The Power of Young People (NYLC)

Service-learning is a powerful instructional strategy that engages young people in meaningful service to their communities while developing their academic, civic, social-emotional, and leadership skills. Join us this week to meet service-learning expert Shira Woolf Cohen, founder of Innovageous, who will share her knowledge and expertise to bring service-learning to your schools, classrooms, and afterschool programs.

Join us as we dive into the world of empowered youth voices with Zeke Jackson, the Executive Director of People for PSEO. Discover the incredible journey of this passionate advocate as he shares his experience leading a youth-led nonprofit that promotes access and opportunities for high school students through the PSEO program. Get inspired by Zeke's insights on amplifying vs. empowering student voices, understanding the challenges of change, and unleashing the potential of young minds to shape a brighter future. Tune in to learn how to turn your ideas into impactful change and embark on a journey of innovation and empowerment.

Have you ever wondered how you can serve your country - from classrooms to the outdoors and everything in between? Join us this week to meet two individuals from ServeMinnesota who are applying new skills as they give back to community, state, and country through public service. Hear their inspiring stories and how they are truly changing the world!

This April students across the globe will join forces to tackle literacy and numeracy loss through a Global Call to Action service-learning project. The project is a partnership between the students and teachers at Study Alternative Center and Missouri State University in Springfield, MO, and St. Paul, MN-based National Youth Leadership Council. Join us this week to meet Study school teacher Elizabeth Nickle and student Jacob Carcione as we discuss the important topic of early childhood education and how students at Study are taking action through service-learning. Tune in and learn how you can get involved in your own community!

Join us on this inspiring episode of The Power of Young People podcast as we dive into the world of sustainability with Yalini Gopalswamy, the visionary founder of EnVi Crochet. Discover how Yalini is weaving art and environmental action together by selling crochet flowers and pet hats to fund tree planting in deforested regions. She shares her personal journey, influenced by her mother and nurtured by her passion for sustainability, to highlight the critical role young people play in tackling climate change.

What does it take to provide water to school communities in Ethiopia, Nicaragua, Haiti, Jodhpur, Kenya, Malawi, and the Navajo Nation of New Mexico? Join us this week to meet sisters Ella and Mabel the founders of Sisters4Water. They are artists and activists devoted to changing the world. Joining them are their partners from H2O for Life, the creators of a service-learning opportunity designed to engage, educate and inspire youth to take action to solve the global water crisis by raising awareness and funds to support implementation of water, sanitation and hygiene education projects for global partner schools. Don't miss this week's inspiring episode!

What does service-learning look like globally? How is it supported and fostered across Latin America and beyond? Join us this week to learn about CLAYSS, an organization that was born to accompany and serve students, educators, and community organizations that develop or want to implement educational solidarity globally.

Join us this week to meet the team of students who want to create a safe and legal places to skate in their community and are doing it while they explore their own passions and put their creativity to action in the classroom. The Lunenburg Skate Park Project is creating educational opportunities by embracing wheeled sports and leveraging the power of community and culture to provide youth with the skils, relationships, and experiences to succeed.

How are young people addressing the challenges created by the pandemic in Latinx communities through service-learning? 4/4

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journeys of young individuals who are making a significant impact on the world. From cultivating mushroom farms to combating food insecurity, leading music therapy initiatives to solving homelessness, these young minds share their stories, challenges, and valuable lessons. Get ready to be motivated, as these remarkable individuals prove that age is just a number when it comes to creating positive change. Tune in to explore the stories of Te’Lario, Grace, and Armando as they unleash their passion and make a difference, one initiative at a time.

Join this week's show to learn how the Clinton Global Initiative University is Inspiring the next generation of student leaders and global innovators. Learn how each year, thousands of undergraduate and graduate students from across the country and around the world apply to participate in CGI U’s year-round community of learning, leadership, and action — beginning with a global meeting where participants, topic experts, and high-profile innovators convene to support and learn from each other.

What happens when you combine social-emotional and leadership development with the performing arts? You get Global Girls, Inc. Join us to hear how students are creating and staging original works that not only entertain, but also unpack, challenge, and heal. Spirited, soulful, and authentic productions evolve from conversations around first-person narratives. As themes emerge, songs, improvisations and dances follow and result in “socially-conscious, participant-driven theatre”.

Join Amy Meuer as she interviews Grace Liu, an extraordinary young leader and advocate for gender equality and sustainable development. As a freshman in High School, Grace utilizes STEAM and innovative solutions to address real-world challenges. She shares her journey as a UN and TEDx speaker, founder of Sharing to Empower, and member of NYLC's Youth Advisory Council. Discover how young people like Grace are making a profound impact and transforming society for the better. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that will empower you to take action and change the world alongside remarkable youth leaders.

On this week's show, we will be joined by service-learning expert Julie Rogers Bascom, the Director of Learning and Leadership for the National Youth Leadership Council, and Bella Wren, college student, and youth change-maker. Join us for a lively discussion on the power of youth voice, opportunities for building shared leadership, and more!

