Hey guys, we’re excited to introduce you to the Fact Not Fiction Real Talk Team! These teenagers and college students hail from all over Mississippi: from itty bitty Itta Bena to the Capital City. Each week, they’ll share their real world wisdom and tips on staying smart and safe with you.
Alexus, 19, is a rising sophomore at Coahoma Community College who lives in Clarksdale, Miss. She has an interest in journalism after receiving her bachelor’s degree and loves to dance.
Zhane, a 19-year-old graduate of JFK Memorial High School in Mound Bayou, who is into all things fashion. She plans to attend college in the fall.
Jamesha is a dental assistant student at Hinds Community College from Greenville, Miss., who anticipates attending dental school upon graduation. She dabbles in cosmetology too!
Keyaira is a 17-year-old who will be a senior at Vicksburg High School on the fall. She’s a member of the colorguard, likes to help people however she can, and is growing to love writing.
Jamie is from Brookhaven, Mississippi, and is a senior at Brookhaven High School. “I work to make sure youth understand they have a right to an accurate and complete sex education.”
Breyanna is from Drew, Mississippi, and is a senior at Ruleville Central High School. “I became an advocate for youth sexual health because so many of my peers have gotten pregnant or have, or have had, a sexually transmitted disease. I feel that as young adults we need more accurate information about our sexual health.”
Sarah is from Brookhaven, Mississippi, and is a senior at Brookhaven High School. “I’m an advocate for comprehensive sex education because I really believe that it’s largely overlooked in the grand scheme of education, even though it is of vital importance. If we improved sex ed, it would have a massive impact on students everywhere. I know I want to be a part of that impact.”
Triuna is from Itta Bena, Mississippi, and is a senior at Greenwood High School. “I am an advocate because no one ever told me what I needed to know to protect myself. Now it’s my turn to help others.”
Joshua is from Terry, Mississippi, and is a senior at Terry High School. “I advocate for comprehensive sex education for
youth like me. I advocate so that all young people can be in control of
their own bodies!”
Arreyah graduated from Gulfport High School this spring. Her involvement
in theater and performing arts helped her find her voice and boldly share it.
She’ll attend Louisiana State University’s Honors College in the fall.
Daryn will be a sophomore at Yazoo City High School in Yazoo City, Miss.,
in the fall. She has interest in becoming an attorney and loves to sing when
she’s happy … or sad … or upset!
Jala will be a junior at Pillow Academy in Greenwood for the 2015-2016 school
year, and she’s still impressed with herself that she passed chemistry the past
school term! This feat has proven to her that she really can do anything.
Kristin is a rising junior at Murrah High School in Jackson, Miss., who
participates in the health professions program at the high school and Upward
Bound.
Shalom has graduated high school and begun her first semester of college
at Coahoma Community College. She lives in Alligator, Miss., and works
extensively with children in her community for academic support and healthy
eating.
Summer will be a sophomore at Yazoo City High
School in Yazoo City, Miss. The 14-year-old enjoys spending time with her
family and friends and plans to attend nursing school after graduating high
school.
Sylvalia will be a senior at Gulfport High School in Gulfport, Miss., in the fall.
The 17-year-old has already received much recognition for her vocal abilities
and intends to sing professionally. She also enjoys a good tennis match.
Justin is from McComb, Mississippi, and is a junior at Jackson State University.
“As young Mississippian I have personally experienced the consequences stemmed from the lack of sex education. Serving as an advocate for comprehensive sex education gives me the opportunity to ensure that more youth have access to sex education that helps them make informed decisions before engaging in sexual activity.”
Sara is a sophomore at the University of Mississippi.
“I advocate for comprehensive sex education because I believe that all children, teens, and young adults, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity, have a right
to age-appropriate and accurate information about their sexual health and safety. Anything less than that deprives young people of the opportunity to make mature, responsible choices based on factual information!”
Courtney is from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and is a senior at the University of Southern Mississippi.
“I’m an advocate for comprehensive sex education because I grew up in a family where sexual health was not discussed, and have seen how damaging it can be for youth to be left to their own devices. I advocate so that youth that do not have access to reliable information can learn how to better protect themselves.”
