Project Period: 2024-2025
The Envisioning New Structures (ENS) Fellows were committed to advancing safety and healing in their communities through research and advocacy, drawing from their lived experiences to reimagine systems that prioritize their well-being and futures. They engaged in research training, critical dialogues, and collaborative opportunities to strengthen their leadership. The project featured guest speakers on topics such as mental health disparities affecting girls and gender-expansive young people of color, that prepared the fellows to design and implement youth participatory action research (YPAR) projects within their communities. Through YPAR and intentional spaces for dialogue, fellows explored how systemic racism and the COVID-19 pandemic shaped the lived experiences and well-being of young people in their communities. This work highlighted their visions for change, offering valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and community leaders to create structures that genuinely support their healing and holistic well-being. It’s about young people shaping the systems they need to thrive.
ENS Fellows’ research identified four critical areas of focus:
- Beauty Standards: Media-driven ideals harm self-esteem, particularly for girls and gender-expansive young people of color. Increased representation is essential to fostering self-acceptance.
- Mental Health Stigma: Cultural and generational stigmas often discourage seeking help. Fellows emphasize the importance of education and open dialogue to challenge these barriers.
- Safe Spaces: Fellows highlight the need for peer support and mentorship from those with shared identities to build connection and understanding.
- Cultural Identity: Affirming spaces that celebrate cultural diversity are vital for fostering well-being and belonging.
These insights underscored the urgency of creating inclusive, supportive environments that honor the experiences of young people of color while fostering systemic change.
Additional Funders & Partners:
- Dr. Lauren Mims, Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Psychology at New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development; Co-Principal Investigator ENS Fellowship
