Platte County High School juniors, Kylie Kinzey and Rayan Abdikarim were recently chosen for the 2025 Northland Regional Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Program.
Through the program, students are guided with the goal of gaining valuable leadership skills that they will hone in their remaining high school years and beyond. Students acquire knowledge and insight into business, legal, educational, political, and healthcare elements of the community.
Kylie was a little skeptical when she found out she was eligible to apply for the program because she didn’t know much about it, so she asked her mom about it and found out she had gone through a similar program after graduating from college.
“After she explained what exactly the program entails, I got excited,” Kylie said. “Expanding my leadership skills is right up my alley.”
When Rayan received the email about the program, she immediately thought that it would be a perfect fit for her, since she is already involved in the program, Youth Diplomats.
“I also enjoy the leadership roles I hold in various aspects of my life, so the chance to further develop those skills alongside others who share the same passion seemed fantastic,” Rayan said.
She was taken aback when she found out that only two juniors from each school were selected for this opportunity, but Rayan chose to go ahead with her application and she was pretty surprised, but happy when she found out she was accepted.
Kylie was thrilled when she found out she had also been chosen.
“It was a crazy thought for me to be chosen out of all the juniors that applied,” Kylie said. “It’s a great honor to represent my Pirate Pride at this program.”
Gaining insight into legal, business, educational, political and healthcare segments of their community interests them both.
Kylie is curious about how leaders in these areas work with the people around them and overcome tough tribulations. Rayan is excited about the whole experience.
“After just one session, I’ve already gained insight into what it truly means to be a leader, Rayan said. “I’ve learned the importance of approaching problem-solving with a calm and clear mindset. Each moment really feels like a valuable opportunity.”
While it’s hard to choose which areas of the program appeal to her the most, Kylie is drawn toward business and education.
She is involved in Future Business Leaders of America and has taken many business classes, but she has never really seen firsthand how leaders handle situations on a daily basis.
“Then for education, I love kids!” Kylie said. “I’ve volunteered and worked for my church with toddlers over the years, yes they can be a handful, but it’s very rewarding at the end of the day. I do though want to learn the best ways to interact with these kids and how to better themselves.”
Rayan is very interested in healthcare and has always wanted to become a pediatrician because she loves making a difference in people’s lives, especially kids. And she would like to contribute positively to the health and well being of children and their families.
“At the same time, I’ve also gotten really interested in business,” Rayan said. “I think there’s a strong overlap between healthcare and business that could lead to some innovative ideas to improve patient care. Mixing these two interests feels like a great way to make a positive impact while exploring new opportunities.”
While college studies and careers are still a few years away, Kylie has been looking into counseling/psychology either in ministry or in general. “I think about this mostly because I’ve always been told I’m a great listener and always give the best advice under stress,” Kylie said.
Her favorite class at PCHS is honors psychology, and for Kylie, it’s interesting to imagine what others are thinking and feeling.
She’s also involved in many clubs, such as Stuco, FCA, FBLA, Cross Country, Soccer, Pirate Mentors, Special Olympics Junior Coach, and she just joined Turning Point USA.
Rayan is intrigued by the design of the U.S. Government, and Government is her favorite high school class.
“It’s also a way to learn about politics which I believe is very important,” Rayan said.
She is actively involved in the Speech and Debate team, the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, the FBLA, and Diversity Club.
Rayan and Kylie both believe the Youth Leadership Program is a great way for students to gain more information about the major components of the community and how they each contribute to how well the community works for all its residents.
“I believe it’s a great way for students to learn more about the key components of the community,” Rayan said. “During the first session, we participated in various team-building activities that encouraged us to engage with one another. Communication is essential in this process just like it is in communities.”
Kylie was convinced at the program’s first meeting that it truly helps with building firm leadership skills and makes participants get out of their comfort zones for their betterment.
When asked if the leadership skills that she will gain through this program will help her throughout high school, college, her future career and life in general, Kylie said, “Oh absolutely, 100%. Granted, I’ve gained leadership skills over the years but at the Youth Leadership Program you get to see all the different types of leadership. Not all leaders are like the stereotypical, overly outgoing, bossy kind. Understanding that leaders can help lead people in multitudes of ways, specific towards them personally, can help a person grow themselves as a leader.”
Rayan has found the program very engaging. “So far I already believe I learned a lot in leadership and since it’s such an important life skill, this program will help me throughout high school, college, my career, and life generally,” Rayan said.
The families of both the girls are very proud they have chosen to commit themselves to the Youth Leadership Program.
“When I got the news I immediately texted my mom, then she later told my dad, who was beyond proud,” Kylie said. “When I got home I got a bouquet from my dad for my hard work and determination; not every day you get accepted into programs like this.”
Rayan’s mother and the rest of her family were just as thrilled as she was when they found out she had been chosen for the program.
Beginning the program was similar in many ways for Rayan and Kylie. Both were very much looking forward to meeting new people.
“I’m a very social person.” Kylie said. “Meeting new people who are genuine and stand out from the crowd made my day. Everyone who got chosen had a shining personality. It was such a fun day.”
“I’m pleased to say it has exceeded my expectations,” Rayan said. “The experience has been enjoyable and fulfilling.”
Kylie believes that a person who is part of a program like this one needs to strive to show their best selves every day.
“Like me, I’m representing myself, my school, my community, and my family,” Kylie said. “I also believe that people in this program should go out of their way to be the best leader they can be. For example, go ask someone about their day, and hear what other people have to say.”
For Rayan, the opportunities and education the program is providing her are important in many ways.
“My responsibilities are being an active member, meaning an active leader in the best ways I can be,” Rayan said.