Two weeks ago, Frankfort became a buzzing hub of youthful energy and advocacy as over thirty dynamic young individuals from every corner of the Commonwealth convened for Kentucky Youth Advocates’ annual youth retreat. This gathering, held on the eve of Children’s Advocacy Day, was not just any retreat – it was a vibrant confluence of minds eager to shape the future.

Groups including KYA’s Health Youth Ambassadors, REFORM Louisville, True Up, and YouthBuild Louisville attended this year’s retreat.

The purpose of KYA’s annual retreat is to provide youth an opportunity to engage in the legislative process, network with youth across the state, and harness their collective power to advocate for transformative change.

This retreat was jam-packed with opportunities – from learning about KYA’s Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children agenda to icebreakers, a taco bar, communication workshops, understanding how policy impact families and more – youth were able to gain tools to help them become curious learners, data-driven investigators, and confident communicators.

Mock Legislative Committee Meeting

The centerpiece of the retreat was the Mock Legislative Committee Meeting, a simulated session that offered a hands-on experience of the legislative process.

After a knowledge building session on bill process to passage, the structural work of committees, and testimony development, youth were broken out into groups based on a topic of their interest where they were charged with the task of developing a compelling testimony on their topic of choice, delivering it to the committee, and answering questions from “legislators”. 

This exercise wasn’t just about understanding the legislative process – it was about realizing the power of individual stories and voices in shaping policies that touch lives. The participants explored the implications of their topics on children and families and envisioned policy shifts that could herald a brighter future for these communities.

When reflecting about the activity, True Up Peer Network member Jasmin shared: “I never knew my voice and story could be so powerful and can help so many. The ‘practice’ committee made me want to advocate more for different needs.”

Health Youth Ambassador and high school senior in Daviess County, Mursal Nazari shared: “This experience impacted me in many ways, but the most significant is that I feel like I can speak out, do something good for my community, myself, and those who can’t.”

Isabella Cornett, another Health Youth Ambassador who is from Graves County, reflected about the various groups in attendance: “With all ages and all levels being involved it made the learning experience so much more rewarding. This really showed how important it is for individuals to speak up about what moves them.”

REFORM Louisville member and young leader Lee Johnson when asked about the testifying process shared, “Take a risk and use your voice. That’s all you need to make a change”. 

Jacobe Daugherty echoed similar sentiments about using your story for change and that through sharing, you can “be a light to your world”. 

The 2024 Retreat was more than just an event – it was a stepping stone for young advocates ready to embark on a journey of change. Kentucky Youth Advocates remains committed to this cause, equipping the leaders of tomorrow with the tools they need to make a difference.

As the retreat concluded and the participants returned to their respective corners of the Commonwealth after Children’s Advocacy Day, they carried with them not just memories but a renewed sense of purpose and a burning desire to advocate for a world that listens to and values the voices of its youth. The torch has been passed, and these young advocates are ready to light the way.

A special thank you to our board members and partners for being part of this special experience! Thank you Charlie Baker, Angie Hatton, and Elizabeth Owens Southard for your time and contributions to making the retreat a success.