Join us in this episode as we dive into the inspiring work of the non-profit organization, the Opportunity League. We welcome the passionate team from the Opportunity League, including Shenee, Eric, and Amina. Discover how they're harnessing the power of service learning to combat food insecurity in their community and beyond. From innovative initiatives like the Villages Community Marketplace to insightful discussions on food justice, this episode highlights the incredible journey of young change makers working together to create a healthier, more equitable world. Don't miss this enlightening conversation packed with insights and actionable ideas that empower every listener to become a force for positive change.

On September 1, the Born This Way Foundation, co-founded by Lady Gaga and her mother Cynthia Germanotta, launched the #BeKind21 campaign, an invitation for each of us to practice kindness towards ourselves and each other. Join us this week to meet Channel Kindness Advisory Board Members, Keely and Spencer. Hear their inspiring stories and learn how you can not only take the #BeKind21 pledge but create a kinder and braver world. Learn more and join the movement today at https://bornthisway.foundation/bekind21/

Join host Amy Meuers in this episode of The Power of Young People, where she sits down with Spencer, a remarkable sophomore from the Dalton School and the founder of Eloquence Academy. This nonprofit is on a mission to democratize access to academic debate for rural and underserved students, having already made a profound impact on over 1,300 lives.

Hear about Spencer's incredible journey, from navigating the challenges of starting a nonprofit to celebrating the successes of his organization. Together, they delve into the transformative power of debate—how it sharpens public speaking and research skills, nurtures confidence, and fosters critical thinking.

Listen in as they discuss valuable partnerships, the importance of community support, and Spencer's ambitious vision to expand Eloquence Academy’s reach to all 50 states. Whether you're a young leader seeking to ignite change or simply curious about the world of debate, this episode will inspire you to take action for the causes you care about. Tune in and discover how dialogue can drive progress!

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The large political divides in America might feel like an unsolvable problem to some. Not Rachna Shah, our guest this week on “The Power of Young People to Change the World.” Rachna is the founder of Youthquake, a civic engagement program that exposes young people to differing political views and guides them toward creating change. Join us this week to hear how Rachna has turned passion into action and how she empowers other youth in her community.

What does it take to help students succeed academically, empower them to become engaged leaders, and responsible citizens, and foster healthy living? On this week's show, we will learn how Youth Service America is supporting expanded opportunities for students in afterschool programs like those at Kid Power Inc. We will meet 4th grader Keith who will share how he is leading change in his own community in D.C.

In this episode , we are joined by an incredible guest, Jordyn Wright. At just 15 years old, Jordan is the CEO of Passion to Purpose, an initiative fostering financial literacy and entrepreneurship among middle and high school students. Award-winning founder of J Brielle Handmade Goods, an author, and a youth mentor, Jordyn shares her journey from battling eczema to creating a thriving business. Tune in as she discusses the mission of Passion to Purpose, the importance of financial literacy, and the barriers she overcame as a youth entrepreneur. Jordyn's story is not just inspiring; it's a testament to the power of youth voices and their ability to create meaningful change in their communities. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation!

In this inspiring episode we meet with Cash Daniels, also known as the Conservation Kid. Cash co-founded the Clean Up Kids nonprofit, dedicated to engaging youth in environmental action campaigns, speeches, and film screenings to protect our environment and natural resources. Discover how Cash's passion for conservation started, his mission to clean up rivers, and his remarkable achievements, including removing over 25,000 pounds of trash from the Tennessee River. Join us as Cash shares his journey, the strangest things he's found during cleanups, and how he's inspiring young people worldwide to take action and become stewards of the planet. Don't miss this empowering conversation with a young environmental hero who reminds us that kids are 100% of the future.

What happens when a group of informed and engaged youth comes together to tackle state government? Tune in Thursday, March 18 at 5 pm CST /6 pm EST to hear how Bridgemakers, a youth-led grassroots organization, in partnership with the Minnesota-based nonprofit Youthprise, took on the state of Minnesota. Meet change-maker, founder, and Executive Director Walter Cortina as he shares how he is amplifying the voices of youth and reimagining and revitalizing Minnesota communities. Walter will be joined by fellow Bridgemaker and change-maker Cole Stevens who is a relentless entrepreneur with a focus on enriching the lives and communities of those most underserved and underprivileged, and providing opportunities for fulfillment and prosperity to his peers through his work.

In this captivating episode, join us as we delve into the inspiring stories of Nathan, Rafi, and Rishabh, winners of the 2023 Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes. These remarkable individuals are at the forefront of driving positive change in their communities and beyond. Nathan shares his journey with Invasive AI, a groundbreaking app tackling the spread of invasive species. Rafi opens up about Operation Verde, a climate justice initiative addressing urban America's environmental challenges. Meanwhile, Rishabh discusses his pioneering work in neuroscience and its potential impact on society. Get ready to be inspired by the passion and dedication of these young leaders as they discuss their innovative solutions and their vision for a better world.

Join us this week's episode to meet Gaia Colabella, a 10th-grade student at the American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ). Learn how Gaia is using her passion for reading and learning to tackle literacy in her community through her service-learning project, Mobile Library. Be inspired by her passion to Serve. Learn. Change the world!

