The WILD Fellowship was created in order to provide a culturally-responsive, experiential leadership development program for youth ages 16-18. The purpose of the program is for youth to learn more about Asian Pacific American (APA) history, process current events, and ultimately make a positive impact on the Chinatown-International District. In addition to learning how to facilitate and lead groups of peers (and elders), Fellows develop advocacy skills, learn about local APA activism and movements, plan outdoor trips, and work together on a community-based environmental justice project. Upon completion of the program, Fellows are then qualified to move on as WILD interns.
This year, the Fellows chose to help construct a retaining wall in InterIm CDA’s Danny Woo Community Garden to benefit our elders who garden there. They will also be painting an art mural with an environmental justice focus for the Children’s Garden toolshed. Meet our 2017 Fellows:
Ellington Taylor is a senior at Franklin High School and is half black, half Filipino. He likes to play basketball and chess.
“I joined the WILD Fellowship because I want to help my community. I’m always in Chinatown, so why not improve the area while I’m in it?”
Han Xing Ye is a junior at Garfield High School. He is Chinese and from Taisan.
“I joined the WILD Fellowship to learn more about our community and systems. While doing that, I also earn some money. I hope that we will be able to make a positive impact on our community and hope to get a better idea of what we need to change.”
Jenny Liu is a junior at Garfield High School. She enjoys spending time outside in nature.
“I’m a part of the WILD Fellowship because I like learning more about my community and things about the environment. I hope to gain more leadership and outdoor skills through the fellowship.”
Karmen Deng is a sophomore at Garfield High School and is in her second year at WILD.
“I joined the WILD Fellowship to make new friends and learn more about my community. By attending this fellowship, I hope to learn more about Seattle by going on the fun field trips we have!”
Mina Liu is a junior at Garfield High school.
“I’m a part of the WILD Fellowship because I think it will be an awesome experience and can grant me valuable leadership experiences. I care about our environment and want to learn more about our community and contribute back what I can.”
Tinh Lou is a sophomore at Franklin High School.
“I joined the WILD Fellowship because I want to be more involved in the community. I want to help change the air quality of the International District.”
Zhi Min Yan is a senior at Garfield High School.
“I joined the WILD Fellowship because I want to learn more about my community and how I’m able to give back to my community for how much it has given to me. What I hope to accomplish in the fellowship is to be more connected to my community.”