12: Ecosystem of Youth Leadership Development

I believe people genuinely care about supporting young people. However, communities often struggle to find effective ways to engage them. In discussions, adults gather around tables, asking, “What do the kids want?” I've attended several of these meetings, and perhaps you have too, where board members who are also parents and relatives share insights based on their own experiences with youth. Common phrases include, “My teen is really into this social media platform,” or “My nieces are too busy with sports.” While these observations come from a place of care, they can reinforce assumptions about teenagers that may not reflect the broader reality of youth in the community. This approach tends to prioritize programs for those already connected to the privileges and resources present in the room, often neglecting other networks within the community. As a result, well-meaning practitioners may unconsciously design initiatives based on these limited perspectives. While some programs may resonate with certain students, they frequently overlook the diverse needs and interests of all young people. This can perpetuate community biases and exclusivity, undermining teens' sense of identity and agency.