Born This Way Foundation is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the next cohort of our Global Youth Advisory Board! This is an incredible opportunity for young people around the world to contribute to shaping the future of mental health advocacy and community building. If you’re passionate about mental health, want to make a difference, and are eager to lead in your community, we invite you to apply!
What is the Youth Advisory Board?
The Youth Advisory Board is a team of young leaders from across the globe who provide critical insights and guidance to Born This Way Foundation. As a Youth Advisor, you’ll work alongside Foundation staff to shape programs, campaigns, and initiatives that reflect the diverse needs and voices of young people today. You’ll also serve as an ambassador, spreading awareness about mental health and the Foundation’s work in your community and beyond.
Who Should Apply?
We’re looking for young leaders ages 15-24 from all around the world who:
- Are committed to building a kinder, braver world.
- Are passionate about mental health advocacy and want to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.
- Are eager to share their unique perspectives and experiences to help guide Born This Way Foundation’s work.
- Want to participate in community-building both online and offline.
- Are excited to collaborate on innovative ideas and projects to improve mental health resources and programs.
Whether you have years of experience in mental health work or are just beginning your journey, we want to hear from you! If you’re driven by kindness, inclusion, and mental wellness, this opportunity is for you.
What You’ll Do as a Youth Advisory Board Member:
As a member of the Youth Advisory Board, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping Born This Way Foundation’s programs. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Engage with Born This Way Foundation Programs:
- #BeKind365 Pledge: In your first year, you’ll take the #BeKind365 pledge, which is a commitment to practicing kindness every day.
- Be There Certificate: You’ll earn this mental health certification to learn how to support those around you.
- Channel Kindness Storytellers Club: You’ll attend at least two sessions per year (four in total during your term) to hear and share inspiring stories from young changemakers. Later in your term, you might even have the chance to co-host a session!
2. Create Content for Channel Kindness:
- Each year, you’ll write or create two pieces of content (four in total during your term) for Channel Kindness, our platform dedicated to sharing stories of kindness and bravery. You’ll be encouraged to express your creativity and highlight important issues in your community.
3. Collaborate with Fellow Youth Advisors and Foundation Staff:
- Participate in quarterly meetings with other Youth Advisors and Born This Way Foundation staff to discuss new initiatives, share feedback, and contribute ideas. You’ll attend a total of eight meetings during your two-year term.
- Help review new projects and offer suggestions for improving programs before they launch.
- Have the opportunity to work closely with the Foundation’s team on special initiatives and events.
4. Serve as an Ambassador for Mental Health:
- You’ll have opportunities to represent Born This Way Foundation at virtual or in-person events and possibly media opportunities like interviews, panels, and speaking engagements.
- Use your voice and platform to share Born This Way Foundation’s mission and programs, whether through social media or community events.
- You’ll also be encouraged to bring Born This Way Foundation’s programs, like the Be There Certificate and #BeKind365, to your community, helping spread kindness and mental health resources.
5. Connect with a Global Network:
- Throughout your term, you’ll participate in informal virtual events and team-building sessions with your fellow global Youth Advisory Board members. These connections will help you build a supportive, inspiring network of young leaders from diverse backgrounds.
Requirements to Apply:
To be eligible for the Youth Advisory Board, you must:
- Be 15-24 years old by January 1, 2025.
- If under 18, you must have parental/guardian consent to participate.
- Commit to a two-year term (February 2025 – December 2026).
- Have access to a stable internet connection and be comfortable using Zoom for virtual meetings.
- Be fluent in English, as all communications will be in English.
- Uphold Born This Way Foundation’s principles of kindness, bravery, and mental health advocacy.
- Be able to manage your time effectively, stay on top of deadlines, and respond to communications promptly.
Compensation and Recognition:
We value your time and contributions, which is why all Youth Advisory Board members will receive:
- $2,500 each year for the two-year term ($5,000 total) in recognition of your work and commitment.
- Opportunities to participate in media and speaking engagements to highlight your work and that of Born This Way Foundation.
- Additional perks and recognition as opportunities arise throughout your term.
Application Timeline:
- October 22, 2024: Application window opens.
- November 26, 2024: Application window closes at 11:59 PM ET.
- Early December: Finalists will be contacted for the second round, which includes virtual interviews.
- January 6 – January 10, 2025: Virtual interviews with finalists over Zoom.
- January 27 – January 31, 2025: Applicants will be notified if they’ve been selected.
- February 3, 2025: Start of the Youth Advisory Board term.
- December 2026: End of the term (exact date TBD).
How to Apply:
Ready to take the next step and join this global movement for kindness and mental health? Apply by November 26, 2024, at 11:59 PM ET by filling out our application form. We can’t wait to learn more about you and the impact you want to make!
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Mariah (she/her) at [email protected].
