Bronx High School Students Land Paid Tech Internships, Creating Opportunities for Undocumented Students
A groundbreaking internship program in the Bronx is opening doors for undocumented high school students, providing them with a chance to develop new technological skills while earning a paid income. Through Beyond Rising, these students are finally able to legally work in a growing environment that was previously inaccessible to them.
The program is made possible through a partnership between the nonprofit organization, the Oyate Group, and Lehman College. Undocumented high school students in the Bronx now have an opportunity to gain work experience and acquire valuable skills that will shape their futures.
Elvis, one of the interns at Beyond Rising, expressed his desire to emphasize the importance of each individual. He enjoys using photography as a form of self-expression and creativity. Elvis, along with his classmate Ashley, also hosts a podcast where they engage in thought-provoking conversations.
Ashley, another intern at Beyond Rising, shared her favorite aspect of the program – the opportunity to learn about people’s history and cultural backgrounds. With students coming from various countries, including Mexico and the Dominican Republic, Ashley appreciates the chance to explore different languages, religions, and traditions.
Jason Autar, the CEO of The Oyate Group, highlighted the need to bridge the gap and provide access to resources for young undocumented individuals. Autar explained that there are thousands of undocumented students in New York City who never have the chance to work in professional environments. Beyond Rising aims to address this issue and offer these students the necessary skills and opportunities they deserve.
The program currently benefits 45 individuals, but Autar envisions a much larger scale for this initiative. He believes that replicating such programs on a broader level could have a significant impact on entire communities, families, and future generations of young people.
Each student participating in Beyond Rising receives a weekly stipend of $500 in gift cards, which not only provides financial support but also recognizes their dedication and hard work. For students like Ashley and Elvis, this opportunity helps them grow both personally and professionally as they connect with new people and expand their skill sets.
Excitingly, Beyond Rising will now be available throughout the year, allowing even more students to access these life-changing internships. Applications for the program will open in mid-fall, giving aspiring students the chance to secure their spot.
This innovative program is not only changing the lives of the students involved but also paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse workforce in the tech industry. By offering undocumented high school students paid internships and the opportunity to develop technological skills, Beyond Rising is breaking down barriers and ensuring that talent is recognized, regardless of immigration status.
The success of Beyond Rising demonstrates the potential impact of programs that prioritize equal opportunities for all individuals. As more organizations embrace inclusive initiatives, society takes a step forward towards a more equitable future.
