001 - Interrogating Your Identity with John Paul Mejia
Accelerate Access Episode 001: Interrogating Your Identity with John Paul Mejia, 2019 Nyah Project Fellow
Welcome to the first episode of Accelerate Access: The Podcast! We share stories of how access to opportunity changes lives. Hosted by Nyah Project founder, Leigh-Ann Buchanan, the podcast provides an inside look into the transformational journeys of our Nyah Fellows as they navigate college, careers, and personal growth as young leaders in the community.
This week’s guest is John Paul “JP” Mejia, 2019 Nyah Fellow and student at American University. JP sits down with Leigh-Ann to discuss his journey growing up with humble beginnings in Miami to becoming a national leader in climate justice. Also, find out what his superpowers are and the most impactful moments he had in Bali + Ghana with Nyah Project.
“There is a difference between access and power, but they often go hand in hand.” - JP Mejia
They discuss:
Where JP is located + what he’s up to these days
Something JP spends too much time doing
What moves him to tears or gives him goosebumps
The nicest thing someone has done for JP
Growing up in Miami and experiences that challenges/shaped his childhood
Reconciling conflicting pressure points growing up as a first-generation American
JP’s leadership journey and purpose in this world
JP being a national spokesperson for the Sunrise Movement and climate justice
His Nyah Project experiences as a 2019 Nyah Fellow and 2021 Peer Facilitator
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeart Radio | Amazon Music
