Name: Amir K.
High School: Temple City High School
Grade: 12
Current JSA Position: JSA Southern California Governor and Board Representative
Other JSA Positions You've Held: 2022-23: Deputy Director of Expansion, 2021-22: Angeles Region Senator and Party Councilmember, 2020-21: Cabinet Mentee
What motivated you to run for the position of governor, and what goals do you hope to achieve during your term?
I was motivated to run for the position of governor because, coming from a small chapter, the needs of smaller chapters, especially those without state cabinet members, were often overshadowed. I ran to give every member of SoCal JSA a voice and to give back to an organization that I hold quite dear to my heart. Some goals I plan to achieve are bringing back the Cabinet Mentorship Program for underclassmen, the Chapter Ambassadors Program, and expanding JSA regarding chapters and geographical coverage.
As a member of the Council of Governors (CoG), how do you envision contributing to the growth and development of JSA on a national level?
As a member of the Council of Governors, we need to work as a unified force in expanding our organization to help it reach pre-pandemic attendance and engagement levels. Furthermore, on national activism initiatives and overall civic engagement, JSAers can make a significant impact as all of our efforts are cultivated into one that young people can get behind. The goal this year is to keep a steady line of communication between JSA's board of directors and our Council of Governors with the work that the National Cabinet takes on, and I intend to reflect the wants and needs of all our JSAers through my role as board representative.
What do you wish every student knew about JSA that would encourage them to get involved?
I wish every student knew that not only is JSA such a great way to get involved and learn about all these issues affecting our youth, but it is also an incredibly fun organization composed of such vibrant, supportive individuals. Some of my closest friends are folks I've met at JSA conventions, and I wouldn't change it for the world. JSA isn't just a space for those who love government and law, but for anyone. In the cabinet, we've had alumni who majored in computer science, biology, mathematics, and political science. I urge everyone to give JSA a chance and attend a convention, and I promise you that you'll love the people and environment JSA provides.
What extracurriculars or hobbies are you involved in outside of JSA?
My passion is in government and public service. With that said, I've interned at the District Offices of Assemblymember Mike Fong (AD-49), State Senator Anthony Portantino (SD-25), and Congresswoman Judy Chu (CD-28). I currently serve as the Student Board Member for Temple City Unified, as a Temple City's Youth Committee member, and have previously been on the Los Angeles Metro Youth Council. I love exploring the communities around me and viewing sunsets.
