Summer 2024

SPECIAL FEATURE

GRADUATION

Below are some reflections from our Fellows and graduated Bridgers about their time in the Fellowship. We want to wish a hearty congratulations to all of our graduated Seniors, it has been a pleasure knowing each and every one of you, and we cannot wait to see all that you accomplish in the years to come!

AN EMPATHIC LENS AND OPEN EAR

by Angela Liu

I would like to begin by giving my utmost thanks to those who have made my first year of the fellowship incredible: my fellow peers, Tiffany, as well as all the kindness my endeavors here have offered me here. I am honored to stand before everybody to be able to broaden YouthBridge’s impact.

My experience at YouthBridge being a part of the Healthcare Disparities Committee has been nothing short of eye opening. I came in not knowing what I was going to learn, but I ended my first year of the fellowship with a plethora of new knowledge. 

Coming from a low-income and first-generation family, YouthBridge was one of the only programs that seemed to have a truly endearing and genuine nature, one that wanted to foster and mobilize the next generation of leaders. From the moment I got on the bus for the retreat to the moment where I am standing now, I’ve never felt more seen. YouthBridge has taught me to embrace my unique background and utilize it as a beneficial asset rather than hide it. 

At the core of YouthBridge lies the opportunity for growth and progress: rooted in the fundamental values of social justice, equity, and diversity. Being in a city as diverse as New York City, it is especially important to approach life holistically, with an empathetic lens and an open ear for all the different communities nestled in our city. 

It is our responsibility not only to listen to other people’s stories and experiences, but to uplift them and bring awareness to them so that positive change can be made. And that is exactly what YouthBridge has taught me to do. 

Through the healthcare disparities committee, we were able to build a safe space to discuss our society’s issues in our healthcare. I was able to listen to the stories of Americans who came from a multicultural background, and open my ears to a myriad of experiences. I learned that there were obstacles to accessing healthcare, such as poverty, immigration status, and even gender and identity. Healthcare as a whole is a lot more holistic than one may think it is initially; it is not only to maintain a healthy state of body but also rather nurture all other aspects, such as your mental state of being. I was also able to learn about how America’s healthcare system compared to other countries like France, Germany, and Japan. 

I learned so much from everyone, especially because this year’s cohort was so diverse. The multiculturalism present in our committee opened my eyes to issues beyond the scope of my own community.

My favorite memory of being in the committee was learning more about the initiatives that already pre-existed, and were being formed in order to combat these disparities. It’s an issue that’s definitely worth investing in, and I was not only surprised, but more relieved to learn that there were resources out there dedicated to bridging the gap between access to resources and quality of care. I remember reading through the grant applications, and thinking “there’s still kind-hearted people out there who are willing to do this type of work.” 

At the end of an eventful Monday evening, I remember us coming to a conclusion of giving the $500 grant to the BELL Organization, for their period poverty initiative. And I remember being SO incredibly proud of everybody. My work in the healthcare disparities committee has taught me that not only do us youth have the power to make an impact, but it’s up to us to act on it, too.     

YouthBridge has led me to become more confident in voicing my opinions. It’s taught me different methods of expressing myself and helped me become more vocal in my day-to-day life. YouthBridge, unironically, gave me the confidence needed to pursue other passions, opportunities, and hobbies. I’m so grateful to be on this journey with all of you and I can’t wait to see what’s next! 

BROUGHT TOGETHER BY A SHARED PASSION

by Ashley Lo

It is with great excitement that I stand before you today to celebrate our journey through the first year of the YouthBridge Fellowship. This year has been a transformative experience for all of us as we had the unique opportunity to delve deeply into the realms of social justice through particular issues including criminal legal, food, and healthcare justice. 

We are a diverse group of individuals brought together by a shared passion for justice and equality. In the Criminal Justice committee, this passion came in the shape of a desire to understand and address the complex issues within the criminal justice system.

Throughout this year, I learned to tackle a wide range of issues ranging from systemic inequalities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities, to the impact of mass incarceration, and to the urgent need for reform. These are not just abstract concepts; they are realities that affect millions today. We engaged in deep discussions, listened to experts, and perhaps most importantly, listened to each other. Each conversation broadened our understanding and challenged our preconceived notions, which proved to be - by far - the most important lesson: the willingness to allow our previous biases to be challenged. 

Among my favorite memories include the advocacy workshop which allowed us to hone not only our abilities in research, critical thinking, and public speaking, but also in how to craft compelling narratives that highlight the urgent need for change. We became adept at organizing and mobilizing, understanding that real progress requires both passion and strategy.

I will be forever grateful to YouthBridge for equipping me with the knowledge, skills, and passion to make a difference in our communities and beyond. The journey ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but I am confident that each one of us is ready to face those challenges head-on.

And I am glad to announce that at the end of it all, we are able to support the No Rest Until Success Foundation through our Bridging the Gap grant. 

In closing, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who made this fellowship possible—Tiffany, who has been there every step of the way to guide us; the guest speakers, who took the time out of their day to sit and talk with us; the organizers, without whom the program would not be possible; and my fellow Fellows, whom I have had the privilege of learning from. Thank you for believing in us and for providing a platform where we could learn, grow, and make an impact.

Once again, thank you, and congratulations to my first-year peers and graduates of the YouthBridge Fellowship! Here’s to the difference we will make together. 

FINDING MY VOICE

by Ava Wong

My first real memory of YouthBridge is the interview: I was so nervous. I had never done a real interview before and had no idea what to expect from a group interview. My mind felt scattered, my pulse raced, my fingers trembled, and my nerves were getting the better of me. But, after filling out the application and being genuinely interested in the program, I told myself that I just had to try my best, and I joined the interview. 