In this episode, we sit down with Anusha Upadhyayula, a rising senior from San Jose, California, who turned her passion for South Asian dance into a platform for cultural celebration and education. Anusha shares how she founded BollyBE, an organization dedicated to bringing the vibrancy of South Asian culture to her community through dance. Learn how she tackled the lack of representation, honed essential life skills, and inspired others to embrace their cultural heritage. Tune in to hear Anusha's advice for young changemakers on pursuing their passions and staying resilient in the face of challenges!

Join us as we dive into the powerful intersection of youth, mental health, and the therapeutic world of fishing. In this episode, we chat with Vic Tan, the 15-year-old president and co-founder of Fish Hut, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting positive mental health among youth through fishing. Discover how Vic's passion for fishing has turned into a mission to make a difference. Learn about Fish Hut's innovative approach, including fish huts, events, and contests, and explore the profound impact of connecting young people with the outdoors. Get inspired to cast away stress and reel in the benefits of embracing nature. Don't miss this episode full of insights, stories, and the simple joy of fishing!

How do you recognize youth as partners in decision-making? How do you actively build shared leadership that creates space for each person to take ownership and affect change? Join us this week to hear from Youth Advisory Council mentor Isabella Sullivan, as she shares her knowledge and expertise on youth voice and youth/adult partnerships that is the stepping stone to changing the world.

Join us in this inspiring episode of The Power of Young People as we sit down with Milan Varma, the president of Food4Philly—a student-led nonprofit combating food insecurity in Philadelphia and around the country. Milan shares his empowering journey into activism, detailing how Food4Philly encourages young people to make a difference in their communities through organized food distribution events and increased awareness of food waste.

Discover the challenges faced by student-led organizations, from rallying volunteers to securing essential funding, and learn about the invaluable skills Milan has gained through leadership and logistics in the nonprofit world. He also sheds light on the importance of how schools can foster a culture of service among students.

With dreams of continuing his fight against food insecurity, Milan emphasizes the need to support young changemakers in their quest for social impact. Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with insights, motivation, and a call to action for all aspiring changemakers.

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Join us as we dive into the inspiring story of Stephanie Akinfolarin, a 16-year-old Nigerian American student from Long Beach. Stephanie created a video on environmental racism and won second place in a contest thus sparking her journey to create change. We explore her experiences, her nonprofit Young Ocean Advocates, and the importance of youth voices in addressing environmental issues. Discover how Stephanie's passion and determination are making a significant impact on her community and inspiring others to take action.

“Mental Illness Needs to be Destigmatized.” This was the founding idea of M.I.N.D., a service-learning project started by five high school students to address the urgent lack of conversations around mental health in their community. Recently, their impact was duly recognized by a national Youth Leadership in Service-Learning Excellency Award. Join us this week to hear from Tracy, Nomy, Nina, Fabienne, and Joscelynn, as well as their leader, Colleen DiDonato, about their passion for this important topic and their award-winning work on the M.I.N.D. project.

While service-learning has long been recognized for its strengths as an experiential inquiry-based process, it can also be a vehicle for social change. When students integrate diverse community perspectives into their identification of local assets and needs and involve a range of community partners in their actions, service-learning becomes a powerful strategy for anti-racist and culturally responsive teaching. Join host Amy Meuers as she sits down with college student Zahra Ali and educational leaders Sarah Miller and Malik Peer who are tackling issues of equity through Caring and Committed Conversations that drive changes in school culture and practices.

You're never to young to begin your service journey! Join us this week to meet the 4th graders from Eastern Carver County Schools and the teacher who is inspiring them to use their gifts and talents to change the world! From art displays that build community connection to a Native American Objects and Art Exhibit that create opportunities for learning and leadership - this episode is full of ideas, inspiration, and connection!

Join us as we delve into the dynamic journey of Nysa Khanna, the awe-inspiring founder of Pink Portfolio and a UNESCO fellow. With a mission to drive change in the fields of STEM, gender equality, and health, Nysa shares her incredible story of transformation and her relentless pursuit of a better world. From her remarkable projects like combating the pink tax to advocating for gender equality in STEM, her experiences are an inspiring testament to the power of youth leadership and unwavering determination. Tune in for an insightful conversation on resilience, empathy, and the impact of nurturing inclusive communities.

How are young people empowering communities to lead their own way to permanently rise out of poverty? Join us on this week's show to learn how educators and students are taking action through Global Brigades – an international nonprofit that is working systematically in communities across the world to empower volunteers and under-resources communities to resolve global health and economic disparities and inspire all involved to work together towards an equal world.

How do you apply your love of engineering, social entrepreneurship, and environmental sciences to changing the world? Tune in this week to meet Omar, Neil, and Junhyeok - three students from the American International School of Johannesburg who are doing just that.

Join us in this insightful episode of “Power of Young People” as we sit down with Sam Giles, a high school junior and the founder of the Maggie Walker Project. Diving into the pressing need for financial literacy in vulnerable communities, with a spotlight on the African-American experience, Sam shares his personal journey, the motivation behind his nonprofit, and the transformative impact of financial education.
In this episode, discover why financial literacy is not just a skill, but a crucial stepping stone for success and empowerment. From overcoming self-doubt to taking initiative, learn how young leaders like Sam are redefining representation in the financial world and driving meaningful change. This conversation underscores the importance of accessible financial education for all and emphasizes that community engagement can lead to personal and collective growth.
Whether you're a student, educator, or simply curious about financial literacy, this episode will motivate you to empower yourself and others!

