The Why Report
The Why Report is a youth-powered journalism project that helps young people become curious, thoughtful, and confident storytellers.
Through pop-up newsrooms, community events, and hands-on reporting experiences, children step into the role of journalist for a day. They receive a reporter badge, learn to use professional cameras and microphones, interview community members, ask meaningful questions, and document the stories that shape their neighborhoods.
Our signature approach begins with one simple question: Why?
Rather than memorizing facts, young reporters learn to investigate, listen, verify information, and understand multiple perspectives. Every interview, portrait, and video contributes to a growing archive of community voices while helping participants develop communication, critical thinking, creativity, and media literacy skills.
Whether filming at New York City's Open Streets, documenting neighborhood history, or asking residents about the issues that matter most, The Why Report empowers the next generation to become active citizens and compassionate storytellers.
Everyone has a story. Every story begins with a question.
Why?
OUR TEAM
Avantika is a recent graduate of Princeton University, where she majored in Economics with minors in Art History and English. A creative at heart, she strives to pair interests in design and film with a strategic, analytical approach shaped by her work in media-focused consulting. Her art has been recognized internationally at programs such as the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards and Venice Art Biennale. She is currently a fellow with the Gotham Institute for Film and Media. She aims to bring this same blend of creative and strategic thinking to her work with Open Streets.
Anisa completed her master's in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at New York University. She studied gamification, training programs, and development practices. Anisa is motivated by her own academic and emotional growth, which she believes makes her diligent in her efforts over each task she completes. She is passionate about the needs of others that she sees around her, and her life goal is to make a positive change in the lives of those who interact with her work.