As we got started, the nerves quickly faded away. The questions and environment were not anywhere near as scary as my worried thoughts had made them out to be, but instead, the interview focused on us getting to know each other through some preliminary questions, a teamwork activity, and then asking us for our ideas and opinions on diversity. I left the interview excited and hoping that I would get accepted. This moment marked the beginning of my journey at YouthBridge: a year of meetings and experiences that pushed me outside my comfort zone as I learned to connect with my peers and make my voice heard, enabling me to find support and community through YouthBridge.

That being said, my nerves didn't quite go away after the interview. Instead, the nerves happened again and again. I was nervous before the first social event - popsicles in the park, the retreat in August, the first committee meeting, and the first skill-building workshop. Every time, my nerves quickly washed away when met with a supportive community, engaging discussion, and collaboration with my peers. 

There was always someone encouraging me to speak my mind and enabling me to participate and connect, even when I felt nervous and unsure. Quickly, it became clear just how much YouthBridge was a supportive, collaborative collage of different voices and backgrounds, of unique ideas and opinions that always invited more people to the table.

Especially within our Food Justice Committee, I have gotten many opportunities to engage, connect, and share my ideas. Through having in-depth discussions about food justice and delving into issues with food insecurity in NYC and the United States, I have examined my own biases and fleshed out my opinions by listening to the stories and ideas of my peers. 

We have spent a lot of time discussing solutions, bemoaning the current situation, and learning and listening to each other's experiences, and how that shapes our relationship to food and food justice, leading to valuable conversations and consistent connection within our committee.

From our first session, where we learned about the systems behind food insecurity through a collaborative exercise, to the middle of the year, where we planted herbs together, to the last session, where we brought food from our cultures and talked about the impact of food in our lives, there have been so many moments where we have gotten the chance to learn from each other's stories and backgrounds as we work to take action and become more involved in creating solutions for issues in our neighborhoods and shared city. 

I was also lucky enough to be part of a group that, through the Bridging the Gap grant, is able to support University Community Social Services in combating food insecurity.

It has truly been an opportunity to learn and push myself outside my comfort zone to form new connections I would have never otherwise made. 

Ultimately, YouthBridge has been a supportive, connective community that has helped me grow and learn. I can say that, for sure, the nerves have completely gone away. Instead, more than ever, I say “yes” to new opportunities and speak up. Even when I feel a little bit nervous or uncomfortable, I am eager to take an active role because I feel supported by YouthBridge and understand the importance of participating with the hopes of creating connections and making change. 

As we go into another year working together as Bridgers, I am excited to build on my skills and keep reaching out of my comfort zone through the program because I have learned so much about building community and how to find my voice through YouthBridge.

AN UNFORGETTABLE YEAR

by Alisha Vohra

I’ve spent my teenage years feeling as though I haven’t immersed myself enough in our city. I’ve felt stuck between home and school and unable to find a ‘third place.’ I sought a way to broaden my viewpoint and meet new people who were passionate about the same issues I was. Thankfully, living in New York means that a wide array of opportunities are at my disposal. I am eternally grateful that YouthBridge has been one of these opportunities that I have been given the chance to participate in.

YouthBridge has had a good impression on me from the start: from the application, the interview, the first meeting, and the retreat. The genuine connections I was able to make with my peers and the program immediately, especially since I am reserved around new people and environments, showed me that I was in for an enjoyable experience. And this certainly reigned true for the rest of the school year. I’ve found myself looking forward to the meetings every month and always anticipating how our time will be spent. Every moment I’ve had in this program has been memorable and will be cherished for life.

YouthBridge has shaped my year and the way I view the world around me. I’ve grown in a plethora of ways: having been exposed to perspectives that I never would have otherwise, becoming educated on ways to be an active member of my community, and having gained a more defined skillset. I’ve developed more open-mindedness, empathy, and confidence. 

The Food Justice Committee has allowed me to observe the intricacies of a system that has an everlasting impact on New York City, income inequality. Examining the causes, examples, and implications of disparities in access to food has given me distinct knowledge on the topic that I can utilize to make a change.

I thank YouthBridge for an unforgettable year of learning, community-building, and advocacy. I have truly changed for the better from this program. I am excited for all that is to come and can only imagine how I will further blossom with YouthBridge over the next year. 

THE VALUE OF COMPASSION, EMPATHY, AND INTEGRITY

by Doris Zheng

Reflecting on my experiences participating in the Criminal Justice Reform Committee, I am reminded of the profound lessons learned and the transformative impact it has had on my understanding of our justice system. Throughout this Fellowship, I was granted a unique perspective into the inner workings of our legal system. From observing actual cases to engaging with other organizations with the same goal, every meeting presents me an opportunity for growth and enlightenment. 

One of the most valuable lessons from this experience is the importance of empathy in the pursuit of justice. Behind every case file, every courtroom, there are real lives at stake. It's easy to become desensitized to the human element when it comes down to legal circumstances. 

However, my time in both the committee and this Fellowship overall, served as a constant reminder that behind every case is a story—a story that deserves to be heard with compassion and understanding. It highlighted the crucial role that trust and cooperation play in maintaining public safety and promoting justice. More importantly, I gained a newfound appreciation for the intricate balance between individuals and community engagement.

Additionally, this Fellowship provided invaluable insights into the complexities of the criminal justice system. From navigating the nuances of constitutional law to understanding the challenges of rehabilitation and reintegration, I was confronted with the multifaceted nature of justice and the ongoing efforts to improve its administration. 

