Making the Most of Every Opportunity: Keionnah’s Growth at TYWLS Astoria

At The Young Women’s Leadership School (TYWLS) of Astoria, Keionnah B., a self-described shy student, has blossomed into a confident young leader ready to take on the world of business and cosmetics after college. She shared her journey with us to encourage younger students to find their own passions and paths.

Leadership Opportunities

Q: How did you first get involved with Student Leadership Network opportunities?

When I first enrolled at TYWLS Astoria I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do or how I’d fit in at a girls’ school. Over time, I found that I had to just take chances to figure out what I enjoy. I stepped out of my comfort zone and became a Student Ambassador to practice speaking with families and other guests on school tours. I was terrified at first, but each tour made me more comfortable speaking to strangers and sharing my passion for our school.

Three women pose and smile in front of a step-and-repeat banner featuring logos from Bloomberg Philanthropies, Estée Lauder Companies, Proskauer, and Student Leadership Network, celebrating student leadership.

Keionnah, center, at the (Em)Power Breakfast, with Kristen Gordon from the Girls’+ Education team and Melissa Greene from The Estée Lauder Companies

A group of eight women and girls, showcasing student leadership, stand together and smile for a photo at an event with a backdrop featuring various sponsor logos.

Keionnah, on far left, with fellow Student Ambassadors and Student Leadership Network’s CEO, Yolonda Marshall

I also got to attend two (Em)Power Breakfasts with Student Leadership Network to greet our guests and create connections with people who work in the beauty and cosmetics industry, which is one of my passions. I also presented as part of a student group with our principal Dr. Persad at the WholeGirl+ Conference, so I’ve done a lot of different things with the network!

Q: How do you pursue your passions in your extracurricular activities?

I really love cosmetics and beauty! In my junior year, I became president of the Glamour Club. We launched a community service initiative where club members provided free makeup sessions to senior residents in nursing homes once a month, helping to combat elderly isolation while sharing our skills. I love creating joy with my friends for our community members and it was a truly amazing experience.

Two women stand and talk in front of blue lockers. One wears a neck brace and a headpiece with flowers; the other, showcasing student leadership, wears a light pink top and smiles.

Keionnah, on the right, in the lead role as Cady in Mean Girls The Play

Two teenage girls are on stage in front of blue lockers, embodying student leadership; one stands holding a notebook, while the other sits with her phone. Audience members are visible in the foreground.

Keionnah, in center, in the lead role as Cady in Mean Girls The Play

I also wanted to continue challenging myself, so I auditioned for the drama club in my senior year, despite having no background in theater. And I earned the role of Cady in Mean Girls The Play! We had nearly sold-out shows at the Hellenic Cultural Center. The experience showed me that I can be confident in trying new things at any time, and I know I’ll work hard for success.

Exploring College and Career Pathways

Q: Which Student Leadership Network opportunities have influenced your future college or career choices?

I really try to make the most of every opportunity that’s offered to me. I remember that for the CollegeBound Summer Institute program in the summer after junior year, I didn’t want to go at first. But my director of college counseling Ms. Higgins really pushed me and would not let up, she was chasing me to get that permission slip! I’m glad I went because I made friends with people from other schools that I’m still in touch with now. It’s comforting that we all are going through this together and we had a head start in figuring out how to approach our college searches and financial aid to pay for college.

Two women, showcasing student leadership, wear green T-shirts and black caps as they sit together on wooden chairs outdoors, smiling at the camera.

Keionnah worked closely with TYWLS Astoria’s Director of College Counseling, Alyssa Higgins, on the college application process

Five young women sit at a round table with papers, pens, and a water bottle, attending a TWHS at the Workplace event focused on student leadership in a conference room.

Keionnah, on far right, visited Deutsche Bank as part of the early career awareness program series TYWLS at the Workplace

I also attended many of the workplace visits organized by Student Leadership Network at financial firms and banks. I aspire to become a makeup artist, and I’d love to own my own business, which would combine cosmetics with entrepreneurship skills.

Q: What’s next on your journey?

After a long eight months of waiting on colleges, denials, and acceptances, I have decided to head to LaGuardia Community College to major in Business Administration with the hope of opening something makeup-related in the future. The process of looking for a college is difficult, stressful, and life-changing. With FAFSA, finding scholarships, getting grants, just EVERYTHING! But when you have amazing support from family and friends, as well as from teachers and college counselors, it makes the process easier. It lifts a weight off your shoulders.

One piece of advice that I would give, that my mother has given to me, is that ‘No matter where your journey takes you, you’ll be amazing in what you do.’

One piece of advice that I would give, that my mother has given to me, is that “No matter where your journey takes you, you’ll be amazing in what you do. No matter the college you get into, it doesn’t mean it’s the end of your story. Whether it’s community or a four-year, you’ll be great.” I share this to give hope to all the upcoming seniors that no matter what path you choose, you’ll do great. It’s bittersweet that high school graduation is just around the corner, but I’m excited for what comes next!