?? Amplifying Youth Voices: The Impact of Hiring Consultants with Lived Expertise ??

Research consistently emphasizes the invaluable advantages of incorporating individuals with lived expertise into organizational roles, whether as staff or consultants. These individuals bring forth a wealth of systems and experiential knowledge that not only strengthens community bonds and enhances trust but also leads to tangible improvements in services delivered to impacted communities. Within the domain of youth-centered organizations, young people with lived expertise offer a diverse array of identities, backgrounds, and skill sets, enriching organizational practices in profound ways.

Moreover, within these organizations lies a promising opportunity for young people with lived expertise to not only contribute but also benefit from professional and personal development opportunities. However, despite the increasing trend of youth-centered organizations hiring youth consultants with lived expertise for various projects, a gap remains in understanding how to authentically engage these youth in a manner that is truly empowering and equitable.

To address this gap, Chapin Hall conducted a comprehensive review, delving into programmatic materials such as youth consultant job postings, scanning literature on authentic engagement of individuals with lived expertise within organizations, and conducting insightful small-group interviews with both staff and youth consultants from several nationally renowned youth-centered organizations.

Enter the Empowering Youth Study—a groundbreaking exploration into the core components, barriers, and essential strategies for genuinely engaging youth with lived expertise within organizations. As recent developments underscore the pressing need for authentic youth engagement to combat systemic oppression, organizations must take heed of the lessons learned from this study.

Authentic youth engagement transcends mere acknowledgment of youth needs and perspectives; it demands a concerted effort to dismantle divisive practices and foster inclusivity within both the workplace and larger systems. Drawing from insights provided by youth consultants and organizational staff, here are five key areas crucial for authentic youth engagement:

?? Equitable Compensation: Fair compensation practices that accurately reflect the value of young people's contributions and expertise are paramount.

?? Tailored Support: Providing accommodations and support systems tailored to the diverse experiences and needs of youth fosters inclusivity and empowerment.

?? Youth Leadership: Offering meaningful decision-making opportunities and tailored professional development programs empowers youth and amplifies their leadership skills.

?? Transparency and Feedback: Maintaining transparency regarding organizational developments and involving youth in continuous feedback loops ensures accountability and inclusivity.

?? Cultural Rapport: Cultivating a culture rooted in empathy for the lived experiences of youth from diverse backgrounds and identities promotes a sense of belonging and mutual respect.

In essence, authentic youth engagement demands ongoing commitment and intentional action. Organizations can gauge their engagement effectiveness by actively seeking feedback from youth and striving for continual improvement. By enhancing their engagement strategies, organizations can forge meaningful collaborations with youth consultants, ultimately advocating for systemic changes that benefit directly impacted communities.

If you're eager to delve deeper into youth-centered strategies, don't miss out on "Follow the Love: Permanent Connections Scaffolding." Let's continue to amplify youth voices and foster positive change together.

Reference: Olivier, J., & Russell, J. (2023). Authentic youth engagement within organizations: What does it look like in practice? Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago.

???? #YouthEmpowerment #YouthVoice #SystemicChange #AuthenticEngagement #YouthDevelopment #SocialJustice #Empowerment #Inclusion #LeadershipDevelopment ????

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Dr. Elizabeth Wynter is an extraordinary visionary deeply committed to transforming the lives of young people in the child welfare system. With unwavering dedication and boundless energy, she fearlessly challenges norms, reshaping the future for the better.

Her recently published book entitled "Follow the Love" offers agencies and states a path forward to integrate youth voice and ensure a village of permanent connections.

For over two decades, Dr. Elizabeth Wynter, an award-winning advocate, has driven reform in child welfare policies, tirelessly working to make a difference. Her resolute determination inspires others to fight for a more inclusive and supportive child welfare system. The spark that ignited the National Foster Youth Voice Month and the Foster Youth Whisperer Blog came from Dr. Wynter's indomitable spirit, refusing anything less than a complete transformation in society's perception of young people in care.

Completing her doctoral studies in Organizational Leadership with a dissertation on transitioning youth was more than an academic achievement for Dr. Wynter; it symbolized a journey of self-discovery and dedication to empowering others. Armed with research and a deep understanding of the voices of those with lived experiences, she systematically dismantles barriers hindering a brighter future for transitioning youth.

As a captivating keynote speaker, Dr. Wynter enthralls audiences at conferences, symposiums, and workshops. Drawing from her extensive expertise and personal experiences, she delivers powerful speeches that inspire action and drive positive change.

Beyond her speeches, Dr. Wynter's role as a child welfare consultant is equally transformative. Armed with strategic thinking and a profound understanding of the complexities faced by transitioning youth, she collaborates with organizations and agencies to design innovative solutions.

Dr. Elizabeth Wynter stands as a force of nature—a visionary leader with an untamed heart. Her relentless advocacy and dedication to a cause greater than herself continue to inspire change-makers. Dr. Wynter's work is a testament to the power of collective impact for transitioning youth, and her unwavering commitment serves as a beacon of hope for vulnerable young individuals, reshaping the world for the better.