Youth Leadership Institute

Youth Leadership Institute offers Justice Grows Here, a youth-led environmental justice and leadership program. The program includes hands-on learning, guest speakers, and a youth-designed civic engagement campaign. Participants receive a $500 scholarship upon completion.

Programs

• Justice Grows Here — 14-18, high school students in San Francisco; open to Black, Indigenous and youth of color · weekly after school, from September to April · Youth-led environmental justice and leadership program with hands-on learning, guest speakers, and a youth-designed civic engagement campaign; participants receive a $500 scholarship upon completion.

At a glance

• Ages: 14–18 years old

About the provider

Youth Leadership Institute says it builds communities where young people and their adult allies come together to create positive community change that promotes social justice and racial equity. Youth Leadership Institute also partnered with the Hayward Youth Conference to offer a workshop on practicing anti-racist leadership.

Participants must commit to weekly after-school sessions. The program runs from September 2026 – May 20267.

What families say

“If it wasn't for yli I wouldn't have become so passionate about city planning and the intersections of the built environment, class, race, gender, and life expectancy. I had so much guidance from leaders who truly cared about me and wanted to teach me to become a great writer and advocate for my community.” — Karla Martinez, Alumni

“I grew into a more interdependent, team-oriented, and leader-full mentality during my years at yli.” — Erika Céspedes, Former Staff

“yli changed my life by creating the “place” where I was able to USE MY VOICE and develop the skills to create systems change.” — Fahad Qurashi, Chief Program Officer

Last updated October 20, 2026.