YKP Connect: June Newsletter

June Was Justifiably Jumping!

Happy June! I hope this month has been impactful and exhilarating! (as hot as it has been☀️) Summer is undoubtedly here. 🥵

In June, we celebrated Men’s mental health awareness month, Black music month and Pride Month! We hope that in all those celebrations, you took time to recognize a cause that is important to you or to someone you know. Everyone deserves to be recognized and celebrated.

I would be remiss if I did not mention what’s going on in Kenya🇰🇪
In June 2024, the country’s youth took to the streets to protest overtaxation, corruption and police brutality. But, what started as a peaceful protest devolved into a dangerous situation and at least 60 lives were lost. Our deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones. We will not forget their sacrifices.

This June, Kenya marked the one year anniversary of their tragic deaths and we are in solidarity with our brothers and sisters back home!
Even as they continue to fight for the soul of the nation, on the ground, our support, prayers and unity remain with them. To those who gave their lives in pursuit of justice, you will live forever in our hearts. 🇰🇪✊🏽

Switching gears, we’re excited to go into July! So much is in store for you and I cannot wait to share it with you! Let’s get into it:

YKP Connect Book Recommendation Series: Tressa Manns

In our book recommendation series, we highlight quality reads meant to inspire, educate and innovate fresh ideas. Today, another gift from Coach Tressa Manns. Her long awaited book is finally here.

Convicted To Grow:Rebuild your Confidence & Rise Stronger is the first title by Manns. A powerful, soul-stirring read for anyone who’s ever hit rock bottom or had a major setback and wondered, “What now?”

Whether you’ve faced grief, burnout, career shifts, or moments that made you question everything — Manns calls this title your blueprint for rebuilding your confidence, reclaiming your voice, and rising stronger.

The book is now available on her website and if you order directly off of the page, you will get a personal message and autographed copy of the book as well as access to special perks.

This is your chance to rebuild confidence and strength!

🌟The Young Professionals Spotlight Series—Amon 🌟

Welcome back to the Young Professionals Spotlight Series — and this month our light shines on Amon Tarus.🌟

💡Career Focus
Amon is a Java web Developer. He builds websites and develops softwares for users and their specific needs. Recently, Amon participated in a project to bring an application up to par with today’s technological standards. Like most of his daily work, this project required heavy involvement to modernize and enhance the app’s functionality. The successful deployment of the updated version showcased the app’s potential while simultaneously illuminating numerous open areas for future advancements demonstrating the impact of strategic development in technology.

🤝 Lessons from the Field
Early in his career, Amon learned that opportunities come and go, so it is crucial to have a clear goal of where you want to be and to strategically plan which opportunities to pursue. Additionally, strategic planning is a powerful tool that has encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone and take on challenges that he would typically avoid.

📣 Advice for Young Professionals
Amon has a simply, meticulous plan that he follows in the pursuit of excellence. Embracing intentionality and continuous growth in everything that you do. Here’s how, in three succinct points:

1. Create a clear vision for your career.

2. Embrace lifelong learning and adaptability.

3. Leverage your passions for positive contributions.

Amon also serves as the Co-Founder of YKP Connect!
Learn more about Amon’s journey and insights, by visiting our Spotlight page.

This is your moment! If you're a young professional looking to inspire others, share your journey, and highlight your impact. Learn more and apply to be featured!

What’s next?🤔

Stay engaged with upcoming YKP programs designed to support your personal and professional growth. Explore what’s ahead:

Volunteer with Us!🫵🏽

​Join our YKP Community Impact Days and make a difference!

Sign up here: Volunteer Sign Up

Food for Thought 🤔💭 Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month

As we’re pushing on in the year, I would like to bring your attention to important resources that are available regarding men’s mental health.

Due to toxic masculinity, societal and cultural pressures, men are often socialized to suppress emotions and avoid seeking help for mental health issues, leading to higher rates of negative outcomes, including suicide. But small steps can lead to significant change; changes that we all can lead together. 

If you, or someone you know is having a mental health crisis, here’s some resources you can access.
Call or text 988 or visit 988 Lifeline’s website.

Remember to take care of yourself and then, those around you, if you can.🙂‍↕️

Forward Together🫡

Well, thanks for making it this far! That was a lot of information. But we hope to continually be a part of the process, bringing you closer to a community of Young Professionals, like you and me!

Now you’re in the know! 😊
Thank you again for being part of the YKP community—we look forward to seeing you at future events! Stay tuned for more updates in our next newsletter.

The YKP Connect Team!

P.S ​Let’s keep the momentum going and connect with us! Follow YKP Connect on Instagram,  LinkedIn and now also TikTok for updates, opportunities, and future events.

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