The Chicago Fed asked youth ages 14 to 18 who attend school in the city of Chicago to share their perspectives on how the pandemic affected their communities. Teens created short videos about the challenges they and their communities face, and where they’ve found inspiration in such difficult times. The contest entries provide a candid glimpse into Chicago teens’ lives during the pandemic.

Winning Videos

1st — Efren Ponce, Walter Payton High School

2nd — Princess Nandi Alexander, The Noble Academy

3rd — Clara Biela, Rickover Naval Academy

Honorable Mentions

Niamh Dillon, Lane Tech High school

Sophia Rebolledo, Walter Payton College Prep

Alijah Gordon, University of Chicago Charter School: Woodlawn Campus

What Is Project Hometown?

Project Hometown is the Chicago Fed’s commitment to engaging all of our communities as they confront the challenges that limit economic opportunities. Project Hometown brings together civic leaders, expert researchers, Chicago Fed staff, and concerned residents. Through these diverse perspectives, Project Hometown examines how our hometowns can recover from the pandemic, overcome longstanding inequities, grow stronger, and provide all people with the opportunity to thrive.

About the Chicago Fed

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is one of 12 regional Reserve Banks across the United States that, together with the Board of Governors in Washington, DC, serve as the central bank for the nation.

The Chicago Fed serves the Seventh Federal Reserve District, an economically diverse region that includes all of Iowa and most of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The Seventh District has a large national share of many important economic sectors.