Join us this week to hear from Minnesota Secretary of State, Steve Simon and four civically engaged high school students - Abbe, Sawyer, Izzy, and Erin. Discover how civic engagement is about empowerment through education that leads to youth action. That action can be big or small, but the learning comes through doing.

Join us in this inspiring episode as we introduce you to Sunook , the co-founder of Environmental Droners, an organization using technology to save the environment and raise awareness about plastic pollution. From South Korea, where he just delivered a drone, Sunook shares how they use drones to film highly polluted areas, post it on social media, and collaborate globally to make a difference. Learn about their incredible app, the Litter Locator, and how it's empowering citizens worldwide to document litter and take action. Discover the challenges they've faced, the successes they've achieved, and how Sunook passion for helping the environment has transformed his life. Get ready to be inspired to make a positive impact in your community and the world!

What would you do to save the lives of your friends and family? The students at Urbana High School have taken on this challenge through Project Ignition. Project Ignition engages teens across the country to create change. The impact is profound. The experiences are emotional. The lessons are unforgettable. Car crashes remain the number one cause of death for adolescents. Join us this week to hear how high school students Elena and Isaiah are saving lives across their community. Visit Urbanahighschoolprojectignition.weebly.com to learn more!

Join us this week to hear from Isabella Hanson, the creator of a national poetry competition on equality. Learn how she is harnessing the power of youth voices to take action on issues of race and equity around the world.

What can college students do to address homelessness in their communities? The Backpack Project aims to answer this question by not only distributing backpacks in their hometown of Athens, Georgia but by spreading their successful model to other college towns around the country. Join us this week to hear how something as simple as a backpack, filled with essential toiletries, food, clothing, and more, can help those in need and make a lasting difference.

In this episode of The Power of Young People, we chat with Zara, the inspiring young founder of Lemons Learn, a youth-led multinational nonprofit dedicated to empowering adolescent girls through education. Discover how Lemons Learn is breaking barriers, fostering leadership, and making a global impact, one girl at a time. Listen in as Zara discusses the importance of educating girls, the challenges she faced as a young founder, and her vision for a world where every girl has the opportunity to lead. This episode is a powerful testament to the impact of youth leadership and the transformative power of education.

How are young people addressing the challenges created by the pandemic in Latinx communities through service-learning? Join us this week to meet three Camp Fire Poder en Salud teams who are taking up the banner of service to make a positive change in their community! 1/4

In this episode, we dive into the transformative work of the DASH program in Duluth, Minnesota, where youth are celebrating 9/11 Day with NYLC's Youth as Solutions program by stepping into leadership roles and creating a sense of community within their schools.

Join us as we engage with passionate guests from the program, who share their personal journeys navigating the challenges of high school and the vital role mentorship plays in their growth. Discover how DASH cultivates a supportive environment that emphasizes community service, peace building, and the importance of strong partnerships.

Join us this week to meet the founder of Hand4Hand Global, a youth-led organization that connects and inspires the young generation from around the world. He has led over seven service projects to support over 3,000 people. Aditya is also the founder and president of the Artificial Intelligence club at his high school. His mission is to empower students to explore AI and its intersection with a diverse range of applications.

What do you instill in young people that they have the power to change the future? You bring together youth from diverse backgrounds and cultures with the purpose to improve the quality of life in the world by developing skilled, ethical, and sensitive leaders. Join us this week to meet youth leaders from the California Association of Student Councils. Here how they are tackling important issues by engaging in active civic participation.

On this week's show meet Harry Hurst Middle School teacher Barry "the Alligator Man" Guillot and 8th-grade students Laila Gurley and Holly Avocato. The trio is part of The LaBranche Wetland Watchers, a service-learning project which was started many years ago as a way to utilize the beautiful Louisiana wetlands as an outdoor classroom where students could be fully immersed in science while learning about the many values of the wetlands and the many challenges that they face. Hear their inspiring stories of how young people are tackling everything from hurricane destruction to cultural preservation.

Join us as we explore the intersection of finance and technology and how programming can advance financial literacy. Our guest today is Nikita Agrawal, the founder of FinPro World, a student-run organization supported by volunteers who not only teach financial concepts but also demonstrate how to program these concepts and visualize their impact in real life.

Join us this week to hear from two young leaders from Diversify Our Narrative. A youth-led grassroots organization whose mission is to fight to be anti-racist and encourage a productive dialogue on race and identity among our student bodies through the inclusion of racially diverse, anti-racist texts in USA Schools; to work towards racial justice, educational equity, and community power. If you are passionate about education equity, then this episode is one you won't want to miss! Learn more about Diversify Our Narrative at https://www.diversifyournarrative.com/

How are young people addressing the challenges created by the pandemic in Latinx communities through service-learning? 2/4

Join us for an inspiring episode with Mary, a remarkable young person who is making waves in environmental activism. At just 16 years old, Mary was honored as the youngest Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist, and her dedication to the planet is nothing short of extraordinary. From tackling harmful algae blooms in the Great Lakes to championing reforestation with Tree Plenish, Mary's innovative spirit shines through every project she undertakes.