Above all, my participation in this program reaffirmed my commitment to making a meaningful difference in the realm of criminal justice. It ignited a passion within me to advocate for fairness, equality, and accountability within our legal system. Armed with the knowledge and experiences gained, I am eager to embark on a lifelong journey dedicated to promoting justice and serving my community. Things that have stuck with me were the school to prison pipeline stigmas and the jailbreak game which we were in the shoes of an incarcerated person. 

In conclusion, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this program. It has been a transformative experience that has not only deepened my understanding of criminal justice but has also shaped my perspective on the value of compassion, empathy, and integrity in the pursuit of justice. 

IGNITING PASSION

by Jigdal Tsering

My journey with YouthBridge-NY started back in August with the overnight retreat. Initially, I was very quiet because I didn’t know anyone there. During my interview several months prior, I was placed in a group with three other kids who attended really competitive high schools. I remember feeling a bit intimidated because they all seemed so knowledgeable and talented. Because of this, I felt a bit timid about speaking up at the start of the retreat. 

As the retreat unfolded with all the team-building games, activities, and workshops, I began to feel more comfortable. A bunch of these activities revolved around diversity and encouraged me to open up and share my thoughts. Through these interactions with such a diverse group of peers, I realized that everyone has their own unique perspectives and experiences to contribute.

Reflecting on my time with YouthBridge, within the Criminal Justice Reform committee, I am reminded of the lessons and impact it has had on my understanding of our justice system. Every session at YouthBridge has provided me with an opportunity to learn and grow. Especially during our skill-building workshops, we had the opportunity to engage with professionals who shared their expertise and experiences. These conversations were enlightening and helped me challenge and expand my perspective of the legal system.

The Criminal Justice Reform workshops provided me with a thorough understanding of the legal system. We studied and observed the past and present state of mass incarceration, analyzing how specific practices and policies could unfairly affect marginalized communities. Additionally, we learned about systemic inequalities that contribute to the cycle of incarceration, which prevents reintegration into society by formerly incarcerated individuals. Reading cartoons that depicted the injustices of our legal system, along with playing games that illustrated the struggles that incarcerated individuals face both in and out of prison-often due to factors beyond their control-deepened my understanding of the need for empathy and change in the legal system.

Another memorable experience was the Bridging the Gap grant, where all three of our committees would learn about grant-making. We would develop a Request for Proposal, review applications, and decide how to allocate the funds to different community organizations. I really enjoyed how hands-on this project was and, above all, how it emphasized the power of collective action.

My experience here at YouthBridge has ignited a passion within me to continue to advocate for fairness, equality, and justice within our legal system. I’m filled with gratitude, not just for the knowledge and insights I’ve gained about our legal system, but also for the experiences, friendships, and support system that YouthBridge has provided for me. I’d like to once again thank all of you for coming down tonight to celebrate with us. 

LEARNING MORE ABOUT MYSELF

by Ashley Jeonarine and Bridgette Jeonarine

YouthBridge is a wonderful program, enabling teens such as ourselves to learn more about diversity and advocacy. 

Before we joined YouthBridge, we did not have a proper outlet to voice our thoughts and feelings on issues impacting our communities and wider country. From the moment we stepped into the YouthBridge offices, and were greeted by our lovely Program Director, Tiffany, and our Director of Alumni, Will, we knew that this program would be the right fit for us. 

YouthBridge has been able to curate a welcome community for teens to share their experiences and how their mindsets have been shaped through their own backgrounds. It is beyond extraordinary how each and every one of the students in the cohort is so distinctly remarkable, each coming in with their own culture and perspectives. Being able to learn and grow together has been a privilege and I couldn't imagine a better group to go through this program with. 

Within our monthly committee meetings, we tackled issues pertaining to Criminal Justice Reform, Healthcare Disparities, and Food Insecurity, where we were able to learn how these issues directly impacted New York City and what was being done to address them but also the lack of resources and educational opportunities available to marginalized communities leaving them poorly equipped to deal with these challenges that plagued their communities, especially given how the legal system does not exactly always operate in their best interests. 

One of the most memorable skill-building workshops was our past meeting with YouthBridge Board Member, Cecilia Nelson-Hurt, where we were able to hear her speak about her inspiring work in the field of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. She is someone who worked her way up the ranks of her career and in wanting to gain connections with those around her, eventually founds a section of marketing which spoke true to her passions. She gave advice on how we should approach career development as we start college, and how to create our own personal online brand, to be able to connect with professionals in our field of interests in order to gain internships and jobs. 

It is to be said that all of our skill-building workshops have been unique, in the sense that the guest speakers and corresponding activities always manage to keep our group lively and bring out new perspectives. I have seen how not only mine but my peers’ world views have shifted, thanks to the variety of individuals we had the opportunity of learning from, and how every single month, someone new is able to use their voice and watching all of them gain confidence and undoubtedly has been nothing short of uplifting. 

YouthBridge has allowed us to not only become self-aware of what pre existing notions we have held about certain communities but has allowed us room to grow as individuals, where we are able to become more knowledgeable on the types of people in our community and really understand the root cause of division in our society. 

During my next year as a Bridger, I, Bridgette, am looking forward to forming closer relationships to the students I met as Fellows and experiencing more workshops and discussing various topics together. I am hoping to spend the next year at YouthBridge learning more about myself and what I will become in the future as a soon to be college student and adult. 

Being able to meet and converse with professionals who can help me expand my knowledge and understanding of the workforce and my future education is something I am appreciative of this program to let us do. 

