Youth policy competition
Congratulations to Salma Baksh
Winner of the Youth Policy Competition!
Hear from our finalists!
The Youth Policy competition gave me the opportunity to make feasible change in my community on issues I'm passionate about. I felt supported during my journey due to the various resources and workshops I was provided. As a finalist, I can genuinely see my ideas move forward and am excited to build on the network that's been given to me.
Salma B.
Policy Proposal on New York City Libraries
I really enjoyed writing and presenting on policy for the Futures Institute Youth Policy competition. I looked into the issue of equitable funding in education for my policy proposal and learned a lot about feasible steps that states can take to lessen disparities between school district funding. I’m so grateful to the Institute for this opportunity to share and develop ideas about issues like this that I am passionate about.
Sebastian L.
Policy Proposal on Equitably Funding Education
Participating in the competition was a genuine learning experience for me. Although I was the one proposing a policy, the feedback I received from the judges on the panel and the conversations I had with the Youth Power Project and Futures Institute staff, taught me how to create a comprehensive policy that has the potential to make a long-lasting impact. I am deeply grateful to the creators of this competition. Through this opportunity, I gained invaluable insights into the policy landscape, which has significantly broadened my understanding and perspective.
Mona Cho
Policy Proposal on Safety in Schools
This competition supports my ability to pursue legal education to advance human rights and justice for survivors. I hope to work collaboratively with human rights lawyers and scholars nationwide and internationally to address complex human rights, youth rights, and justice for survivors of violence. Participating in this competition helped prepare me for the necessary skills I need to articulate my client's needs, argue on their behalf on findings grounded in facts and public policy.
Emma T.
Policy Proposal on Protecting Children
See the application
Download the application
Learn about the process & show interest
Interest Form
Thank you for your interest in the Futures Agenda Youth Policy Competition! This interest form is the first step toward submitting your innovative policy proposal. Purpose of the Interest Form: Completing this form helps us understand your interests and informs you about important updates and resources for the competition.About the Competition:
The Futures Institute and the Youth Power Project seek innovative and creative policy proposals from youth aged 14 – 23 in the United States. We are looking for policy solutions created by young people that tackle youth opportunity, racial justice, community safety, education, housing, youth mental health, and any other issues centered in our Futures Agenda — or any other issue deeply affecting your life today.
Applicants have the chance to win one of five(5) $500 cash prizes. Finalists will also receive one-on-one training and support to refine their proposals before presenting to a panel of esteemed guest judges.
Next Steps:
The sessions are tailored for young people aged 14 to 23 across the United States who are eager to learn how to submit their innovative policy proposals.
- Complete the Interest Form: Provide us with your basic information and areas of interest.
- Receive Updates: Stay informed with the latest news, important dates, and helpful resources for crafting your policy proposal.
- Prepare Your Proposal: Use the information and resources provided to develop your policy proposal.
- Submit Your Proposal: Follow the detailed guidelines and submission instructions provided after completing the interest form.
Important Dates:
Informational Session:
These sessions are your chance to better understand the Futures Institute Youth Policy Competition and how you can contribute to addressing issues such as youth opportunity, racial justice, community safety, education, housing, health, and more. Join us to learn more about the competition, if you qualify, and how to submit. There will be dedicated time for a Q&A
- June 22nd, 10 AM PST/ 12 PM CST/ 1 PM EST: Informational Session 1 – register here
- June 27th, 10 AM PST/ 12 PM CST/ 1 PM EST: Informational session 2 – register here
Policy 101 Workshops
Are you curious to learn the basics about policy and how to create a proposal that stands out? Join The Futures Institute and Youth Power Project as we offer a comprehensive workshop for our Futures Agenda Youth Policy Competition.
What to expect? Step-by-step guidance, expert insights, interactive activities, resource sharing
- July 11th, 3 PM PST/ 5 PM CST / 6 PM EST – register here
- August 3rd, 11 AM PST/ 1 PM CST/ 2 PM EST – register here
Open Office Hours
Are you interested in submitting a policy proposal to the Futures Institute Youth Policy Competition? Do you have questions or want some guidance? Join our office hours. An hour-long virtual space in Zoom where a policy expert can answer your questions and help you brainstorm your idea. Pop in whenever you want for as long as you need
- July 17th, 12 PM PST| 2 PM CST | 3 PM EST – Join the Zoom
- July 24th, 12 PM PST| 2 PM CST | 3 PM EST – Join the Zoom
- July 31st, 12 PM PST| 2 PM CST | 3 PM EST – Join the Zoom
- August 7th, 12 PM PST| 2 PM CST | 3 PM EST – Join the Zoom
- August 14th – 16th 12 PM PST/ 2 PM CST/ 3 PM EST – Join the Zoom
If you have additional questions, please email raeghn@futures-institute.org.