Youth Leadership Programs

Youth Activism Amplified

The Beyond Differences National Youth Program is built on vibrant young activists dedicated to ending social isolation in their communities.

It is made of two central programs: The National Teen Board and The Activist Accelerator Program.

National Teen Board

The National Teen Board is 40 high school students from across the nation working together to create Beyond Differences’ award winning curriculum.

National Teen Board members work in teams to design specialized curricula used during our National Days of Action and throughout the year in schools nationwide.

As a Teen Board member you will:

  • Join a community dedicated to youth activists
  • Interact with nationally recognized experts 
  • Engage in Activist Academy a 4 Day leadership retreat
  • Hone your leadership skills
  • Make an impact on 10,000 schools reaching 5M+
    students
Apply Here

Activist Academy

Activist Academy is an annual 4-day retreat that brings our National Teen Board members together from across the country.

This is an image of Two National Teen Board members hugging and smiling at the camera.

Activist Academy is an annual 4-day retreat that brings our National Teen Board members together from across the country.

During Activist Academy you will:

  • Network with fellow student activists on the issues that matter to you the most
  • Create a specialized curriculum centered on connection and belonging
  • Hone your activist voice and collaborative skills
  • Gain resume building experience
  • Connect with luminary speakers and educators
  • Explore a new city and college campus
Apply Here

National Teen Board

FAQ

What are the requirements of a Beyond Differences National Teen Board Member?

Throughout the school year, National Teen Board members attend one two-hour Zoom meeting on the first Sunday of each month and a four day at Activist Academy in the Summer. Most members spend an additional two hours a month working on their projects.

Does it cost money to be a member of the National Teen Board?

There is no fee to be a member of the National Teen Board. Activist Academy room, board, and tuition are also free. Transportation to and from Activist Academy is determined on a sliding scale. All students who receive free/reduced lunch at school will automatically qualify for a travel grant.

What is the application process for the National Teen Board?

Once you turn in your application, it will be reviewed, and you may be invited to an interview. This interview is informal and a chance for us to get to know you and for you to ask any questions you may have. Admission decisions are generally delivered within two weeks of the interview. Admissions is done on a rolling basis.

Apply here

Activist Accelerators

Full-day, in-person leadership retreats aimed at training young leaders to build belonging in their schools and communities

This is an image of Two National Teen Board members hugging and smiling at the camera.

Our Activist Accelerator program is a half-day, in-person leadership retreat that takes place on your campus for interested school districts.

During Activist Accelerator you will:

  • Engage in a series of fun, high-energy, multi-disciplinary leadership building activities
  • Learn important skills for helping eradicate social isolation in the classroom
  • Create a culture of belonging in your school and community.

If you have questions about Activist Accelerator, please reach out to Ankoor Patel, National Youth Programs Associate at ankoorp@beyonddifferences.org.