This next year is probably gonna be a busy one with us being seniors and applying to college but I, Ashley, am happy that the YouthBridge advisors will be with us to help us get through it. 

THE POWER OF MENTORSHIP AND COMMUNITY

by Allison Ticona

When I first joined YouthBridge, I was eager, yet uncertain about what to expect. Looking back, I can confidently say that this experience has been transformative and enriching. Standing here today, I can tell you all how proud I am of myself of how far I’ve come, because I know that my little self would probably die of shyness right now. 

Before, I saw myself as a competent team player, but lacked the confidence to lead from the front. YouthBridge presented an opportunity to challenge myself and step outside of my comfort zone. Through YouthBridge, I’ve learned that leadership is not just about taking charge; it’s about inspiring others, fostering collaboration, and cultivating a culture of excellence. It’s about leading with empathy, integrity, and authenticity, even when faced with adversity. But perhaps the most valuable lesson that I’ve learned is the power of mentorship and community. Because of YouthBridge, one thing I will always take with me is to include someone in.

The support and guidance I’ve received from my peers and mentors have been invaluable, shaping me into the leader I am today. I have a lot of good memories with YouthBridge, but my favorite one out of all is making new friends. 

I want to give thanks to Tiffany, Karen, and Will for giving me a special opportunity to grow and learn. I also want to thank all my new friends I made through this program, for being there for me, for sharing laughs and memories that I will always cherish.

MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS

by Hallel Abrams Gerber

Coming to YouthBridge for the first time for the initial retreat, I had no idea what to expect. New place. New people. Many people. As an introvert, that can quickly be a recipe for overwhelm, especially in the hectic atmosphere of midtown Manhattan while lugging around a suitcase. But I immediately felt at home. Within minutes, we were talking about schools and other extracurriculars. By that night, we were snapping Polaroid pictures, watching movies, and sharing every minute detail.

Only at YouthBridge does that happen. It is such a warm community, full of people who cheer you on. People who look forward to celebrating you in your entirety, from figuring out small Spanish class assignments to college decisions. That does not happen a lot.

Amidst networking and leadership development, there is no pretense. YouthBridge is a place committed to feedback, collaborative learning, and having fun, emboldened by adults who do the work, show up, and really truly care. 

Will, it’s been amazing interacting with you this past year, and your commitment to every activity that we do (from talking about finance to some impressive improvisational choices) makes the space more fun, nuanced, and resonant. Karen, I have loved getting to learn from you—it’s been a pleasure and an honor. And Tiffany, thank you for being a pillar of this program, helping make YouthBridge a home, and never failing to put me at ease with your supportive questions and welcoming energy. I will miss you all so much. Thank you for making this possible.

From the history of this beautiful city to the intricacies of LinkedIn to effective team bonding strategies, I have learned so much. It’s scary to believe two years have elapsed already. 

I am thrilled to incorporate what I’ve learned about healthcare disparities as I study its effects on cognitive science at Brown and to continue making meaningful connections with the people around me, as this program has enabled me. 

YouthBridge has been an adventure for sure, and one that I can also credit with familiarizing myself with many subway lines as we explored New York. It’s been such a conduit for growth. 

Thank you again. I can’t wait to be a proud alum.

NOTHING SHORT OF EXTRAORDINARY

by Joshua Paz

These past two years have been nothing short of extraordinary. Every step of the way, I’ve witnessed moments of growth, learning, and meaningful connections that have shaped me into the leader I am today.

As a rising junior in high school, I was looking for opportunities to expand my interests and make a positive impact in my community. When I stumbled upon the YouthBridge fellowship, I was immediately struck by the organization's commitment to addressing a wide range of societal issues. The idea of receiving leadership training while engaging in thoughtful discussions on topics ranging from unconscious biases to healthcare disparities was inspiring. 

From the moment I was welcomed into the YouthBridge community, I knew I had found a second home. The warmth and support from the staff, coupled with the passion and dedication of the other Fellows and Bridgers, created an environment where I felt encouraged to explore new ideas, challenge myself, and grow as a leader.

Throughout my time with YouthBridge, I've had the privilege of participating in a wide array of workshops and discussions that have broadened my understanding of pressing societal issues. Each session was an opportunity to delve deeper into topics that mattered to me, from the root causes of healthcare disparities to the impact of unconscious biases on our everyday lives. 

I was particularly invested in our monthly social action committee meetings on healthcare disparities, where we explored the complex reasons behind unequal access to healthcare based on factors such as socioeconomic status, race, and gender. These discussions opened my eyes to the systemic inequalities that exist within our healthcare system and inspired me to take action to address them.

But, the most invaluable aspect of my experience with YouthBridge has been the sense of camaraderie and community that embodies every aspect of the program. From the retreats where I bonded with Fellows and Bridgers to the collaborative projects we undertook together, I found myself surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared my passion for social change. These connections have not only enriched my experience but also strengthened my desire to make a difference in the world.

Thanks in part to my YouthBridge experience, I’m proud to share that the next phase of my academic journey will be at the University of Pennsylvania, where I plan to continue addressing issues in public health and medicine that I was first introduced to at YouthBridge. What might have been an intimidating transition to college now feels like the start of a new adventure. 

YouthBridge has equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to navigate the challenges that lie ahead, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

I want to extend my sincerest gratitude to YouthBridge for believing in me and providing me with the tools and opportunities to realize my potential as a leader. The impact of this program will extend far beyond the two years I was a part of the program, as it shapes not only the lives of its participants like me, but also the communities they serve.

