In a society that often discourages taking up space, Y-WE programs encourage young people to be who they are, and that their voices matter. Gabi shares that Y-WE taught her to prioritize her wellness and express herself authentically.
Shaniah Andal came to Y-WE as an eighth grader and has now participated in several Y-WE programs including our summer intertnship at Marra Farm. By feeling safe, she has built confidence in her voice and leadership during her time at Y-WE.
Andrea Martinez is a recent Y-WE graduate and culinary school graduate who stepped into her leadership this summer as a facilitator for Y-WE Create. After learning to take creative risks at Y-WE programs, she wants to teach others to do the same.
Justine Cruise-Roberson is one of the therapists actively holding spots for Y-WE clients through our Healing Justice Collective. She is a licensed social worker who specializes in a variety of therapies, and has an extensive background working with young people, holding space for BIPOC, queer, and trans clients.
Check out Y-WE Grow’s feature in the King County Department of Health’s Environmental Justice Speaker Series. Youth participants Andrea, Fatima, Jaydalen, and Emma share their important perspectives on environmental and climate justice. Learn more about the pressures young people are facing, the things they’ve learned in their time at Marra Farm, and what you can do to support this work.
Y-WE is thrilled to hire Jaydalen Blossom onto our staff as Y-WE Grow’s Intern! Jaydalen first encountered Y-WE as a youth participant in 2018 and was one of the first program participants to garden at Marra Farm in 2019. Now that she is a Y-WE Alum, she is stepping into her leadership in a new way. Learn more about Jaydalen’s Y-WE leadership journey, her values, and finding her “why” at Marra Farm.