Congratulations, Cohort 2024!

The 2024 Youth Construct graduation was an evening of brilliance and celebration, set against the impressive backdrop of Amazon JFK Hangover —a venue that perfectly matched the grandeur of the occasion. Hosted by the charismatic Justin Pack, Amazon’s Principal IXT Business Partner, the event radiated a blend of elegance and excitement, leaving everyone in attendance buzzing with pride and joy.

The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the inspiring keynote speech delivered by Steven McKessey, Senior VP of Project Management at Cumming Group. With passion and candor, Steven shared his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to working at one of the most respected construction firms in the world. He emphasized the critical need for programs like Youth Construct, vital to building the New York City’s future. His words ignited a spark in the room, reminding everyone why we do what we do.

 Adding to the night’s inspiration was a heartfelt speech from Keely Wu, this year’s ACED award winner. Keely shared their journey of navigating their first internship—a challenging yet transformative experience. They spoke about the uncertainty they faced and how it became a turning point, propelling their future. Their story resonated with the audience, reminding us all that success often comes through perseverance and self-discovery.

This year, we proudly celebrated 17 graduates, each with a unique story of growth and hard work. Their achievements were rewarded not only with applause but also with summer internships, setting the stage for their future careers.

The night was filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories, all captured in snapshots by Jason Serrano that will forever preserve the magic of the evening. As the event came to a close, one thing was certain: the future is incredibly bright for Cohort 2024. They leave us not just as graduates, but as emerging leaders ready to make their mark in the industry.

Congratulations, Cohort 2024—you’ve made us prouder than words can express!