I am honored to have been a part of this incredible journey, and I look forward to carrying its mission forward as I embark on the next chapter of my life.

MAKING THE WORLD HABITABLE AND HUMANE

by Bhargavi Karthikeyan

I am so excited to stand before you today and have the opportunity to reflect on the past two wonderful years at YouthBridge. 

We have spent so much of our lives inside capitalist structures. We go to school from the age of 5, quickly adjusting to the routine of ingesting information at alarming rates and testing, testing, testing, to ensure we meet the criteria for the next stage: the workforce. And then the cycle repeats. 

In this haze, it can be very easy to lose sight of ourselves and our aspirations. We get caught up in the orbit of so many other people and institutions that we forget we’re actually planets of our own. 

So I realized how rare it is to find a place that values not only who you are, but what you can contribute to the world just by being fully present and committed to expanding your perspective. 

From discovering the untold history of Greenwich Village to understanding our internal biases and learning about LGBTQ+ rights through the boat exercise, YouthBridge is so deeply rooted in social justice advocacy, across sectors and populations. During the sessions, we not only learned about these issues, inequities, and gaps, but also about ourselves and how we could relate to the world to make the most impact. 

I am not a New York City native. I am one of two program participants from New Jersey, and my commute to and from the program is just under four hours. Often, I would face a trade-off between coming to YouthBridge or studying for a test, preparing for an event, or running a club meeting. It was not an easy choice, and I always felt like I was struggling to be in two places at once. But after two years of choosing YouthBridge, I can confidently say that I am all the better for it. Having this community to learn from and with has been truly invaluable. 

I’d like to end with a quote by David Orr that I found really inspirational:

“The plain fact is that the planet does not need more successful people. But it does desperately need more peacemakers, healers, restorers, storytellers, and lovers of every kind. It needs people who live well in their places. It needs people of moral courage willing to join the fight to make the world habitable and humane. And these qualities have little to do with success as we have defined it.” 

I hope that while you all, my fellow Bridgers, are out doing the incredible things I know you’re going to do, you think back to YouthBridge, the people we met, the communities we learned about, and the conversations we had, and allow it to guide you, on whatever path you choose to take. I know I definitely will. 

Spring 2024

Spring has sprung! The weather is getting warmer, the leaves are returning to the trees, and our teens want to share what they have been up to at YouthBridge-NY. Over the past few months, we have continued to see engaging dialogue and growth from our teens in our Skillbuilding Workshops and Social Action Committees. Keep reading to hear from our teens about how they relate what they have been learning in our program to their own lives.

LEARNING TO MAKE CHANGE

by Ava Wong

I joined YouthBridge because I wanted to learn how to make a change in my community. I was drawn to the program immediately after I saw it on social media— YouthBridge was a unique opportunity to learn how to advocate for social issues I was passionate about alongside a group of peers my age. In the past, I was most familiar with advocacy through writing articles and opinion pieces on topics that were important to me, like gender-neutral bathrooms or the teen mental health crisis. YouthBridge was a way to expand my skills and learn and grow alongside a diverse, inclusive community.

After starting the program in August, it instantly exceeded my expectations. While I knew that group work would be important, I was pleasantly surprised by how everything was structured around collaborative and community learning. Especially in the Food Justice Committee, with only seven people, we have been able to have in-depth discussions about food insecurity, social justice, and how to make change. Through these experiences, I’ve connected with teenagers from across the city who I would never have met otherwise.

This last month, in March, we had the honor of going to The Workers Circle to learn about community organizing for our monthly skill-building workshop. This meeting was eye-opening to the different ways we can effectively organize our communities to make change. After hearing examples of successful community organizing, we learned the steps and strategies to successfully organize in our communities. After, we thought about issues in our schools and brainstormed ways to organize in our communities to make a change. The idea that stuck with me most was how important it is to pressure the people in power to make a change. I learned that some of the most effective strategies to put pressure on the situation are publicizing issues on social media or student walkouts. Overall, I enjoyed this workshop - it made me consider how I could apply this to my own life and possibly organize it in my school or, more generally, in my community.

Looking ahead, I’m looking forward to more workshops and food justice meetings! Already, I’ve gotten the chance to build connections, learn, and grow from my experience at YouthBridge. I’m excited to continue to learn from both amazing guest speakers and my peers about how to make change!

BUILDING BRIDGES, NOT BARRIERS

by Masha Zaitsev

Understanding and exposing oneself to as many diverse perspectives and opinions as possible on social and political issues is crucial, as this allows us to create informed perspectives. I joined YouthBridge because it was the ideal platform to connect and collaborate with other young leaders, broaden my perspective and experience, and set myself up to create change. I was particularly interested in joining the Food Justice Committee to educate myself and take action against the widespread food inequality in the United States. This is an important issue to me because I believe food is directly correlated to the health and well-being of humans, and access to nutritious food should thus be a right for everyone. From the committee, I have learned how hard it can be for many people to obtain nutritious foods. Many low-income neighborhoods either do not have supermarkets nearby, or very few of them, and usually have more large food corporations in the area. The transportation and time that it takes to get to supermarkets, along with the high prices of many nourishing foods, make them highly inaccessible. This leaves no choice for many but to resort to what is closest and least expensive – a result of the country’s rigged system. Thus, I want to create change around making whole, nourishing foods as attainable as possible. These disparities are rooted very deeply in other factors such as income inequality – and, therefore, can only be changed by first addressing the oppression of our country’s system.