Discover how Mary leverages creativity to address pressing environmental issues, including her role in the Teen Eco Summit and the creation of a vibrant pollinator garden at her school. Whether she’s beekeeping, planting trees, or fighting algae, Mary’s multifaceted approach to environmental advocacy offers valuable insights for young changemakers and educators alike.

There is no job more important than ensuring today's youth are prepared to lead their adult life with spark, confidence, passion, and care! In this episode, we will bring together youth and adults to talk about how to best ignite passion in youth that leads to exploring interests, gaining skills, and mindsets that help them succeed in life! Hear from current 6th grader Ruby Cohen about her creative spark, and Nicodemus Madehdou who's spark in high school led him to his role as CEO of JumpButton Studio. Dr. Jessica Thomas, and our guest host Shira Woolf Cohen, will share how they've worked as educators and moms to fuel the spark that ignites success!

How are young people addressing the challenges created by the pandemic in Latinx communities through service-learning? 3/4

Join us in this inspiring episode as we dive into the world of service learning with Gemfest, a youth-led initiative empowering young leaders. Hear from Riley, Anne, and Lauren as they share their experiences, challenges, and advice for young people and educators looking to make a difference through service learning. Learn how listening, community involvement, and modeling empowerment can create lasting impact and change the world.

"In a world where you can be anything, be kind." We have all heard this saying many times but how do we support the development of kindness, caring, respect in today's young people? Join social-emotional learning expert and Senior Director of Practice with CASEL (the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning) Karen VanAusday along with the students from the Edina 212 Leadership group as we discuss how SEL and service-learning can grow kindness and caring in young people.

Join us this week to hear from the student advisors of New York City's Department of Youth and Community Development. These young leaders have created a Youth Town Hall series to develop the youth agenda that will inform policy, practice, and programs across the city on issues like policing, systemic racism, education equity, and more.

What do sustainable fashion and taking action on gender-based violence have in common? Tune in to this week's show to meet two students from the American International School of Johannesburg, and their teacher, Beatty Sekizenge. We will explore how they are addressing challenges facing their community through the power of service-learning and discuss what ice hockey looks like in South Africa.

In the latest episode of The Power of Young People, we chat with Shreya Prabhu, a high school senior and the visionary founder of the Female Factor podcast. Dive into Shreya's incredible journey as she creates a platform aimed at empowering young women through the art of storytelling.

In this conversation, Shreya opens up about her passion for female empowerment, the vital role of mentorship, and her belief in the transformative power of confidence. With over 20 extraordinary interviews under her belt, she shares insights from her guests, highlights the common theme of overcoming failure, and discusses the challenges that have not only shaped her podcasting journey but have also fueled her personal growth.

Whether you’re a young woman seeking inspiration, someone curious about the podcasting landscape, or simply interested in uplifting voices of change, this episode emphasizes the importance of community support and the impact of sharing our stories. Tune in for a discussion that champions resilience, connection, and the determination to lift each other up!

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In this episode, we introduce Kean Dao, a remarkable youth leader and co-founder of the Environmental Drones and Litter Locator application. Kean shares his journey with Love a Sea Turtle (LAST), a nonprofit organization focused on youth leadership and environmental education. Discover how Kean's passion for cleaning up his community led to the creation of innovative projects using technology and collaboration. Through his experiences, Kean highlights the importance of youth engagement and the power of small actions to make a big difference.

Join us today, where we unravel the inspiring journey of Giuliana, a 13-year-old dynamo creating waves of positivity. We dive deep into the heartwarming tale of G's Giving Gowns, Giuliana's nonprofit revolutionizing pediatric care. From bright hospital gowns to colorful pillows, discover how this young Girl Scout cadette is spreading smiles across 35 states. Be ready to be inspired and learn how even the smallest acts can weave a tapestry of joy in the lives of those fighting pediatric cancer. Tune in and witness the power of young people making a difference!

Would you use something for 15 seconds if you knew it would take it more than 500 years to fully decompose? This is just one of the questions that today's guest will ask you in her quest to combat climate change. Listen in this week to meet Chloe Johnson, a high school environmental activist who is passionate about progress and solving problems for world betterment.

Join us as we dive into the remarkable journey of Lillian Hertel, a 2023 Prudential Emerging Visionary and the Executive Director at Student Stand Up. Discover how Lillian's passion for activism and youth empowerment led her to create a streamlined pathway for young people to engage in their communities. From her experiences in organizing the March for Our Lives to shaping the future through her nonprofit, Lillian shares valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of youth activism. Learn about the crucial skills young leaders need, the importance of genuine youth representation in organizations, and the ways in which we can foster a culture of youth empowerment. Hear firsthand the incredible impact of Student Stand Up and how it's nurturing a generation of change-makers worldwide.

