A Transformative Experience by Tymajah Maxwell

Youth Advisory Group Member and Intern Tymajah Maxwell shares her views on being a part of MENTOR Independence Region’s Youth Advisory Group and our Youth Participatory Action Research project.

Participating in the Youth Advisory Group (YAG) is a profound journey that places the voices of young people at the heart of research. Now, you may be asking yourself what exactly is (YAG)? It is a group using the Youth Participatory Action Research method (YPAR). YPAR is a process of inquiry rooted in anti-oppression and liberatory practices that redefines and reframes who has the authority and expertise to produce knowledge and influence change. Youth work in partnership with adults to learn research practices and principles so they can work as a team to define and investigate issues that are most prevalent to them. This innovative approach empowered me to actively investigate and tackle issues affecting myself, my peers, and our community.

YAG is a platform where young adults like me could explore crucial issues, particularly the lack of youth representation in adult mentoring relationships. We aim to understand why some students struggled to find supportive mentors. This experience broadened my perspective on community challenges and my role in addressing them effectively. What made YAG truly transformative was its inclusive approach. We were not just participants; we were researchers, problem-solvers, and advocates for change. The sense of ownership was exhilarating; I felt valued for my unique insights and contributions. This shift from being a passive observer to an active participant was empowering.

Working alongside adults as equals was instrumental in our journey. We built strong, trusting relationships that leveraged each other’s strengths and perspectives. This collaborative spirit enriched our understanding and allowed us to delve into sensitive topics with empathy and maturity.

YAG isn’t just about research; it is a movement. By centering youth voices and expertise, we aimed to create a more equitable world where young people are empowered to lead. This experience equipped us with invaluable skills, from research methodologies to effective advocacy, preparing us to tackle future challenges. Participating in YAG wasn’t always easy. Dealing with complex issues and emotional topics required resilience and empathy. Yet, these challenges were opportunities for personal and collective growth. They reinforced the importance of listening, understanding, and acting with compassion.

YAG is more than a research group; it is a transformative experience that continues to reshape my understanding of community engagement and advocacy. It empowers me with the tools to contribute meaningfully to society and instills a sense of responsibility towards fostering supportive environments for young people. Moving forward, I am committed to applying the lessons learned through YAG to continue advocating for youth voices and driving positive change in my community. Through initiatives like YAG, we can build a more just and inclusive society, where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and make a difference.

In essence, YAG taught me that youth are not just the future; they are powerful agents of change in the present. By harnessing our collective voices and experiences, we can create lasting impacts that benefit generations to come.