This month’s workshop explained the psychology behind de-escalating and escalating situations. An aspect of this workshop that I appreciated was how it stressed self-awareness. Although we might not be able to control someone else’s reaction, we have control over ours. The leaders of this workshop began by talking to us about what can make a person even more angry versus how to communicate with them in a calm manner. Getting into someone’s personal space, using a raised voice, harsh language, instigating fear, or resorting to violence can all escalate situations. One that is less expected, however, is being accusatory. Although we may sometimes want to get our point across, it is important to remember how we deliver this message. Being accused tends to make people justify themselves and their actions, no matter how severe they may have been. Instead of making them more willing to listen to your point of view, they turn into their shell, only amplifying their feelings of anger or annoyance towards you and the situation. These are all clearly not productive ways to resolve conflicts and usually do not end in a peaceful compromise or solution. However, making a person or group feel safe, heard, and understood allows you and the other party to avoid violence and hopefully have a peaceful interaction. In the workshop, we discussed the physical ways of doing this, such as using calm body language and voice– and just showing general respect to the other group. Another was by going into the conflict with an open mind. Additionally, one of the main takeaways was the tone of voice that you use. The tone– not the words– tends to initiate more conflicts and thus matters more if you are trying to de-escalate a situation.

These takeaways made us more aware of how we might handle ourselves in certain cases. Although it may be hard to put words into action, especially when things get very heated in the moment, discussing these strategies is the first step in that direction. Furthermore, this knowledge is not “common sense” to everyone. Something that may be obvious to you is not necessarily apparent to someone else, and vice versa. This thought process is an example of something that can also cause conflict and miscommunication and only emphasizes the importance of going into conflicts with sympathy and an open mind. You never know why someone may be getting particularly upset or having a particular reaction about something. We have all had different experiences in this life. Hence, violence actually begins to make less sense as you open up your mind to the experiences of the other party and the experiences that you want to have. The workshop's leaders illustrated these points by asking us to reflect on conflicts we have dealt with and to analyze a video of a fight on the NYC subway.

Although this workshop demonstrated the de-escalation and escalation of scenarios on a smaller scale, it applies much more broadly to today's world. From my understanding, one of the reasons there is so much violence in the United States, in particular, is because of how divided it is. Many voices are not heard, and many do not want to listen (especially to opposing points of view). As a result, feelings of anger and frustration arise, and as a consequence, this creates a lot more violence in our society. This is why workshops such as this one are so important. Learning to deal with conflict is key to creating a better future for ourselves and the world.

I look forward to more workshops and meetings where we equip ourselves with even more knowledge, hear from other voices, and work on tangible solutions to help the problems we have been discussing. My committee is currently working on the “Bridging the Gap Grant”, where we give a grant to a non-profit that battles food inequality. I am also looking forward to continue connecting with my peers!

Winter 2024

A lot has happened since our orientation retreat in August, where we welcomed new eleventh grade fellows into the Fellowship and twelfth grade Bridgers into their second year.  Fellows and Bridgers have been busy attending skill-building sessions, committee meetings, hearing from our alumni, and joining together for team building and bonding activities.  Read more below and check out some photo highlights of the year so far!

CONNECTING WITH OTHERS

by Murphy Slater

Connection and open communication is such an important part of a community, especially one that strives to make effective change in the world - just like YouthBridge. Starting right at the beginning of the group interview, I instantly knew that this was a place that intentionally fostered this kind of connection, and I immediately wanted to be a part of it. All throughout the interview process everyone was so warm and welcoming, and that same energy has definitely remained consistent throughout my time as a part of this program. 

Along with being an amazing chance to learn more about inequality that exists in a wide range of situations and environments, YouthBridge provides a unique chance to connect with other high schoolers across the city in meaningful ways. Through YouthBridge, I’ve been able to have conversations with students from Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, which are the three boroughs that I’m really not that familiar with on my own. It’s because of these conversations and interactions that I’ve been able to learn so much more about different aspects of New York that I was previously unaware of. This ability to connect with others through the topics and activities in this program has directly increased my social awareness and ability to communicate effectively with a much wider range of people.

In fact, some of my favorite moments from this program have been based off of this incredible connectivity. Whether I was learning about the raft social experiment and how to make situations equitable for the most people possible, or reading about the sustainability of homegrown food and planting my own seeds with my fellow food justice committee members, it’s been an incredibly engaging and educational experience. 

One thing I’m looking forward to is learning more about the grant writing process, because I’m very excited to be a part of a real solution that can help combat some of the social issues we’ve spent the last few months learning about. I’m so thankful to have gotten a chance to be a part of this program, and I can’t wait to see what’s coming next!

COMBATING INEQUALITIES

by Gabriel Mittler

Hello everyone, my name is Gabriel and I am currently a junior at the Ramaz School. At the start of this year I began YouthBridge. Since September I have had nothing but great experiences and have learned a lot about the inequalities in New York City and the country as a whole. I have met so many amazing people from other schools around New York who I can learn so much from as  everyone has different backgrounds. I applied to YouthBridge at the end of tenth grade for the opportunity to learn and discuss with a diverse group of teenagers about problems that people face, as well as come up with solutions. My school is not diverse at all, so one of the reasons I joined was to hear other perspectives from people with different backgrounds and cultures.

I am a member of the Healthcare Disparities committee. This topic is so important to discuss just from hearing the name itself. So to me, and all the teenagers in the group, discussing and analyzing how there is inequality in such an important aspect of life is very important. Entering the Healthcare Disparities committee, I expected to have intense discussions and debates on why there are inequalities, how the government can fix them, and what we can do as a group of teenegers who live in New York. This is exactly what we have done. A couple of meetings ago, the group was split up into two teams. One was to debate the pros of healthcare in America and the other was the cons. I was on the side of the pros and we went back and forth with the other side for a while; both coming up with great points. I think we won! That was one of my favorite moments so far this year. 

