I had the honor of photographing three students from East High School in Rochester, NY. They are leaders in the Lighthouse Organization, as Mrs. Delehanty, who oversees the club, explains, “We are basically the student council for the school, and our main mission is to help create a positive culture and climate, and to enhance student voice.” Through their leadership, these students are shaping a school community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. What had the greatest impact on me was how they all defined leadership, not as a position, but as standing up, speaking out, and making sure others are seen and heard. Small actions can spark great change, and they're living examples of that.
David Vellon is a sophomore with a hands-on approach to leadership. David is just as happy planning a school dance as he is planting flowers to brighten the campus. For him, leadership means showing up when it counts: “It’s important to be positive about your school… sometimes you need to step up if the leader is unable to.”
Jacayla Stewart is a junior who loves bringing people together, whether it’s decorating for the Winter Solstice dance or supporting community resources at school. “Your voice matters… if you put your voice out there, you will be heard,” she says, reminding us that being heard is the first step toward creating the change you want to see.
Xavier Piner is a senior and first-year Lighthouse member who jumped right in by helping organize care packages for students in need. “If you want to make a change, you’ve got to speak up for it,” he says, believing that real change starts when someone decides to voice their ideas and take action.