Windham High School student shares story of adversity to resilience on the TEDx Talk stage

By Lorraine Glowczak

WHS senior Kendra Eubanks spoke at
TEDx on Saturday, Nov. 8 at UNE in
Portland. SUBMITTED PHOTO

 Being invited to speak at a TEDx Talk is a rare honor, especially at just 17 years old. For Windham High School (WHS) senior Kendra Eubanks, that honor became reality on Saturday afternoon, November 8 at the TEDxDirigo event on the UNE Portland campus, speaking openly about overcoming adversity, embracing resilience, and discovering the strength that comes from self-advocacy and community.

Eubanks’ story began at a Portland middle school, when bullying left her anxious and isolated. “As a biracial person from white and black backgrounds, I wasn’t Black enough for the Black students,” she told the audience. “Their resentment grew into intimidation.” The harassment became so severe that school administrators asked her to eat lunch in the teachers’ lounge for her safety, away from peers in the cafeteria.

Although the bullying often left her in tears, Eubanks still considered the Portland middle school her community. She had attended there since kindergarten, surrounded by familiar teachers and classmates. But one afternoon, everything changed.

“I was in woodshop class when I got called to the principal’s office,” she said. “That wasn’t unusual because I was often called to the office regarding the harassment, but when they told me to bring all my belongings, my heart started racing. When I walked in, not only was the principal there, but my parents were too.”

The principal explained that the school could no longer protect her and it was recommended that she attend another school. Fearing for their child’s safety, her parents agreed and removed Kendra from the school.

When it came time to choose a new environment, Eubanks, who felt discouraged that she didn’t get a choice to stay at the Portland school, wanted her voice to be part of the next decision. “I wanted to advocate for myself,” she said. Since one of her parents lived in Windham, she chose Windham Middle School.

At first, adjusting wasn’t easy. “I wasn’t white enough for the white community,” she said. But unlike her previous experience, her “Blackness was appreciated”. She found support from teachers, administrators and a growing sense of belonging among other students of color.

This acceptance boosted her confidence to become more involved. During her freshman year at WHS, Eubanks co-founded the Black Student Union (BSU), which has since grown into a space for students of color to share experiences, build connections, and foster inclusivity.

Her leadership has expanded beyond BSU, by joining the JMG (Jobs for Maine Graduates) Leadership Team and participating in volleyball and track and field. As Eubanks’ passion for change grew, she was inspired to speak at the annual New England Youth Identity Summit, hosted by Waynflete in Portland. At last year’s summit, during her second appearance, a TEDxDirigo organizer who attended her session was moved by her story and invited her to bring her message to a larger audience.

Eubanks accepted this opportunity because she wanted people to hear her story. “I don’t want people to feel bad for me but to see how I overcame my challenges and how much good came out of everything.”

WHS staff were not surprised by her invitation to speak.

“When I first heard that Kendra was giving a Ted Talk, I was incredibly excited for her,” JMG Specialist and Teacher, Jen Dumont said. “But, honestly, I wasn't all too surprised. Kendra has an effervescent personality combined with an earnest passion for justice and equity. Her willingness to step outside of her comfort zone has afforded her so many wonderful opportunities to develop her leadership skills and make an impact on our community and beyond. Kendra is a bright light in our school community. Beyond her leadership skills and compassion for the underrepresented, Kendra is a constant source of kindness, inspiration, and hope. As her teacher and advisor, I couldn't be more proud of her.” 

Beyond her leadership at WHS, Eubanks has continued to be involved in youth events, including Seeds of Peace and other leadership summits, experiences that have shaped her as both a student and a changemaker.

As she looks ahead to college, Eubanks is considering several offers but remains focused on her long-term goal: pursuing a degree in political science and continuing to make a positive difference in the world.