The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) at the Center for Nonviolence and Social Justice (CNSJ) is a collective of, passionate young leaders using their lived experience to shape the future of healing, justice, and community transformation. The YAB is a driving force for innovation, equity, and meaningful impact. At CNSJ, we know that real, lasting change cannot happen for youth without the leadership and wisdom of youth. Therefore, the YAB is made up of diverse young people who have participated in CNSJ programs and have been directly impacted by violence, systemic injustice, and structural inequity. These youth are not only survivors—they are strategists, visionaries, and solution-builders.

Through leadership, advocacy, and co-creation, YAB members actively shape CNSJ’s programs, research, and outreach—ensuring everything we do is rooted in real-life experience, authentic healing, and bold community vision. With a focus on trauma-informed care, violence prevention, and social entrepreneurship, YAB members are reimagining what’s possible. From community-based initiatives to youth-led business ideas, they are exploring how innovation and enterprise can drive sustainable change. Together, we promote peace, healing, and opportunity—within our communities and far beyond.

We envision a world where youth are safe, supported, and self-determined. A world where justice means healing. A world where economic opportunity is grounded in values, driven by community, and led by those most impacted.

What We Do:

• Advise CNSJ on programs, services, and policies that affect young people, especially those impacted by violence and trauma..

• Collaborate on events, and advocacy efforts that amplify youth voices and push for community-based solutions.

• Create space for healing, leadership development, and social impact through peer-led workshops.

• Build bridges between youth and decision-makers—challenging systems while also reimagining them.