A Space of Our Own: Reflections on personal dreams and vision for South Chicago
In this series we meet three young Black students from South Chicago as they begin their high school journeys. Growing up in South Chicago meant being surrounded by generations of family that provided an outpouring of love and encouragement throughout their lives and especially during their educational journeys. They discuss how relationships with their family, neighbors, and school staff greatly influence their sense of belonging in their neighborhood and school community. The youth also crave a space of their own, where they can be their authentic selves. They note that others in the community need spaces of their own too–playgrounds for children and restaurants for adults to come together and be in community. We hope these stories allow community based organizations and educators to learn about the need for dedicated third spaces for community members and the influence strong relationships have on the educational trajectory of a young person.
Ky'Nya
Ky’Nya is a rising 10th grader at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. College Prep (King College Prep). She was born and raised in South Chicago, surrounded by her family. “I grew up in a very supportive environment. A lot of cousins, a lot of kids around. My childhood was pretty fun. I used to always visit my grandma's house just with everybody, surrounded by all family members. Just very loving and supportive.” Her family instilled a confidence in her that nothing can stop her from accomplishing her dreams. Her aim is to go to college and become a travel nurse with a specialization in pediatrics.
Anyla is a student at Gary Comer College Prep (Comer College Prep). She was born and raised in South Chicago, with her extended family by her side. Anyla's dreams for South Chicago are to open more businesses to help residents build community with one another and invest in more programs that center youth interests, including career and employment opportunities.
“I used to live in a complex, the buildings and all my family was out there, all my friends, so I was able to always be around people that loved me and people that I loved.” Anaya said of South Chicago, a community she was born and raised in. Anaya is a bubbly 10th grader, attending South Shore International College Preparatory High School. She loves her neighborhood and has a broad vision for it that includes more businesses, spaces for youth, and overall increasing community safety.
