A Voice For Vermont Youth

A King Street Center story is now part of Vermont’s story. We are overjoyed to share that longtime youth Maryan has been appointed to represent Chittenden County on the Vermont State Youth Council. She is the newest King Street youth to be selected for this statewide leadership role.

The Vermont State Youth Council was established in 2022, codifying the notion that youth in Vermont, by right, should be involved in the decision-making processes that affect them. The Council, comprised of youth selected through an extensive application process, convenes monthly to offer recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly on policies impacting youth in the state. Council members are appointed to three-year terms and serve on a committee that addresses specific issues facing Vermont youth, such as Equity & Anti Racism and Climate Change.

As a Council member, Maryan will help shape policies that affect young people across Vermont, offering direct recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly. It’s a responsibility she is uniquely prepared for, guided by her experiences in similar spaces, such as the Youth Participatory Action & Research Group (YPAR) and the Racial Justice Academy.

Maryan has been a part of the King Street family since she was five years old, and her growth into a thoughtful, grounded, purpose-driven leader has been nothing short of extraordinary. As staff who have watched her grow attest, her leadership style is powerful and purposeful.

"Maryan Awayle is one of the most incredible young people I have ever met," said Dylan, K-5 Director. "It has been an honor to watch her grow into the thoughtful, driven, and dynamic individual she is today."

Kachi, former Middle School Program Manager who worked on the council application with Maryan added, “Maryan may not be the loudest student in the room, but she shows up by leading by example. She makes her mark known through her work, not her words.”

We are immensely proud of the stellar individual Maryan has become and are excited to see her leverage her skills to advocate for her community.

Check out our exclusive interview with Maryan below!