Another one of my favorites was during our skillbuilding workshop before winter break. We had guest speakers come to teach us about the city council and how to utilize them as citizens of the city. I enjoyed the presentation and I learned about what to do when we encounter a problem in the city. We got split up into groups and received a problem idea. Our assignment was to make a short skit about a real life example of the issue and how to address it. The other groups would then have to guess what the problem was. 

We are only halfway through the year and I have already learned so much. I am looking forward to continuing to do projects like this and having debates with the Healthcare Disparities committee. I am excited to hear more amazing guest speakers, continuing to meet new people and discussing why there is inequality in the healthcare system and how to fix it. 

NEW EXPERIENCES SPARK NEWFOUND CURIOSITY

by Bridgette Jeonarine

I joined YouthBridge-NY because I wanted to be in an environment which helped me grow as an individual and further my passions. I was initially drawn to this program because I had an ability to bridge two of my interests — law and advocacy through the Criminal Justice Reform committee. When I discovered that this was a 2 year program, I was even more excited to not only learn valuable skills but to learn alongside like minded individuals and form some tight knit connections. 

Entering the program, I had expected it to be very hands-on and was pleasantly surprised when it was not only very teamwork based but also allowed us to be ourselves and branch out into other groups through the monthly Thursday workshops, which focuses on developing leadership skills rather than our advocacy work, done in smaller groups. 

Undoubtedly, this past January workshop was one of the most interesting yet challenging sessions yet. I feel so honored to have been able to be taught by Ivy Cohen, on communications and marketing, a field I had never really been introduced to before. She made the workshop very interactive, through an activity in which we were required to promote products to certain audiences. While this became very enjoyable, it also required us to think about how to get certain groups intrigued by certain products, through examining their lifestyles and interests. 

Beyond this, I especially appreciated how Ms. Cohen took her time to talk about her own experiences as a student and her non-linear career path. She not only was a great instructor but wanted to form connections with us, making the experience very special. 

As the year progresses, I am eagerly awaiting our annual Bridging the Gap grant, in which the smaller advocacy committees are able to give a grant to a non-profit of our choosing, who focuses on our objectives. This is such a great way to give back to the community as well as further our own committee efforts. I also am looking forward to our next workshop and being around all of the fellows. I feel extremely grateful to be around my peers, share laughs, and support each other. 

YouthBridge has combined many aspects that are rare to find in high school fellowships and I can’t wait to see what we dive into next as well as what is in store for the next round of fellows.

Fall 2023

We have started off the program year with a bang! Beginning with our orientation retreat in August, we welcomed new eleventh grade Fellows into the Fellowship and twelfth grade Bridgers into their second year. Fellows and Bridgers have been busy attending skill-building sessions, committee meetings, hearing from our alumni, and joining together for team building and bonding activities. Read more below and check out some highlights of the season!

A RAW CONNECTION WITH MY NEW PEERS

by Alisha Vohra

YouthBridge-NY is a program I stumbled across several times and kept coming back to during my quest to find extracurricular programs. My passion for social justice, combined with the longevity of the program (something I had never seen before), made me interested in applying. I recall filling out the application late one night, and not thinking much of it, but noting that the questions felt sincere and engaging compared to anything I’ve filled out in a similar format. It is the interview that made me fall in love with the program, and learning about what it has in store made me even more compelled to give it my all. In the weeks after, I would look at the Instagram and website and hope that soon, I could be the one in these pictures and at these meetings. I wholeheartedly hoped to be accepted to YouthBridge, anticipating the distinct connections and learning it could provide for me.

I was thrilled to have received the acceptance. I had no idea what to expect from the retreat, afraid of a new setting. Thankfully, the Popsicles at the Park event let me meet the people I would be with for the 2 days to subtly relieve my fears. The immersive experience began when we stepped foot on the camp. I felt at peace breathing in the air of Copake. The camp life was such an exciting adventure, and I loved everything about it: the comradery of existing together in the bunks, journeying to the dining or alumni hall together (and tripping more times than I’d like to admit), and the outdoor activities. My favorite moment was when after our scheduled hours, all the Fellows and Bridgers got together around the campfire and played games for hours. I remember thinking at that moment that I was having the most fun I’d had in a while, feeling a raw connection with my new peers. 

The most integral aspect of the retreat was the group activity portions. I was expecting your average first-day-of-school icebreakers where my brain would scramble to find something interesting about myself, but this was so different. I felt an added layer of comfort being with like-minded people. The activities were far from basic, as we got to know each other and work together in diverse and creative ways. Suddenly, hours of team building didn’t seem so bad. The game that sticks out to me was YouthBridge Neighborhood, where we were given an allotted set of money to buy materials for building a community. It was soon revealed to be all about privilege. 

I anticipate the best as I build on these foundations created at the retreat to fully immerse myself in the space that is YouthBridge. Wherever my junior and senior year take me, I am eternally grateful to be able to complete the latter half of my high school journey with YouthBridge to support me in my growth.

ADDRESSING THE INJUSTICES IN OUR UNFAIR SOCIETY

by Doris Zheng

Hello to those reading this. My name’s Doris and I'm currently a junior at Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics.

