Deh Nee

What’s your name, age and placement site?

Hi, it’s Deh Nee here. I’m 18 and have been partnered up with Data You Can Use. Data You Can Use is a nonprofit organization that helps Milwaukee communities turn local data into practical solutions by bridging the gap between researchers and residents. Their work empowers neighborhoods, nonprofits and policymakers to make informed, equity-driven decisions.

Could you briefly describe what project(s) you have been working on at your placement? 

We’ve been working on planning their annual Data Day and finding ways to improve it so audiences more involved, not just informed.

What decisions have you made so far at your placement org? What ideas or suggestions have you contributed to that influenced how something was done? 

I haven’t made any decisions so far, because I’ve only been to one board meeting. But on behalf of the Autonomous Youth Council, I will see how youth can get more involved with data and use data ideas to create practical solutions for the community.

In what ways has your placement changed how you see yourself as a leader? 

Through my placement at Data You Can Use, I’ve learned that leadership means guiding how data is interpreted, shared, and how it is used responsibly. 

How would you describe your overall AYC and placement experience? 

My overall experience with the Autonomous Youth Council has been great because I’ve gotten to be part of my community alongside other youth and peers from different backgrounds.