We create spaces that challenge youth to amplify their voices as creators of societal change.
Check out our work in 2021-2022
2021-2022
by the Numbers
San Francisco High Schools
Workshops in partnership with 4 SF organizations
Young people participating in-school arts education
Audience members attended Youth Speaks events in-person
Audience members attended Youth Speaks events online
In stipends provided to youth artists
“For me, Youth Speaks changed everything. I first got involved in 2017 as a high school freshman. I saw a teen poetry slam video and knew I wanted to participate. Being involved has been a catalyst for everything I’ve done since--from hands on creative growth and equally valuable, performance opportunities. I realized that I could be compensated for my art and that I could take it somewhere.
Youth Speaks teaches young people to trust themselves and trust the value of their own voices. Right now, so many young people feel rightfully frustrated in the way the world is headed. Youth Speaks give young people a platform, uncensored, to say whatever they feel.”
SAMUEL GETACHEW
Youth Speaks, Teen Poetry Slam Champion 2019 Oakland Youth Poet Laureate
The Next Generation Speaks for Itself
According to a 2021
UC Berkeley Study Students
Look forward to Youth Speaks arts education programs even when they aren’t excited about other classes at their schools.
Expressed increased confidence in sharing their voice and standing up for what is right.
Reported an increase in plans to participate in civic engagement activities after completing Youth Speaks programming.
of audience members reported a positive effect on their mental health
of audience members reported feeling more connected to their community
of audience members reported feeling more inspired to write or create art