During the the Mozilla Learning community call this month, we had the opportunity to chat with Rachel Roberson from KQED, Andrew Brennen from Student Voice, and Ariam Mogos from Global Kids, to learn more about their programs and campaigns that promote youth civic engagement. Specifically, they shared how they support youth to participate in current events and issues in their communities, and how web literacy and 21st Century skills can enhance opportunities for young people to be more active agents of change.

Here is an overview of each of the programs/campaigns shared by our guests:
Letters to the Next President 2.0 is a campaign led by KQED and National Writing Project to engage and connect young people, aged 13–18, as they research, write, and make media to voice their opinions on issues that matter to them in the coming election. Letters can take the form of collages, photos, videos, spoken word, infographics – any form youth wish to express themselves. The site also features robust resources for educators, from videos to curriculum.
Student Voice inspires and empowers students to take charge of their education by adding their voice to educational decision-making. During this important political season in the U.S., election rhetoric is making its way into classrooms and it’s more important than ever to empower youth in navigating these difficult and relevant topics.
Student Voice publishes an inaugural State of Schools Report, a comprehensive document that evaluates the current climate of America’s schools from the student perspective. Contributions from students are being accepted – get involved by sharing your experience, story, network, or social media presence to the cause by contributing here.
Young Innovators Squad brings together high school students interested in hands-on making by providing opportunities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) and civic engagement across New York City. The program, which was fully co-designed with participating youth, is led by Global Kids and support by Mozilla Hive NYC.
Watch the recording to learn more. If you know of other programs, opportunities or resources that help empower youth to participate in civic discussion, share them with us on our forum.