Our Mission

Join Us In The Fight For a Better Future For Our Community.

We equip youth with the tools, networks, and know-how to navigate complex policy landscapes and enact meaningful reforms.

Provide a platform for youth to shape legislation
Host nationally recognized events
Bridge the gap between youth and government
Direct national advocacy efforts
Movements

Our Goals

Training

Education

Educating voters and improving political literacy amongst Americans.

Activism

Working with youth to propel change using their voices.

Leadership

Helping students learn how to lead and change their communities.

Equality

Working with national and state legislators to promote equitable, fair legislation.

Impact

Wanting to ensure a better future for the next generation.

Transparency

Facilitating transparency between government and youth.

Contribute

Join us at AYA events. Make an Impact.

Get hands on experience in policy with mentorship from policymakers, industry professionals, and talented advocates.

Change We Can Believe In

We Can Make Something Great Together.

Civic engagement / responsibility

Our events, training programs, and advocacy efforts are designed to spark a generational shift toward more inclusive, responsive governance.

Start the spark. Be the Change.

We are a hub for young innovators, amplifying their ideas, elevating their voices, and equipping them with the resources to turn their visions into reality.

100% Youth Led

We are a catalyst for youth-led movements, empowering the next generation to take ownership of the political process.

For all Youth. Always.

From the statehouse to the nation's capital, the American Youth Association is mobilizing youth to drive systemic change, in all 50 states.

FAQ

Answers to your questions.

How does your platform differ from others?
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The American Youth Association's platform is distinguished by its laser-focus on elevating youth voices, its commitment to nonpartisan, evidence-based policymaking, and its comprehensive approach to building the next generation of civic leaders through immersive training, collaborative initiatives, and direct advocacy.

What types of events does AYA offer?
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AYA provides a range of immersive programs, including policy trainings, advocacy workshops, legislative shadowing opportunities, and collaborative initiatives that equip youth with the knowledge and tools to drive real-world impact.

How can students get involved with AYA?
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High school students can get involved with AYA by attending events, applying for state/national offices, and by contributing to policy initiatives and volunteering for grassroos advocacy efforts.

What is the recruitment process for AYA state and national officers?
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Online applications are available for any high school student with full-time residence in the United States.

Applicants will be evaluated based on their policy experience, prior involvement in our programs, academic honors, and essay responses.

The People That Power Our Work

Featured Team Members

Abigail Wan
National Director of Development and Training
Saasthra Bojja
National Press Secretary
Karolina Minasyan
Director of State Operations
Yeeun Park
Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs
Xinyi Li
Sponsorship and Donor Coordinator
Caleb Kurlantzick
Policy Research Director
News & Articles

Articles

The Modern Epidemic

Explore the dangerous truths behind one of the biggest trends in the youth

Read More
Emma Guo
School Security: Is It Really Safe?

Are our children safe while they study?

Read More
Seth Cohen
Why are we so obsessed with STEM?

Explore why we are so obsessed with what seems to be the future of the American economy or what could alter it in ways we have never seen.

Read More
Ankita Jaikumar
The Modern Epidemic: Vaping

A trend turning into a threat.

Read More
Jenya Narang