Samma Elhammady

Current Role:

Linkedin Profile

What inspired you to begin volunteering with LEAD, and what keeps you coming back?

I began volunteering with LEAD because i value their mission of making opportunities accesible to under resourced areas. I continue to volunteer because I see how impactful LEAD is for students.

Can you share a specific moment or experience during your time with LEAD that reaffirmed your commitment to our mission?

A student said she felt more confident and independent after attending LEAD’s summer camps.

What aspects of LEAD’s programs or impact resonate most with you personally?

Growing up near Houston, I did not know about different places or opportunities that exist in Houston. Our Saturday programs resonate the most with me because LEAD focuses on showing kids opportunities they would not have had otherwise. Our most recent field trip was to the University of Houston where my team and I gave a tour of the university and talked about our majors and scholarships available at the university. This experience was impactful because it was hard for me to find scholarships when I started college so being able to give back to the community and help people easily access resources is meaningful.

How has your involvement with LEAD influenced your perspective on youth development and leadership?

LEAD has taught me the importance of education beyond the classroom. I have seen first hand how LEAD’s ambassador Saturdays have positively contributed to youth development. Ambassador Saturdays have allowed students to explore new career options and discover opportunities that fit their interests.

How do you support LEAD?

I am a volunteer and I served as a camp counselor for LEAD’s Labor Day camp.

How have you seen the student LEADers grow and change?

I have seen students become more confident after LEAD’s summer camps.