When my mom forwarded me an invitation to The Indypendent’s 25th anniversary party, I stepped into an unfamiliar and exciting world. I spoke with established journalists, activists, and elected officials, as well as other young people who were frustrated with the world they were coming up into, and determined to make change.

After leaving the party, my friend Cyrus and I floated to the train on a cloud of new hope. We had met so many passionate and impressive people, and saw the opportunity to share our own ideas with an engaged audience.

In the weeks following the party, I was welcomed aboard The Indypendent with more respect than I was used to receiving from adults as a 17-year-old girl. I was invited to sit in on an editorial meeting — a lively, pertinent discussion  where people supported each other, listened carefully, and asked questions. I also interviewed voters on Election Day 2025 for The Indy’s radio show. I got to interact with my community of Jackson Heights, Queens in a new way, and assert myself as a reporter.

I soon started working on an article about 34th Avenue Open Streets (a pedestrianization project in Jackson Heights). The topic was close to my heart for several reasons: I love learning about community space and transportation, and I spend time on 34th Avenue almost every day. Through one-on-one sessions, The Indy’s Editor-in-Chief John Tarleton helped me build skills in journalistic writing, research, outreach, and interviews. His support enabled me to develop a deep understanding of my subject matter, and challenge my own preconceived notions.

I’m currently taking a gap year after graduating high school, exploring different places and fields of work. Volunteering with the Indy has been a highlight of the year so far — I’ve gotten a sense of what journalism can be, in a headfirst way that outpaces any college class, I would imagine. 

The Indy is a vehicle for people to investigate issues that matter to them, and to learn from the work of their fellow New Yorkers. It is a break from and a threat to corporate media, a warm and supportive community, and a place to see and speak the truth. Join the good fight and support this unique community media project any way you can!

The Indypendent is a New York City-based newspaper and website. Our independent, grassroots journalism is made possible by readers like you. Please consider making a recurring or one-time donation today or subscribe to our monthly print edition and get every copy sent straight to your home.