Youth Spotlight: Nina Williams

By Hannah Conoley: Community Mobilizer

Nina Williams has spent her high school years saying “yes” to new experiences, and that spirit of curiosity has shaped her into a powerful young leader in Eagle County. As a senior, she wears many hats: Varsity Dance Team captain, TEDx youth speaker, participant in The Cycle Effect and Mountain Youth Communities That Care Coalition member. 

Looking back on the past year, Nina is most proud of how much she has pushed herself to branch out. From joining the Communities That Care (CTC) Coalition to speaking at TEDx events, she has discovered what motivates her and what she hopes to pursue in the future. “Trying new things helped me figure out who I want to be,” she shared.

Her involvement with CTC has been especially meaningful. Nina loves how hands-on and inclusive the coalition is, and how seriously student voices are taken. She feels empowered knowing that young people help shape decisions and create real change. “It makes a big difference in the community,” she said. “I’m proud to be part of something that helps other students.”

When asked what advice she’d give younger peers, Nina doesn’t hesitate: “Branch out and enjoy your youth. You should always try new things and it doesn’t have to be with someone else—it can be just you. You don’t want to wish you had tried things. Try it and don’t live with regrets.”

Nina credits her mom as one of her biggest inspirations. Her mother encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone, meet new people, and follow her passions. “Always do the things you are passionate about,” her mom would say—a message that has shaped Nina’s confidence and willingness to grow.

One of the most pivotal moments in Nina’s high school journey was joining the dance team. As one of only a few freshmen, she initially felt intimidated by the older, more experienced dancers. But the team quickly became a source of strength. Being surrounded by supportive teammates helped her build confidence not only in dance, but in every part of her life.

As she prepares for graduation, Nina is excited for the next chapter. She will be the first in her mother’s family to attend college, a milestone that feels both meaningful and motivating. She looks forward to new experiences, new people, and carrying her voice for change into adulthood. “If you want to change something, you have to take action,” she said. “I want to keep that determination rather than hoping someone else will make that change for me.”

Growing up in this community has offered both strengths and challenges. Nina appreciates the diversity she’s been surrounded by, especially attending a bilingual school where speaking Spanish helped her connect with more people. To top it off, Nina is multilingual—English, Spanish, and Italian! At the same time, she didn’t always see representation of her own Italian and Black heritage, something that shaped her understanding of identity and belonging.

Looking ahead, Nina dreams of studying journalism. She hopes to use her voice to uplift others, especially those whose stories often go unheard. “I want to help people be seen and heard,” she said—a fitting goal for someone who already leads with empathy, courage, and a deep commitment to community.