Over the past two months with the Frank Karel Fellowship and Martha’s Table, I’ve grown in ways I never imagined. As a 20-year-old Black man who has faced poverty and food insecurity growing up, this experience wasn’t just another internship it was personal. I saw myself at work. I saw my story reflected in the communities we served. And most importantly, I saw how my voice could be used to uplift others.
At Martha’s Table, I stepped into the role of a storyteller. I created newsletter content, video scripts, and social media pieces that highlighted the impact of the programs, the strength of the community, and the dignity of the people being served. Every day, I got to do work that aligned with my values. Sharing stories of families accessing healthy food or early childhood education reminded me of the challenges I once faced and why I’m so passionate about changing the narrative.
The Frank Karel Fellowship helped me see myself as a public interest communicator. I was challenged to approach storytelling with an equity lens, to think critically about who holds the mic and why. I leaned into my own experiences not as baggage, but as valuable insight. These past two months reminded me that representation in this field matters. Being young, Black, and from a working-class background gives me a perspective that’s needed.
During this time, I’ve found confidence in my voice. Whether I was pitching content ideas, filming onsite, or drafting internal messages, I showed up fully and authentically. I didn’t shrink myself. I embraced my lived experience as part of my power. I also learned the importance of collaboration—how to listen deeply, adapt, and communicate with clarity and purpose.
As I look ahead, I’m walking forward with more than just new skills. I’m walking with vision. I now understand how communications can be used as a tool for justice. I want to continue creating work that not only informs, but transforms. I want to help tell the stories that don’t always get told and ensure they’re told with care, truth, and humanity.
To everyone at Martha’s Table and the Karel Fellowship: thank you for pouring into me these past two months. You saw something in me, and because of that, I now see more in myself. This is just the beginning, and I’m ready to keep showing up and making changes.