Celebrating Youth Voice

Let's Do This

Youth voice is the practice of centering young people’s identities, interests, needs, and perspectives in decisions that affect their learning and lives.

Centering youth voice supports youth building confidence in themselves and their voice and gives them a sense of agency. Caring adults can put this into practice by being open to learning from young people and practicing proactive listening and actively ask questions and seek insights. It's also important to be authentic rather than patronizing and maintain mutual respect if youth express disagreement. 

Stay Inspired

For more information about Youth Voice Week and resources on engaging young people, visit the website for the Collective for Youth Empowerment in Stem & Society.

You can also find more tips and strategies for honoring youth voice in MENTOR's Becoming a Better Mentor Guide.