I want to change the narrative of what people think of me, so I wanted to tell a story about my life. I want to bring awareness to the southwest side of the city and to let people know that this community isn’t lazy and violent. We’re hopeful, we’re striving to live our lives, to have families, to settle down. We’re good people but because of what’s happening around us, it’s really challenging.
It’s that time of year! Make sure to add fresh yli gear to your list!
Pick one up for yourself and don’t forget one for a dope youth leader in your life. Knowing that all proceeds go to making sure that young people have a voice just makes each purchase that much sweeter. Click the link for options – from Stranger Things to Classic Tees – but make sure to get yours before they’re gone!
When I had a chance to reevaluate what I really wanted to do with my life, I realized that it was not just about money, but about doing something you love every day.
For the farm workers living in the Eastern Coachella Valley, their jobs rely on their ability to not only stand the heat, but work strenuously while the blazing sun beats on their backs. For women like Maria E. though, the scorching heat is not the most dangerous part of her job.
Aaron Smith, a 17-year-old highschooler from Atwater, brings her identity in front of the camera despite controversy surrounding gender norms in the Central Valley.
I eventually gained the confidence to express my character and feelings during a major campaign to reform Marin County’s youth criminal justice system…I was apprehensive about speaking up, but the issue was so important that I felt compelled to take the risk of becoming more visible. It was the first time I was presented with a situation in which I could see myself.
I remember feeling the thrill of being pioneers in community change work. At that time, folks were not really talking about youth leadership in a community context.
When I started working at yli’s Marin office, I was wholly unprepared to work in a predominantly white community…Looking back, I believe that it was a sign from the universe – a push for me to let go of my trauma as my identity and purpose and to redefine what my leadership looks like.
