Celebrating 20 Years Rooted In Justice

On June 10th, 2026, Youth Represent marked a significant milestone with Rooted in Justice, our 20th Anniversary celebration.

The evening brought together young people, advocates, partners, supporters, board members, junior board members, staff, and community leaders to reflect on two decades of impact and recommit to a future where all young people have access to opportunity, dignity, and justice.

For 20 years, Youth Represent has stood alongside Black, Latiné, and other youth of color most impacted by the criminal legal system, working together to remove barriers, expand opportunity, and build pathways forward. Rooted in Justice was an opportunity to honor that journey while celebrating the people and partnerships that continue to make this work possible.

Throughout the evening, guests connected with young leaders whose experiences, advocacy, and vision continue to make them invaluable partners Youth Represent’s work. Through poetry, conversation, and red carpet interviews, young leaders Eboney McClellan, Samaya Vails, Danyil AlvaWillitron and Carlos Caiza reminded us that meaningful change happens when impacted communities are not only included, but empowered to lead.

We were also honored to recognize our esteemed award recipients, whose leadership and commitment to justice reflect the values at the heart of our mission:

Dascha Polanco
Champion of Justice Award

Amal Kharoufi
Youth Leadership Award

Year Up United
Community Partner Award

As we reflected on the past 20 years, we also looked ahead. The challenges facing young people remain urgent, but so does the power of community, advocacy, and collective action. Rooted in Justice was more than an anniversary celebration. It was a testament to what is possible when young people, families, advocates, and communities come together to build a more just future.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, supported us, and continues to stand alongside young people in the pursuit of justice and opportunity. Thank you to our generous sponsors who commitment to young people, community, and justice helps sustain Youth Represent’s work every day, and strengthens the pathways we continue building together.

Here’s to the next 20 years.