Young Antiracist Leadership Project (YALP)

Activity Report - YALP 2025 - July-September

Over the past few months, our efforts were primarily focused on the planning, coordination, and execution of the fifth generation of the Young Antirracist Leadership Project (YALP). The cycle began with the announcement of the 13 selected participants, chosen from various regions across Mexico through a rigorous selection process. This process included interviews and a thorough evaluation of the feasibility, creativity, and potential impact of their proposed projects.

July: Orientation and Preparation

July was dedicated to onboarding and introductory sessions for the new cohort. Participants were introduced to the program’s operational protocols, with special emphasis on safety guidelines. For those visiting Mexico City for the first time, we provided a tailored guide to help them navigate the city safely and confidently.

Additionally, participants met with our mental health support team, who facilitated workshops and shared tools to help them manage emotional wellbeing throughout the intensive two-week program. These sessions were designed to foster resilience, self-awareness, and a supportive environment for learning and collaboration.

To ensure smooth communication and preparedness, we established direct and ongoing contact with all participants. They received regular updates regarding the curriculum, access to the Classroom platform, and materials required for each session.

YALP Program Implementation: July 21 – August 3

The fifth generation of YALP officially ran from July 21 to August 3. The first week was conducted virtually, featuring 25 classes covering diverse topics relevant to youth leadership and project development. In addition to academic content, we offered emotional exploration spaces and mental health support sessions to promote holistic engagement.

During this week, we also coordinated travel logistics for participants residing outside Mexico City, ensuring their safe and timely arrival for the in-person segment of the program.

The second week was held in person, with participants attending 25 intensive classes hosted at various venues across the city. The program culminated in a graduation ceremony, where each participant received a diploma recognizing their successful completion of the training and presented a refined version of their project.

August–September: Project Mentorship and Follow-Up

Following the training, the months of August and September were dedicated to assigning individual mentors to each participant. These mentors are responsible for guiding and supporting the implementation phase of the participants’ projects, offering personalized feedback, strategic advice, and ongoing encouragement.

This mentorship phase marks a critical transition from learning to action, empowering young leaders to bring their ideas to life and create meaningful impact in their communities.

Through the contributions via GlobalGiving, young leaders in YALP are gaining access to meaningful training and one-on-one guidance as they bring their community projects to life. The two-week experience in Mexico City immerses them in spaces that reflect the social and cultural realities they’re working to transform — and the mentorship that follows helps shape their ideas into lasting, impactful solutions.

We’re incredibly thankful for your support. Every donation made through GlobalGiving is helping build a new wave of antiracist youth leaders who are committed to creating a more inclusive and equitable Mexico.

Links:

• Resumen YALP2025