In this episode of River of Ideas, host Mary Yang, MWMO’s Community Outreach Specialist and former Mississippi River Green Team member, sits down with fellow Green Team alumnus Akia Vang to explore how the program shaped their journeys into environmental careers. This unique, mentored job program for Minneapolis youth, jointly run by the MWMO and the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, gave them hands-on experience with conservation efforts like habitat management, water quality monitoring, and invasive species removal. Akia, who recently completed his graduate degree at the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs, shares how his early experiences in the Green Team guided him through college, various internships, and into roles across the climate, energy, and environmental fields. Now, as a Sustainability Intern with the Metropolitan Council’s Metro Transit division and a member of both the Northside Green Zone Task Force and MWMO’s Citizen Advisory Committee, Akia remains deeply engaged in advancing environmental equity and sustainability.

Tune in to hear Mary and Akia discuss the impact of youth programs on fostering environmental leadership, how community mentorship supports diverse voices in environmental fields, and Akia's inspiring path as a next-generation leader in environmental science.

Links:
MWMO Mississippi River Green Team — https://www.mwmo.org/learn/green-workforce/green-team/

Green Workforce Development at MWMO — https://www.mwmo.org/learn/green-workforce/

Credits:
Mary Yang — Host, MWMO Community Outreach Specialist
Akia Vang — Guest, Green Team Alumnus
Akadia Johnson — Executive Producer
Adam Flett — Camera Operator and Set Assistant

About River of Ideas:
River of Ideas is a podcast about greener cities and cleaner water through science and urban planning. We cover topics like green infrastructure, water quality, landscape design, ecology, environmental policy, and environmental justice.
 
River of Ideas is produced by the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, a Minneapolis-based joint-powers local government unit and one of approximately three dozen watershed organizations in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Learn more at mwmo.org.

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by speakers on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the MWMO. The information provided during these episodes is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. The MWMO does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information shared on the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the MWMO.

Chapters:
00:16 – Introduction: Mississippi River Green Team’s Impact
00:59 – How the Green Team Shaped Akia and Mary’s Career Paths
03:42 – Youth Programs and Environmental Leadership
07:37 – The Importance of Mentorship in Diverse Environmental Careers
11:57 – Akia’s Journey from High School to College and Beyond
19:25 – Expanding Opportunities for Future Environmental Leaders
25:59 – Reflecting on the Green Team Experience: Insights from Mentors in Environmental Careers

Thanks for listening! Check us out at mwmo.org.