In this episode, we sit down with Purvi Shenoy, the founder and CEO of Global Girls Convergence. At just sixteen years old, Purvi is crafting a TED talk on the paradox of progress, leading initiatives on nature education for low-income children, and addressing the refugee crisis in Asia. Discover how Global Girls Convergence is igniting change, one girl at a time, and tackling the widespread issue of period poverty. Get ready for a conversation filled with passion, empathy, and the unstoppable power of young changemakers.

Join us this week to meet the change-makers from The Community Enrichment Project - a D.C. based nonprofit whose is enhancing the underserved communities of Washington D.C. by creating strong communities. Learn how they are building upon the skills and talents that exist within young people to create change from within.

In this episode, we speak with Narisa, the Head of School, and two students, Ash and MJ, from the Singapore International School of Bangkok. They are members of the Youth, Service, and Leadership Council and discuss the significance of service learning, their ongoing projects, and their individual motivations for assisting others. Ash and MJ also share their personal experiences of facing difficult situations while growing up and how those experiences have influenced them to make a positive impact in the world.

Join us on this inspiring podcast episode as we meet Anthony and Caitlin, members of NYLC's education in action team. Through the Youth as Solutions program, these leaders are taking action on sustainability within their school. They share their journey of reducing waste and providing equitable access to resources like food. Discover how service learning transformed their perspectives, developed essential skills, and built strong community connections. Get inspired by their passion and learn how teamwork and collaboration can make a profound impact on the world. Tune in and be ready to be motivated to make a difference.

In this episode, we speak with Shanzeh Haider and discuss the importance of education, collaboration, and teamwork in leadership, and the power of youth advocacy on a global scale. We also highlight the success of initiatives like Say no to GBV, which has inspired other schools in Ghana and aims to raise awareness of gender-based violence in schools worldwide.

While many educators were embarking on online teaching for the first time this past year, three high school girls in rural Minnesota were already running a virtual platform to strengthen girls intellectually as well as emotionally. Working with “sisters” in the U.S., Afghanistan, India, and Togo. Join this week's show and meet the “Dynamic Champions of Sisterhood” (DCS). A youth-led nonprofit tackling an issue that is both local and global — the emotional empowerment of young women.

Join host Amy Meuers in this episode of the Power of Young People podcast as she sits down with four remarkable young leaders who have been honored with the 2024 Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes. These inspiring individuals are on the frontlines of innovation and change, tackling issues that range from cancer research and environmental sustainability to food security and youth empowerment.

Hear from Ekansh, who is transforming cancer treatment outcomes; Genshu, combining recycling with education through Bottles for College; Esther, championing biodiversity with her initiative Nurture Natives; and Clelia, fighting food insecurity with Hands Together to Feed Chicago. Together, their stories illuminate the power of mentorship, community involvement, and the indomitable spirit of young people to effect real change.

Discover how persistence, creativity, and small actionable steps can lead to significant community transformations. Get inspired to take action and join a new wave of changemakers who are proving that anyone can make a difference—no matter their age!

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Join us this week to meet the student creators of Munch Bunch - a youth-led service-learning experience to address mental health at Heritage Hall, Oklahoma City, OK. These young leaders are creating inclusive spaces and building community for students, teachers, and administrators,

In this inspiring episode of "The Power of Young People," we welcome Maren, a passionate student from Roosevelt High School and a member of the Minnesota Civics Crew, a group funded by NYLC's Youth as Solutions program. With the upcoming elections generating buzz, Maren shares her journey into civic engagement, sparked by a simple classroom poster encouraging students to become election judges. From organizing voting registration events with the League of Women Voters to fostering conversations around diverse electoral participation, Maren highlights the importance of education and accessibility in the voting process. Tune in as she discusses the challenges and triumphs she has faced while working to engage young voters, emphasizing the significance of community connections and collaborative efforts in driving change.

How can you impact education equity in your school and community? You inspire students to discover the magic of STEM while introducing them to concepts, ideas, and a new way of thinking. At STEM Kids, their goal is to mentor and support students of color and give them the tools to succeed in the future as the next generation of visionaries and innovators.

In this episode of "The Power of Young People," we have the privilege of speaking with Ratna Singh, a remarkable young author and environmentalist from Delhi, India. She is the founder of Earth Safety Valve, an international youth-led organization that has educated 50,000 people worldwide and mobilized young minds from 15 countries and five continents. Ratna's journey, from being recognized as the youngest research paper author to receiving prestigious awards, such as The Kalam Ratna Award and the Indian Inspiration Award, is truly inspirational. Join us as we dive into her mission of bridging the climate conversation gap and empowering the next generation to take action for a sustainable future. Ratna's passion, dedication, and commitment to environmental causes serve as a beacon of hope for us all.

Stay tuned for a thought-provoking discussion on climate change, her unique approach using a climate comic book, and the important message that all of us, as Earthlings, have a role to play in saving our planet.

Join us this week to meet the student team from DROP - Different Races Organizing Peace! This student-led equity club is educating themselves and others on racial equity. Hear about their presentation to the Anoka Hennepin School Board and the impact they are having in their school and community.

