learned how to be flexible within the obstacles of my campaign within CYCP. I've learned how to keep a positive mindset in the midst of setbacks and to use those setbacks as catalysts for growth. I have been endlessly in awe of all the incredible, intelligent, and capable fellow students within CYCP, and will continue to remember all the discussions and accomplishments, listening to everyone. This program propelled me to grow, fall down, and get back up again. I'm especially appreciative of my mentor Erin, who was always understanding and patient in terms of the highs and lows of my campaign. She always supported and guided me through every step of the way, kept me encouraged and believing in myself, even in my moments of doubt. I'm very thankful for all that CYCP has provided me, in terms of resources and companionship!

Adelaide Chow (student)

2026-01-16 04:35:47 UTC

I originally joined CYCP because I saw how people in my community were directly affected by climate change and wanted to drive sustainable progress for others. Over the course of the program I gained more than I expected: a support system and the skills to be "an ambassador of climate" beyond this program. I also want to thank Sandy for being a wonderfully kind and supportive mentor throughout the journey. My experience could not have been as successful as it was without you! And thank you to the staff for running such a well-structured and meaningful program.