Emaan Shahzeb is the founder of The Roaring Times newsletter and a yearbook copy editor at Leadership Prep School in Frisco, Texas.

“I believe Texas needs a New Voices law passed because student journalists should feel free to express their opinions without fear of unnecessary censorship. Student media gives youth the opportunity to navigate issues and represent voices that often go unnoticed. Protecting student press rights encourages transparency in media and empowers students to make a meaningful impact in their communities.”



What I Do

As the Education Specialist and North Texas Regional Specialist of New Voices Texas, I want student journalists to be educated about their First Amendment rights while building strong connections between student journalists in the North Texas area. My goal is to ensure every student involved with a publication understands the importance of an uncensored press and feels empowered to use their voices strongly.

I am responsible for creating educational resources that make laws surrounding student press easier to comprehend. As the North Texas Regional Specialist, I also plan to connect with journalism programs such as yearbook staff and student media organizations. I want to build a strong network of uncensored student media advocates.

I will measure my success as an officer by the number of schools and organizations I am able to reach and the relationships I build with student journalists across North Texas.

By the end of the school year, I plan to expand awareness and support for passing a New Voices law in order to help and educate those who feel censorship in their publications.