The Leader of this Week is the President of the Obsidian Club: Keeya Makonnen. Makonnen became the leader of the club this school year after being a member last year, but decided she wanted to lead the club, as it is something she is passionate about. 

Q: What inspired you to become the president of the Obsidian Club?

A: I was inspired to take on this leadership role because I wanted to help create a strong, supportive community where Black students feel empowered, heard, and represented. I’ve always been passionate about advocacy, celebrating Black culture, and having meaningful connections among students. Becoming president gave me the opportunity to turn those passions into action.

Q: How do you organize and plan club activities or events?

A: Planning the club activities involves collaboration with our club officers, gathering input from members, and ensuring that our events align with our mission. We hold regular meetings to discuss ideas, assign responsibilities, and set timelines. We also work closely with Mr. Brown and other student organizations to maximize our impact.

Q: How do you encourage new members to join, and what qualities do you look for in them?

A: We encourage new members by hosting engaging events, spreading the word through social media and posters throughout the school, and making sure people know they’re welcome, regardless of their background. We look for members who are passionate about learning, advocating for others, and building community.

Q: How do you ensure that all members are actively involved and feel included in the club’s activities?

A: We strive to make our club as inclusive as possible by offering a variety of events, from discussions and workshops to social gatherings. We also check in with members regularly to get feedback and ideas. Everyone’s voice matters, and we want our members to feel like they play an active role in shaping the club.

Q: How do you handle challenges or conflicts that may arise within the club?

A: When conflicts arise, I prioritize open communication and active listening. I try to mediate discussions in a way that allows everyone to express their perspective while keeping our shared goals in mind. My goal is always to foster understanding and find solutions that benefit the group as a whole.

Q: Can you share any past events or projects the club has worked on that you are particularly proud of?

A: One event I’m particularly proud of is our weekly Black History Month Presentations. It was a great success because it brought people together, educated our school community, and reinforced the importance of our mission.

Q: What do you think makes the Obsidian Club unique compared to other clubs in the school?

A: What makes our club unique is that it serves as both a cultural hub and a space for advocacy. We don’t just host social events we also educate, uplift, and create opportunities for meaningful discussions. Our club fosters a sense of belonging and identity, making it a home away from home for many students.

Q: Can you describe the main goals and values of the Obsidian Club?

A: Our main goals are to promote cultural awareness, provide a safe and supportive space for Black students, and advocate for diversity and inclusion in our school. We value unity, education, empowerment, and service—whether through community outreach, discussions on social justice, or celebrating Black excellence in all forms.

Q: What has been the most rewarding experience for you as a leader of the Obsidian Club?

A: One of the most rewarding experiences has been seeing the impact our club has on members, whether it’s someone finding their voice in a discussion, students forming friendships, or the success of an event that brings people together. Knowing that we are creating a space where people feel seen and valued is incredibly fulfilling.

Q: What are your plans for the club’s future and any upcoming projects or initiatives?

A: I hope to expand our outreach, collaborate with more organizations, and introduce new initiatives, such as mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and service projects. We also want to continue advocating for policies and initiatives that support Black students at our school.