Join us as we delve into the power of young leaders with special guest Rachel Labi. Rachel, the co-founder of BFF Building Financial Freedom, is not your average finance student at Purdue University. At the age of 17, she founded a global financial literacy organization, aiming to make a significant impact. Tune in to learn about Rachel's passion for financial literacy and anti-trafficking advocacy, the challenges she faced as a young entrepreneur, and the invaluable lessons she's learned along the way. Discover how Rachel is using her skills to empower others and why she believes that everyone has something to offer for the betterment of our world. Get ready for a conversation that will inspire and motivate you to take action!

How can service-learning experiences support students' understanding of different perspectives? How can it lead them to develop genuine empathy and honest compassion? Join us this week to meet amazing student leaders from the American International School in Johannesburg and hear their inspiring stories of contribution and passion.

What would you do to save the lives of your friends and family? The students at Urbana High School have taken on this challenge through Project Ignition. Project Ignition engages teens across the country to create change. The impact is profound. The experiences are emotional. The lessons are unforgettable. Car crashes remain the number one cause of death for adolescents. Join us this week to hear how high school students Francky and Park along with their advisory Judy Weber Jones are saving lives across their community. Visit Urbanahighschoolprojectignition.weebly.com to learn more!

We have all heard the saying “teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” But how can we apply this lesson to empower youth for a lifetime? EarthForce is an organization engaging young people as active citizens who improve the environment and their communities now and in the future. Join us this week with EarthForce President, Vince Meldrum, and youth leaders Bridget, Ben, and Veronica to hear how they are mobilizing the power of young people to address one of the most pressing issues that our world is facing.

Join us as we engage in an enlightening conversation with Allie, Nema, Aiden, and Itzel – the trailblazing minds behind Youth in Action. Discover what started this initiative, navigate the hurdles they've overcome, and witness the profound impact they've left in their wake. Uncover firsthand narratives detailing their journey to amplify youth voices, cultivate leadership, and ignite action on critical matters. This episode is a beacon of guidance for empowering the next generation of catalysts for change. If you're a young individual seeking to make your mark or an adult yearning to bolster and resonate with youthful voices, this discussion is a wellspring of insights and counsel for co-creating a brighter tomorrow.

Join us for an enlightening episode with Jahnavi Rao, the president and founder of New Voters, a youth-led organization dedicated to comprehensive civic engagement for young people across America. Jahnavi shares her personal story of how the 2016 election sparked her passion for political engagement and led her to create an organization that inspires and equips high school students to register and vote. Listeners will gain insights into the barriers young people face in the voting process and discover the vital role research and grassroots organization play in dismantling these challenges.

Join Abby Wolfe, Director of School Programs, and youth leaders Josh and David in a compelling episode shedding light on their journeys battling the global water crisis through the Thirst Project. Abby shares her transformation from high school awareness to full-time commitment. Josh unveils how a biology project led him to spearhead a campaign in Pennsylvania, while David discusses their unique approaches in water-challenged Arizona.

Explore the Thirst Project's mission to end the global water crisis by cultivating a socially conscious generation. Learn about students worldwide actively participating, organizing events, and fundraising for clean water. Discover the skills and personal growth fostered through Thirst Project involvement.

The team shares impactful stories, emphasizing empathy and selflessness, and reveals how simple actions, like starting clubs or creating TikToks, make a tangible difference. In the episode's close, listeners are invited to join the cause, underlining that anyone can contribute, regardless of age or background. Don't miss this empowering episode urging us all to be part of the solution!

It’s easy to lose steam mid-year. Reflective practice can get lost in the shuffle of programming. Join in as we learn from  quickly revisit how important reflecting is, then dive into a couple of new tools to spice up the mid-season slump.

Join us this week as we celebrate Lights On Afterschool with students from the Propel Student Action Team from the Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool Youth Development Network. The Propel Action Team is a scholar centered high school youth leadership group that meets regularly throughout the school year to discuss, strategize and address issues affecting scholars both in their schools and communities. Scholars learn the importance of civic participation in making change. They also learn about how to advocate for themselves and their interests. The team are champions for service-learning across their state.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Power of Young People, Amy and Kaleb dive deep into the significance of Civic Learning Week and the broader landscape of civic engagement. Hear about Kaleb's compelling personal journey into politics and civic participation, underscoring the necessity of unwavering dedication. Together, they illuminate the pivotal role of education in nurturing active citizenship and the profound impact of an informed electorate on our collective decision-making. Delving into pressing issues, they confront the looming threats to democracy, including disinformation and voter suppression, while advocating for robust civic education as a bulwark against misinformation. With a stirring call to action, Amy and Kaleb inspire listeners to take an active stance in their communities and exercise their fundamental right to vote. Tune in to ignite your passion for civic involvement and drive positive change in society.

In this episode, we speak with Gui, Zern, Karan, and Miya from the Singapore International School of Bangkok. They are members of the Youth, Service, and Leadership Council and discuss the significance of service learning, their ongoing projects, and their individual motivations for assisting others. They also share their personal experiences while growing up and how those experiences have influenced them to make a positive impact in the world.

