Youth Leadership
At WAESN, youth lead. Our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) has equal voting rights with the Executive Board, ensuring young people drive every decision. We support their growth as advocates, organizers, and public voices, building lasting pipelines for youth leadership in Ethnic Studies and racial justice.
Building Youth Power
WAESN invests in young leaders who shape our movement today and tomorrow. From co-governance through the YAB to mentorship and public storytelling, youth are at the center of every victory and every vision for Ethnic Studies.
Youth Advisory Board
Apply to Join
Youth Power
WAESN is co-governed by our YAB, whose members hold equal voting rights with the Executive Board. We don’t stop at youth voice. We cultivate youth power.
We grow youth leaders through mentorship, training, and real decision-making power. New members bring fresh energy, vision, and commitment to Ethnic Studies.
From testifying at the legislature to publishing op-eds, WAESN youth are shaping public conversation and policy. Their stories fuel the movement.
Stop Performative Politics, Recenter Youth of Color, and Invest in Ethnic Studies Now
Why We Need Black Lives Matter at School in 2021 — and How to Get Involved
In Their Own Words
Current and former YAB members speak with clarity about what youth leadership means, the barriers they face, and the futures they are building with WAESN.
Sal
“WAESN gave me community with other students, educators, and mentors so that I didn’t feel alone anymore. Youth voice means input; youth leadership means having the agency to act. That’s only possible with strong facilitators who guide and support us.”
Alexis
(pictured with fellow YAB member, Priyanka on right)
“Lasting change requires building infrastructure for younger leaders. WAESN creates space for youth to flourish and brings together passionate people who get things done. Real youth leadership isn’t about being thrown in a room and told to lead. It’s about true partnership between youth and adults.”
Ainslie
“The biggest barrier to youth leadership is the lack of organized spaces where young people can step into leadership roles.”
Xitlalli
“Adults often dismiss us for lacking life experience, but youth leadership is more sustainable. We make decisions with our own futures in mind—something older generations can’t always do.”
Support Youth Leaders
WAESN’s Youth Advisory Board holds equal power in shaping our movement. Your support ensures young people have the mentorship, resources, and platform to lead Ethnic Studies and racial justice advocacy for generations to come.