Y.O.U. Alumni Crew: Q&A with Congresswoman Shontel Brown

Introducing a new series: Y.O.U. Alumni Crew. In this feature, we spotlight a Y.O.U. alum whose journey reflects the impact of our workforce development programming. Through these opportunities, alumni gain skills, confidence, and connections that support their success whether building a career, contributing to their community, or leading change on a larger scale. 

In this special Q&A, Congresswoman Shontel Brown reflects on her Y.O.U. journey — from community beautification projects to Capitol Hill. She shares the lessons of pride in community that continue to shape her leadership and her hopes for the next generation of young leaders.  

Can you share a bit about yourself and what you are doing now?

I’m the proud representative of Ohio’s 11th Congressional District in the House of Representatives. I never thought I would be a member of Congress, but after serving on the Warrensville Heights City Council, the Cuyahoga County Council, and as Cuyahoga County Democratic Party Chair, I was elected to Congress in 2021. I am honored and humbled to serve the people of Northeast Ohio. 

What motivated you to get involved with Y.O.U.’s summer jobs program when you were in high school? 

I heard good things about the program and really wanted the chance to earn some money while picking up a new skill that could potentially help me get other opportunities in the future. 

What year did you participate in the Summer Youth Employment Program? 

I think it was 1991 or 1992. 

What was your first impression of the program? 

It was fun and challenging. It was nice to work with my peers, and it was great to learn different skills. 

What job placement or role did you have during your time in the Y.O.U. summer jobs program? 

My summer job was painting the exterior of houses or what one might call a Community Beautification Specialist today.  

Was there a particular mentor, supervisor, or experience that made a big impact on you? 

Pastor Rev. Larry L. Harris of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. He ran the program out of his church. He also invited us to attend church services on Sunday, and I took him up on the invitation. He eventually became my pastor. 

What was one lesson or skill you learned in the program that has stayed with you? 

Learning to paint is actually a skill I’ve used in my adult life. Taking on painting projects at my own home has been very gratifying and financially rewarding. 

How did your time in Y.O.U. shape your career or educational journey? 

During my time in the program, I learned that pride in community was a huge part of the experience, and the house painting really reinforced that value. The focus on beautifying our neighborhood has always stayed with me and working together to keep our community clean and safe has been a major part of my journey personally, professionally, and politically. 

Looking back, do you see a direct connection between what you gained at Y.O.U. and your success today? 

Absolutely, Y.O.U. not only provided a skill that I could fall back on if I ever needed to, but it also helped cultivate pride in myself and in my community. 

What advice would you give to current students or young people entering the Y.O.U. program? 

Ask questions. If you see someone doing what you want to do, talk to them, ask questions, and figure out how they got there. That’s what this program is all about connections and experience so take full advantage. 

What are some projects or initiatives you are most excited about in your role today? 

It’s a challenging time in Washington right now, to say the least. However, I’m continuing to fight for more federal resources for Northeast Ohio and efforts that build a more fair and inclusive society. Educational equity and opportunity, as well as workforce development, are very important. 

How do you stay connected to youth, workforce development, or your community now? 

My office has made youth outreach a priority. This includes our OH-11 Youth Advisory Council, a comprehensive program for high school juniors and seniors. It’s an incredible program: students get to meet with local leaders, learn about policy issues and how Congress works, and complete a capstone project. It’s an opportunity to work closely with my office and see how government works up close. I encourage any interested students, parents, or educators to contact my office or check out the info at shontelbrown.house.gov. 

What legacy or message would you like to share with the next generation of Y.O.U. participants? 

Believe in yourself and don’t set limits on your potential. Stop saying “can’t” or “won’t” those words won’t get you anywhere. It’s a cliché, but it’s really true. That’s why I admire the work that the Y.O.U. program does. So many young people in our community have heard the outside noise and the doubts and internalized them. It’s tragic. I want young people to see themselves the way we see them: full of potential.