Autonomous Youth Council

The Autonomous Youth Council includes a 4-week in-person training academy and year-long opportunities for youth to join key decision-making bodies across Milwaukee, including boards and advisory councils. The program launched with a 4-week in-person training academy in July of 2024, with training content and structure shaped through youth and community feedback. It places 2–5 council members at each partner organization as part of its year-long placements on boards and advisory councils across Milwaukee.

• Schedule: 4-week in-person training academy in July of 2024

The Autonomous Youth Council aims to recruit, train and position local youth within decision-making bodies, including boards and leadership tables across Milwaukee, as well as more informal structures. It focuses on making youth a dynamic force in decision-making and on elevating youth leadership so that youth voices shape critical decisions. Youth Forward MKE is a diverse local partnership focused on improving the success trajectory of Black male youth, and Youth Forward MKE is an initiative powered by Milwaukee Succeeds. The Autonomous Youth Council places 2–5 council members at each organization, including partners such as Data You Can Use and Arts at Large. The contact for the program is Maria Hamidu, Youth Forward MKE Project Manager.

Last updated March 1, 2026.