What does a fair education system really look like?

In this episode of Detroit Youth Rising, Azaria, former president of the Detroit Phoenix Center Youth Action Board, sits down with Carter and Justin to talk about the role education plays in young people's lives. They share why access to learning is so important, how their own school experiences have shaped them, and what gaps they see between what's taught in classrooms and what students actually need to thrive.

The conversation touches on everything from financial literacy to mental health, with Carter and Justin opening up about the barriers that keep many youth from reaching their potential. They discuss the pressures of grades and rules, the weight of family and financial struggles, and the stereotypes students face in school. Both reflect on what parents, teachers, and administrators could do differently to make education more relevant and supportive.

Through honesty and personal stories, Carter and Justin highlight both the promise and the shortcomings of today's education system. Their perspectives remind us that while education is often described as the great equalizer, it only fulfills that role when every student has the resources, respect, and opportunities they need to succeed.