Connecting the Dottes Quarterly Success StoryJegna Klub’s Connecting The Dottes Evidence Based Program – Q2
- Moses Wyatt
- Jan 9
- 3 min read
By Levi Lee
As 2025 drew to a close, The Jegna Klub’s Connecting The Dottes Multimedia Internship Program continued to amplify youth voices, build real-world skills, and launch future leaders into purposeful careers. This quarter (October through December), one participant in particular — Delano Washington — distinguished himself as a standout emerging media professional and creative contributor whose journey exemplifies the mission and impact of the program.
From Aspiring Intern to Media Creator: Delano’s Growth Journey
Delano entered Quarter 2 fully engaged in the Connecting The Dottes experience. Over the past three months, Delano has shown remarkable progress in communication, productivity, and technical media skills — core competencies emphasized by the program and essential for success in the modern media landscape. These assets are nurtured through internships with Jegna Klub’s multimedia initiatives, including JEGNAFEST Worldwide Radio and social media production.
Engagement and Achievements: Real-World Impact in Q2
1. Media Production & Radio Engagement
Delano wasn’t just a participant — he became a content creator and interviewer on JEGNAFEST Worldwide Radio, the Klub’s globally syndicated youth media platform. JEGNAFEST — heard on 152 stations worldwide — empowers interns to produce shows, interview guests, and learn broadcast skills that translate to careers in media and communications.
His on-air presence and interview skills improved noticeably, and he consistently brought professionalism and curiosity to guest conversations — a testament to both his growth and the supportive structure of the internship.
2. Technical Growth: Audio & Video Editing
Beyond the microphone, Delano expanded into individual audio engineering and video editing. He took on projects that involved cleaning audio tracks to meet radio standards and producing engaging short-form video content for TikTok and other social platforms. These are exactly the kinds of real-world, client-connected tasks the program emphasizes.
3. Creative Leadership: Voice-Over & Script Development
A highlight of the quarter was Delano’s role in developing a voice-over script, recording it as the featured voice talent, recording the video for the voice over script and then assisting in the editing process for a finished social media piece. His influence on this content helped it resonate widely online — driving significant engagement and extending the reach of The Jegna Klub’s mission.
The result? A social clip that achieved over 17,000 views, 1,500+ likes, and contributed to 330+ new followers on TikTok alone — a striking performance that underscores his growing skill set and audience connection.
Program Activities & Broader Engagement This Quarter
Delano’s work unfolded alongside other key Jegna Klub activities in Q2 that enriched participant experiences:
• 2025 Reasons to Believe Awards Ceremony – Delano was part of the media team covering this community celebration of excellence hosted by the Kansas City Kansas School Foundation For Excellence in November, gaining experience in live event media coverage and professional networking.
• Economic Independence Academy Workshops (November & December) – These workshops reinforce themes of financial literacy and economic empowerment, complementing the media, communications, and workforce skill building in Connecting The Dottes.
Together, these milestones created a blended learning environment where media production, community engagement, economic literacy, and personal growth intersect.
What Success Looks Like: Delano’s Progress in Context
Delano’s growth over the quarter perfectly illustrates how Connecting The Dottes prepares youth for life beyond school:
• Communication Skills: He moved from participant to interviewer, building confidence and clarity in professional conversations.
• Technical Competence: By learning digital audio and video editing, Delano gained tangible skills that are valuable in careers from broadcasting to content creation.
• Creativity & Initiative: Leading on script development and editing content shows curiosity and ownership — markers of a developing creative professional.
• Audience Impact: His work sparked measurable engagement on social media, demonstrating an ability to create content that resonates with real audiences.
These achievements reflect not only personal development but also the broader success of the program in developing employable skills, digital fluency, and professional confidence among youth.
A Community Proud of Progress
Staff, community partners, and peers at Jegna Klub are proud of Delano’s dedication and results. His work over the past quarter is more than an individual success story — it is a reflection of what happens when supportive, evidence-based programs give young people access to real opportunities and real tools for success.
As Delano continues his journey in digital media, broadcasting, and creative communication, he stands as a vivid example of how Connecting The Dottes equips interns with skills, confidence, and a platform to shine.
Looking Ahead:
As we transition into the next quarter of 2026, the momentum built this past fall and winter sets a strong foundation for Delano and his peers. With continued practice, access to coaching, and opportunities to apply their skills in new formats, the sky is the limit for what these young leaders can achieve — on air, behind the scenes, and in their future careers.