Yolenna: From Girl Scout to Changemaker

July 25, 2026

When Yolenna joined Girl Scouts as a Brownie in Papillion, she was full of energy and eager to make a difference. What she didn't know yet was that Girl Scouts would help turn that passion into purpose.

As she grew through the program, Yolenna discovered more than leadership skills. She found her voice. She learned to navigate important conversations about stereotypes, equity, and belonging while building friendships with girls from different backgrounds and experiences. Through the Girl Scout Cookie Program, travel, community service, and her Bronze and Silver Award projects, she gained the confidence to lead and create meaningful change.

Those experiences didn't end when she graduated from Girl Scouts. They became the foundation for everything that came next. Today, Yolenna has started clubs, served as a Chief Diversity Officer in student government, became a certified sexual assault advocate, traveled to 11 countries, graduated from college, and now works as a paralegal while preparing to compete for Miss Nebraska and the Miss America Opportunity.

"What you build in those years does not stay there, it follows you. It turns into confidence, community, and the ability to walk into spaces and know you belong. And for me, that started with Girl Scouts."

That's the power of Girl Scouts. The lessons girls learn today become the confidence, leadership, and purpose they carry with them for the rest of their lives.

100 years. Countless stories. One lasting legacy.