In 2015, a shy, 15-year-old New York Rangers-loving high school junior took a chance on applying to a brand-new Youth Ambassador program with the Henrik Lundqvist Foundation (HLF). Eleven years, and a lifetime of memories and experience later, that same girl spent a snowy Sunday morning welcoming a new class of Ambassadors. In each young face, I recognized a piece of my 15-year-old self: anxious to start a new journey, eager to prove themselves, and excited by all the possibilities the future holds.
As winter storm Fern quietly blanketed the area on Sunday, January 25the, 16 new Youth Ambassadors virtually came together for the first time alongside their mentors and program leaders. After introductions, Senior Program Director Meri Wolff set a welcoming tone with lighthearted Zoom icebreakers, sharing a few laughs that helped ease nerves and turned a virtual meeting into a genuine connection.
Then the orientation shifted into a deeper look at the heart of HLF. Executive Director Johanna Bialous led an overview of HLF’s mission and impact, introducing the purpose behind the program and the meaningful work they are now a part of. This was followed by a welcome message from founder Henrik Lundqvist, who greeted the Ambassadors and wished them luck as they begin their year of service.
The session continued with a walk-through of the program structure, including a review of what the year ahead will entail. The Ambassadors heard from members of the HLFYA leadership team, including remarks from the HLFYA Alumni President Jack Reynolds and the HLFYA Program Coordinator Alicia McCarvill, who emphasized the importance of community and initiative within the program.
One of the most meaningful moments of the morning came during the mentor-mentee breakout chats. These smaller conversations allowed Ambassadors to ask questions, share goals and begin building relationships that will grow throughout the year. Watching those conversations unfold brought me back to my own experience in the program and reminded me why it stayed with me.
The morning concluded with a final Q&A, words of encouragement and warm goodbyes, leaving the group feeling excited, supported and ready for what lies ahead. Logging off the Zoom call, I realized how full circle the moment felt. Eleven classes later, the mission remains the same, empowering young leaders to make a difference in their communities and beyond. Watching this new group take their first steps reinforced why this program continues to matter and why I am proud to remain part of the Henrik Lundqvist Foundation.
Written by HLFYA Alumni (and member of the inaugural YA Class) Emily Glynn