I joined YouthBridge for a chance to be able to engage in discussion with other people my age about a topic we were all interested in, which is criminal justice reform and addressing the injustices in our unfair society. I wanted to leave this program with new knowledge on this topic and what I can do to make a difference. Initially, I had joined just to test out the program but I eventually found it went hand in hand with a long mystery I had tried to solve. Entering this committee, I expected at least 50 people, so I was surprised to see the amount of people in my committee which was 8 people. 

Walking into that very professional building, I felt as though I was taking on a serious job and about to engage in a really beneficial conversation. The main takeaway I had from our last session would be that the American Justice System will continue to be unfair for all of us and the only change I'll be able to make would be taking it career path in the future. Not just the political state, but the social state of our society needs to improve, and we can all come together to ensure that change. We played the Bail Trap game, which gave my group a headache. Every option that was given wasn’t beneficial and drained the bank of the character especially if they were a person of color or a woman. Our experience playing it was annoying as the other character, who was a white, financially stable middle aged-man, had a better chance at getting money back while the young woman of color lost her job, schooling, and a lot of money all at once.

I'm looking forward to more engaging discussions regarding this topic and more social events to get to know my peers better. This program would also look great on my resume regarding programs I've attended to show my teambuilding, and collaborative skills. I can't wait to discover what skills I develop and what new people I'll meet.

WATERING THE SEEDS FOR MY PASSION

by Tiara Naselli

I initially joined YouthBridge because I thought it was a unique opportunity to further my passion for criminal justice through experience and knowledge alongside other teenagers my age. Moreover, I have fortunately been able to take up an internship at the United Nations which has been incredibly eye opening. As enlightening as the experience has been, I have noticed its lack of representation from the teenage perspective, especially for minorities like Latinos. This made me realize that our voices are actually one of the most significant. We essentially are the next generation of workers who will make active strides to better our environments, so finding a community like YouthBridge who helps nurture our ideas and opportunities was incredibly appealing to me. Having the balance of utilizing resources to become active members of society through our committees but also, interacting with fellow adolescents and exchanging opinions that range from our backgrounds is very necessary and powerful.

Entering the program, I was expecting to learn advocacy skills that would translate to being an active member of my community. Building off of my point earlier, there’s a modern plague amongst teenagers where they are confined to think that we cannot always contribute to society because we are not working members, and instead, just kids when the truth couldn’t be further from that. 

One of my YouthBridge highlights is the boat exercise with Don Kao. To describe the activity, us fellows were split up into groups of four and each given 14 cards, depicting a different individual with characteristics ranging from their race, sexuality, health, age and occupation. Given the scenario that all 14 people were in an apocalypse, we could only pick 10 to save. After every group deliberated and picked, we were all met with a shocking surprise at the end of the exercise. Our activity mediator, Don Kao, revealed that he was actually one of the individuals depicted on the 14 cards. That moment was heavily impactful because it removed my mentality from the context of the game to fully process that the human eye is not foolproof. They’re many characteristics that we cannot identify just by looking at people. Thus, the overall activity taught me that it’s our duty as humans to mitigate implicit bias as much as possible by carrying ourselves with unflinching empathy and open mindedness.

As a first generation Latina-American, my identity is heavily forged by my experiences with my heritage and as I navigate spaces where I am a minority, I look forward to speaking up and being a bridge of communication. Moreover, I know that in order for meaningful change to happen, collaboration is a necessity so I would look forward to striking a balance between taking space and giving space in conversations, engaging with the diverse range of perspectives in YouthBridge and making valuable connections. I hope for YouthBridge to water the seeds in my passion for criminal justice reform and allow for me and my fellow companions to have the resources to accomplish our goals collectively, and branch out individually to network amongst the industry and flourish even after the program.

A DEEP APPRECIATION FOR PEOPLE

by Samuel Gusel

Dear YouthBridge Community,

When I first applied to YouthBridge, I didn’t know a lot about the program. I was told about it by my Dad, who said it was a program that brings together and educates teen leaders about building bonds between diverse cultural groups in New York City. Throughout my high school career, and especially due to recent events in the Middle East, I have seen and engaged in disagreements between cultural groups sparked by a difference of perspective. I have seen political conflicts cause friction among family members and friends, and have personally experienced tense conversations and disagreements with friends who are Muslim or of Palestinian background. I’ve heard hurtful things from people close to me and have said hurtful things back. Witnessing how people relate to one another in difficult times has instilled in me a deep appreciation for people who can communicate effectively with each other. This skill has always been valuable to me, and the opportunity for education and experience in these areas made me eager to apply.

In our most recent meeting, we discussed methods for effective advocacy, given the political structure of New York City. This topic is of particular interest to me, because I have personally taken part in advocating for causes I believe in, and am keen to learn how to be more effective in driving change. In eighth grade, I attended a rally to protest inaction around climate change. At that time, I thought that attending protests was the best way to effect change. Through our recent meeting, I learned that there are more direct ways to advocate and take action for the causes I believe in. For example, I learned about the option to speak directly to representatives of our local government. A detail that struck me was the fact that I could join my local neighborhood board at the age of sixteen, which would allow me to have a voice in the governing body of my community. Another method I learned was lobbying, where I can go and meet with government representatives and share with them directly my thoughts and opinions on causes that I believe in. This workshop taught me that advocacy is available to everyone and doesn’t require particular connections or resources. I learned that the most effective methods of advocacy involve speaking directly to individuals who have the ability to effect change, and that the best way to personally effect change is to join a body of governing representatives.  

I look forward to learning and discussing more about building bridges with those who have a different perspective on the world, and the methods we can use to strengthen communication and unity in our communities.