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.
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.
Seattle Department of Neighborhoods met with Y-WE Participant, Fatra, to talk about her thoughts on Reimagining Black History Month and her dreams for Black future in Seattle.
Blackness itself means so many things in our past, present, and future so you can’t sum it up with words. It’s a culture, a fashion, an unwritten constitution, a lens, a lifestyle, an expectation, a feeling, a motivator, the change, the radicality, the possibility, the past, the present, the future; it’s everything. Y-WE participant, Indigo, shares her experience with Blackness, whitewashing, and more.