“We aim to be different.” That’s what Youth Forward MKE promised nearly one year ago when they officially launched their youth-adult partnership. Now, with a cohort of nine youth ambassadors and a clear framework for the future, they’re putting their words into action and showcasing what it looks like for youth to wield the power.

During their December meeting, Youth Forward MKE highlighted two local organizations who are demonstrating what it looks like to authentically partner with youth: Youth Justice Milwaukee and the United Way Community Schools Partnership.

At their September 28 Coalition meeting, Youth Forward MKE didn’t just talk about youth leadership – they demonstrated this leadership in action. Attendees learned firsthand from Youth Forward Ambassadors and youth representatives of local organizations precisely what it means to prioritize youth voice.

Youth Forward MKE is on a mission to uplift youth voice as part of its larger goal of ending educational inequity in Milwaukee. The Coalition’s June meeting served as a testament to the power of youth voice – and a call to city leaders to stand up and take notice.

Nearly 60 individuals from across Milwaukee joined together on March 23 to celebrate the new Youth Forward MKE Coalition and learn what it truly means to create space for, build relationships with and shift power to the city’s youth.