Amaya D’Souza is spending her summer doing more than relaxing—she’s focused on community action. The Palm Desert High senior and NBC Palm Springs community reporter is using her platform to highlight local organizations making a difference, like Alianza Coachella Valley.
The nonprofit, based in the Eastern Coachella Valley, focuses on addressing regional socioeconomic issues through community collaboration. Alianza runs initiatives including environmental advocacy at the Salton Sea and programs like their Education Justice effort, which uses restorative practices to address conflict in schools.
One standout opportunity: their Youth Organizing Council. Open to teens like Amaya, it allows young people to directly engage in community leadership. Applications for the program are currently open, giving local youth a chance to shape real change.
“It’s a great reminder that just because you’re a teenager doesn’t mean you have to sit on the sidelines,” Amaya says. “Organizations like Alianza want you involved. They need your voice.”
The group also hosts events like the Hue Music Festival, a cultural celebration in Coachella that highlights local artists and boosts economic activity in the East Valley.
Those interested in getting involved—whether teens or adults—can visit alianzacv.org to apply for youth leadership roles or volunteer opportunities.
As for Amaya, between her internship, workouts, and community work, she still finds time to rest—and remind others that learning to “just be” is a skill, too.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: Fred Roggin
June 20, 2025
