Youth Voices

Speaking out about an issue that matters to you is an important part of being an engaged and involved community leader.

Our programs encourage youth to share their experiences and practice listening to different perspectives. From school lunches to gun violence, check out what young people from across the country have to say on the issues that impact them most.

Okikioluwa

High School Student, New York City, NY

Okikioluwa, a twelfth-grade student, speaks out about women of color and incarceration.

Chaiya

High School Student, New York City, NY

Chaiya, a twelfth-grade student, speaks out about racial inequity in medical care.

Rachel

Middle School Student, New York City, NY

Rachel, an eighth-grade student, speaks out about gay rights.

Luca

Middle School Student, New York City, NY

Luca, a seventh-grade student, speaks out about the New York City sewer system.

Atticus

Elementary School Student, New York City, NY

Atticus, a fifth-grade student, speaks out about food waste in schools.

Angelina

Elementary School Student, New York City, NY

Angelina, a third-grade student, speaks out about ocean pollution.

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Project Soapbox

Project Soapbox is a public speaking competition facilitated by Mikva Challenge that calls young people to speak out on issues that affect them and their communities. These powerful speeches have lasting, transformative impacts on classrooms, schools, and communities.

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Showcasing Youth Action

Once youth have taken action through our six-step process, we create opportunities for youth to share their work and connect to decision makers and community leaders.

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Open

Thank you to everyone who participated in this election—whether you voted, helped spread the word, or engaged in civic conversations, you played a vital role in our democracy. At Mikva Challenge, we believe in the power of young voices and active citizenship. As we reflect on the election, let’s keep working together to build a just and equitable society where everyone has a voice. The election may be over, but there is plenty of work ahead. #Election2024 #DemocracyIsAVerb #YouthEngagement #MikvaChallenge

Open

Today, more than 1,900 Chicago high school students from more than 100 schools will serve as election judges, helping make Election Day a success. With the support of Mikva Challenge and the Chicago Board of Elections, these young leaders are gaining a hands-on experience in civic engagement while assisting voters at polling locations across the city.

Youth voices are essential to a healthy democracy. Research from CIRCLE shows young people involved in civic duties are more likely to become lifelong voters and inspire family members to vote. In fact, 98% of past student judges said they intend to vote, with 94% committing to encouraging friends and family to do the same.

#YouthVoice #DemocracyIsAVerb #MikvaChallenge

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Youth Voices.

Speaking out about an issue that matters to you is an important part of being an engaged and involved community leader.

Help us Grow

Project Soapbox

Showcasing Youth Action