Inside GenNEXT: The young changemakers shaping our community

For young professionals eager to make a difference while building leadership skills, the GenNEXT Cabinet offers a space to create real impact. This team of volunteers in their 20s and 30s works together to support United Way of the Alberta Capital Region’s mission — driving community change through advocacy, event coordination, and strategic initiatives.

But what is it really like to be part of GenNEXT? We spoke to three current cabinet members to get a behind-the-scenes look at their experiences — how they got involved, what they’ve learned, and the impact they’re making.

A Purpose-Driven Community

GenNEXT attracts young leaders who want to channel their energy into something meaningful. Some members join because they’ve seen the direct impact of United Way’s work while others are interested in making connections with like-minded peers, mentors, and the broader community they’re working to support. No matter their path to Cabinet, members share a common goal: to help create a region where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

“I was looking for new ways to volunteer with United Way after a board internship through school,” says Brett Eigner, Cabinet Co-Chair. “GenNEXT was the perfect opportunity to keep working with an organization I believed in.”

Natalie Steffl, Cabinet Co-Chair was drawn to GenNEXT after seeing United Way’s impact firsthand. “Knowing the great work United Way does in the community through my work with a funded agency made me want to get involved,” she explains.

For Ryan Danyluik, Cabinet Member, the motivation came from a desire to contribute to meaningful change. He shares, “I wanted to volunteer with an organization that makes a difference, especially around poverty reduction and related impacts.”

Developing Leadership While Making a Difference

Beyond its social impact, the GenNEXT Cabinet provides a unique platform for young professionals to enhance their leadership skills. Members take on roles in strategic planning, event coordination, and advocacy, gaining valuable experience that translates into their personal and professional lives.

Brett found that the experience gave him a greater sense of purpose beyond his career. “GenNEXT has allowed me to give back to the community while learning new skills. I’ve also had the chance to work on things, like the podcast, that I never would have before,” he says. “It’s given me opportunities to practice leading others and build leadership experience that will help me in my professional career.”

For Natalie, the Cabinet provided both personal fulfillment and professional growth. “It’s been an absolutely wonderful growth opportunity and I’ve felt so connected and fulfilled through volunteering. In my co-chair role, I’ve gained leadership experience and expanded my network in ways that have influenced my career goals.”

Ryan echoes this sentiment, adding that being part of GenNEXT has expanded his understanding of United Way’s impact in community. “It’s shown me that you can make a difference in a variety of ways. Learning about United Way’s work in a deeper way has really reinforced just how impactful their services are.”

GenNEXT Cabinet members recording the Do Local Good podcast.

Projects That Inspire Change

A key part of the GenNEXT experience is working on initiatives that make a difference in the community. Two standout projects have been the Period Promise Product Drive and the Do Local Good podcast.

“Period Promise was an eye-opening experience for me,” Brett shares. “As a man, I had never fully understood the struggles of those who need menstrual products but can’t easily access them. Collecting donations is one thing, but the real impact comes from expanding the conversation and raising awareness.”

Ryan also points to Period Promise as a standout initiative. “It’s been incredible to see how it mobilizes people. The engagement and support it generates show how much the community cares about this issue.”

For Natalie, the Do Local Good podcast has been both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. “Hosting an episode was a bit outside of my comfort zone, but it was so much fun! It’s been an incredible way to share important stories with the community.”

Period Product Drive hosted by the GenNEXT Cabinet.

A New Lens on Community Challenges

Perhaps the most profound takeaway for many GenNEXT members is how the experience has shifted their understanding of local social issues.

Brett shares that his biggest takeaway has been understanding just how interconnected social issues are. “I’ve learned how vast these challenges are, but also how small contributions can add up to make a huge difference. Everyone has a role to play.”

Natalie has valued the fresh perspectives she’s gained from working with other Cabinet members. “Meeting people outside of my own sector helped me see the social sector in a new way. Working in nonprofits can sometimes feel like an echo chamber, so I appreciated getting a different lens on the work we do.”

For Ryan, GenNEXT reinforced the importance of community involvement. “It’s reaffirmed how critical it is to be engaged in your community. The more people who get involved, the stronger we are together.”

Join the Movement

GenNEXT is a platform for young professionals to drive change, grow as leaders, and build lasting connections. Whether it’s organizing impactful initiatives, advocating for community needs, or developing new skills, Cabinet members leave their mark on the Alberta Capital Region.