Why Inclusion Matters: A Conversation with The Beehive Co-Founders
In this episode, I sit down with Meredith Otness and Edie Mayan, the co-founders of The Beehive Foundation, a teen-led organization creating community and inclusion for teens with special needs. We talk about how The Beehive started, what inspired them to co-found it, and why inclusion and understanding matter so much, especially in high school. We also talk about Meredith's blog Share the Rare, inspired by her brother John, which highlights kids living with ultra-rare genetic disorders and shares their stories beyond a diagnosis. Meredith and Edie explain why storytelling is such a powerful way to change perspectives and help people truly see others for who they are. This conversation is such a reminder that everyone has a story worth knowing, and that teens can create real change when they choose empathy, curiosity, and kindness.
Learn more about The Beehive Foundation here: https://www.thebeehivehtx.org/home
Read and support Share the Rare here: https://www.thebeehivehtx.org/share-the-rare
If you’re looking for ways to be more inclusive or want to support something meaningful created by teens, this episode is for you!
For anyone listening who may not know you yet, can you both introduce yourselves and share how you met and became co-founders?
How did the idea for The Beehive Foundation first come about?
What is the core mission of The Beehive, and what do you hope teens take away from being part of it?
What does inclusion look like in real life?
Why do you think inclusion is such an important conversation for teens right now?
As someone who is also in high school, I understand just how time consuming the activities and academics that come with high school are. With that being said, What has been the most challenging part of starting and running a nonprofit as teens?
What has been one of the most meaningful or memorable moments you’ve experienced through The Beehive so far?
What do you hope this organization grows into over the next few years?