Listening to Pennsylvania's Youth: Samira Sankaran Brings Young Voices to the Governor's Office

Boiling Springs, PA (Monday July 20, 2026)

When Samira Sankaran visits communities across Pennsylvania, her goal is simple: listen.

As executive director of the Governor's Advisory Commission on Next Generation Engagement, Samira serves as a liaison between Pennsylvania's Governor and young people ages 16 to 26. She spends much of her time meeting directly with youth across the Commonwealth to better understand their experiences, challenges, and hopes for the future. Those conversations help shape the policy recommendations she brings to the Governor each year.

During a recent visit to Diakon's Wilderness Center, Samira met with youth and staff to learn more about the experiences of young people involved in the juvenile justice system and the programs that support them.

Samira, left; Jason Brode, Executive Director of Diakon Youth Services

She believes one of the biggest misconceptions about young people, particularly those facing challenges, is that disengagement means they don't care.

"Kids just want the chance," she said. "They need mentors and people who believe in them."

For youth who have experienced difficult circumstances or lacked positive role models, those supportive relationships can make an even greater difference. Samira emphasized that while all young people benefit from encouragement, vulnerable youth often need adults who are willing to invest their time, build trust, and help them see new possibilities.

As part of her role, Samira gathers feedback from young people throughout the Commonwealth and distills those conversations into key policy priorities she presents to the Governor. Rather than speaking for youth, she focuses on ensuring their voices are heard in decisions that affect education, workforce development, mental health, public safety, and other important issues.

The Governor's Advisory Commission on Next Generation Engagement is currently focused on advancing mental health, gun violence prevention, education, and opportunity while also addressing the growing impact of digital safety across each of those areas.

When asked what message she would share with adults looking to better support vulnerable youth, Samira's answer was straightforward: get involved.

She encourages adults to volunteer, be present in their communities, and build meaningful relationships with young people. By showing they care and helping youth develop valuable connections, adults can open doors that many young people may not even know exist.

Samira left the Wilderness Center inspired by what she experienced.

"It has been the most peaceful time that I've had in a very long time," she said. "I'm lucky to have gotten to talk to some of the kids around here. The staff is incredible, and I'm looking forward to coming back."

Her visit reinforced a shared belief between the Governor's Advisory Commission on Next Generation Engagement and Diakon: when adults take the time to listen, encourage, and invest in young people, they help create opportunities that can change lives.