#NYAB: Where are they now? - Ebony N. Archie

To promote our 2016-2017 National Youth Advisory Board applications we are currently accepting, we wanted to tell you what our past members are up to now! This week, we hear from Ebony Archie who served on our second and third National Youth Advisory Boards, and now works for the Girl Scouts.

Update us! What has happened to you since you last served on the NYAB?

After serving on NYAB in high school, I attended Rhodes College in Memphis, TN with a Bonner service scholarship. While there I majored in Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, had a change of heart my Senior Year and graduated as a History major with an Africana Studies minor. I've always had a love for fashion, so I launched a fashion and lifestyle blog called Savvy Sunflower, which has been quite the adventure!

What are you doing now?

Ironically, after graduating, I served as a fellow with an organization called the Church Health Center, which provides medical services to the uninsured in Memphis. Now I work as a Recruitment Specialist for Girl Scouts Heart of the South Council, which I'm really excited about. I still curate my blog and I have taken up freelance photography.

How would you say serving on the NYAB influenced your life?

I'm always the most touched by those I'm surrounded by, so I must say I will never forget my fellow board members. The passion they have for servant leadership, ending hunger in their communities, and for social justice definitely fueled my passion for those same things. The entire board, staff, and organization served as a template for the types of communities I want to be immersed in throughout life. It's just amazing to collaborate and innovate with people who are striving to intersect their passions, work, and love for humanity. That's rare.

Anything you would like to tell future NYAB members?

I can't stress enough the importance of community amongst NYAB members. Utilize and learn from each other while gaining inspiration and zeal from all the awesome people you will meet during trainings and along your journey to Souper Bowl Sunday. Even if you don't remain involved with Souper Bowl of Caring after high school or college (I hope you do!), I promise it will be an experience you won't forget.

Final thoughts?

Stay awesome and never give up on the fight for justice in your communities. Also as you begin to plan for Souper Bowl Sunday, create a team who will serve as your mini NYAB. It saves a lot of trouble and stress, trust me!

Ebony, we were so lucky to have you on our team for two years! We look forward to hearing all about what else you are able to accomplish. Thanks for continuing to address the needs of our communities.

Want to join the team?

Apply to serve on our 2016-2017 National Youth Advisory Board. Like Ebony said, never give up on the fight for justice in your community. Join our team where you can address it head on! The due date has been extended, and applications must be postmarked by Friday, July 29, 2016.