You can learn more about them here: SISB Thailand

Join us this week to talk about the many concerns facing today's youth and how the youth leaders at Youth Matter are taking action for the hundreds youth most at risk of not reaching their full potential, especially youth in low-income communities. Hear how they are fighting to ensure that every young person knows that someone cares about them because they matter — youth matter.

What does it take to change the world? Join us this week to meet Lina Al-Tarawneh, the founder of Green Mangroves and speaker at the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference in Milan, Italy. Joining Lena is a global educator and Qatar Foundation International education team member, Jennifer Geist. Jennifer will share her insights into service-learning and creating spaces for youth to share their voices and take action on their passions.

What happens when you equip students to take action on issues that impact their education? This week's show will explore the power of youth voice and its impact on creating meaningful change in schools and communities. Guest Merrit Jones, Senior Advisor at Student Voice will share their recommendation to the newly appointed Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona on how student voice can change the face of education.

Join us this week to meet the young leaders behind Generation Ratify, a youth-led movement to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment and advance gender equality in the United States. Hear how young people are creating an intersectional feminist revolution that empowers and advocates for the full equality of young women, non-conforming, non-binary, femme, and Queer folx.

This week we meet two young leaders from Campfire's National Youth Advisory Cabinet. Learn how they are using their voices in Camp Fire’s Movement to address everything from policy to decision making. Join us to learn how this national nonprofit is supporting young people to shape the world by providing them the opportunity to find their spark, lift their voice, and discover who they are.

Join us as we delve into the incredible stories of individuals who have created a lasting legacy through their practice of service learning. In each episode, we'll introduce you to remarkable individuals like Dan Sokolovic, a retired food service executive, husband, and father. Discover how Dan has impacted the lives of young people and empowered them to make a difference. Through Love a Sea Turtle, we'll explore the power of service, leadership, and the true meaning of leaving a lasting legacy.

The NOMOS Project is a student-led nonprofit organization that aims to provide financial literacy education to young students. The inspirational co-founders, Sindhuja, Aarya, and Aarav, started the project to explore and gain experience in the world of business and finance. Hear about their work with different elementary and after-school education programs, helping young people understand basic money management skills through interactive activities!

Chanting "End Jim Crow" and "Education is a right, not just for the rich and white," roughly 300 students walked out of one of New York City's most prestigious public schools to protest its admissions policies and demand desegregation. Join us for an in-depth interview with one of the youth leaders who is tackling the public school system policies, Beacon High School student Carmen Lopez Villamil.

Ocean Heroes New Orleans has been working hard towards plastic pollution solutions in their community! OHNOLA is a group of local students aged 10-18 who came together in the Spring of 2018 and have made significant strides in removing plastics from their community. Join us this week to meet two members of the Ocean Heroes team and hear their stories of how they are changing the world, one piece of plastic at a time.

In this inspiring episode of the Power of Young People podcast, we meet with three more winners of the 2024 Gloria Baron Prize for Young Heroes: Varin, Elizabeth, and Cash. These passionate young activists are on a mission to combat climate change, champion sustainability, and inspire their peers through community service and innovative solutions.

Listen in as they share their extraordinary journeys—from Cash's astounding achievement of removing 45,000 pounds of trash from rivers, to Elizabeth's groundbreaking use of environmental DNA for conservation, and Varin's creation of AirCat to efficiently capture carbon dioxide. This conversation explores the challenges they’ve faced, the leadership skills they've developed, and the vital importance of youth engagement in driving impactful environmental initiatives.

This episode emphasizes that no matter how small, every action counts, and that everyone has a unique passion that can spark change. Tune in to discover how collaboration, persistence, and youthful creativity are paving the way for a sustainable future. Get ready to be inspired and empowered to make a difference in your community!

Learn more about all of the 2024 Gloria Barron Prize winners at barronprize.org.

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What happens when you integrate the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals and service-learning into your classroom? Tune in this week to hear how teacher Serena Comegys of the EDGE Global Microschool is bringing real-world learning into her classroom through the Squad's Abroad, Global Brigades' high school program. Meet the program's President, Erik Werner and two inspiring students who are passionate about making a positive change in the world.

Each year the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes honors 25 outstanding young leaders who have made a significant positive impact on people, their communities, and the environment. Join us in this two-part series were we celebrate and learn from these amazing youth leaders who are truly changing the world. Visit https://barronprize.org/ to meet all the young heroes.

The recent pandemic has only amplified the existing academic challenges faced by marginalized groups in America. This week’s guest, Daxton Gutekunst, believes there is no one better to help young people in need than other young people. Listen now to hear how Daxton’s organization, KidByKid, is addressing educational disparities and bridging divides between youth in his community through free tutoring services.

What will it take to create a more just and peaceful world? Join us this week as we explore youth leadership and service-learning with PeaceJam. Discover how young people are affecting change in every corner of the world and how each of us has the ability to unleash our inner Peace Laureate.

Each year the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes honors 25 outstanding young leaders who have made a significant positive impact on people, their communities, and the environment. Join us in this two-part series were we celebrate and learn from these amazing youth leaders who are truly changing the world. Visit https://barronprize.org/ to meet all the young heroes.