About the Student Wing
The Student Wing is a youth-powered working group of the Plant Powered School Meals Coalition, led by students and for students.
Open to middle school, high school, and college students, this is a home for young people passionate about federal policy, media, and launching impactful campaigns to expand plant-based options in their schools.
By joining, students will:
Publish op-eds, lead school food change campaigns, and meet with federal legislators.
Build deep, lasting connections with students, school food professionals, and 40+ organizations nationwide.
Find community with a network of students from across the nation working to transforming school food.
Receive mentorship and peer guidance on college, careers in food systems, and school food advocacy.
Develop hands-on skills in policy advocacy and organizing at the school district, state, and federal levels.
Stay informed through our listserv and exclusive updates.
Join the Movement for Plant-Based School Food!
Meet the Co-Leads
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Nitya Jakka
Nitya first began advocating for plant-based school meals at her high school. Through the Plant Powered Youth Fellowship, she learned from peers who faced similar issues at their own schools and became committed to advocating at the federal level. Since then, Nitya has worked with environmental organizations to advance legislation for sustainable food procurement. Nitya studies business and policy at Carnegie Mellon University, where she is involved in local social impact initiatives.
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Nancy Zhang
“I constantly feel so inspired by all the students around me and the deep passion we all share for improving on these issues. As a student deeply passionate about nutrition, I have previously worked with my school district to bring more nutritious, plant-based meals to my school’s cafeteria…I urge others to get involved in this movement.”
