Layla enters the MLK Scholar Program with a deep appreciation for community service and a growing commitment to social justice. Reflecting on her past experiences, she recognizes how service has shaped her understanding of community needs and strengthened her desire to create meaningful change.
One of Layla’s most impactful experiences was working in a community garden dedicated to providing free fruits and vegetables to local residents. Through her volunteer efforts, she joined a network of farms and gardens across all five boroughs of New York City focused on addressing food insecurity and exploring the historical trauma connected to the African American experience. This opportunity allowed her to learn about the systemic factors that contribute to inequities while working directly with organizations committed to supporting those in need.
As part of this work, Layla collaborated with food pantries and community fridges, helping provide fresh produce from community gardens and organizing donation efforts that brought community members together in support of one another. Through these experiences, she witnessed the power of collective action and the importance of ensuring that everyone has access to basic necessities.
Layla’s service experiences have cultivated a lasting passion for advocacy and community care. Learning about the historical and ongoing challenges faced by African American communities, including the disproportionate impact of food insecurity, deepened her understanding of the connections between history, equity, and social justice. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to service and have become an important part of her identity as both an activist and an advocate for underserved communities.
As an MLK Scholar, Layla hopes to continue building on these experiences by expanding her knowledge, engaging in meaningful service, and working alongside others to promote equity, justice, and opportunity for all.