Youth Speak,
We Listen

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Oyate isn’t just a program – it’s a space where young people learn, lead, and belong.

Rise Leadership
Rise Leadership

Building Real-World Skills for Life

From learning how to budget and launch a business to understanding elections and local government, Rise students are preparing for the world ahead:

I got my first debit card.

I learned how to study competition for my business.

We learned how the entire voting system works.
Building Real-World Skills for Life

Using Creativity for Justice and Expression

Art, storytelling, and technology aren’t just skills—they’re tools for advocacy:

Art can be anything—and it can spread big messages.
We used sound effects, typography, and screen-printing to tell our stories.
We created posters about drugs, prison labor, and issues we care about.
Using Creativity for Justice and Expression

Confidence, Connection, and Community

Young people are finding their voice—and learning they belong in powerful spaces:

I learned how to present and work in a team.
People listened to me—and gave me positive feedback.
I’ve improved at problem-solving, time management, and understanding others.
Confidence Connection and Community

Civic Awareness & Advocacy

Students are learning how to engage with democracy and make their voices heard:

I learned about my senators and how to advocate for immigration justice.
We researched our community leaders.

We created campaigns, made vision boards, and talked about what kind of future we want.

Youth-Led Transformation

What makes Rise different? It’s co-created with youth. It meets them where they are and supports who they are becoming:

I helped my peers, I trusted myself more, and I appreciated what I have.
This job gives me purpose in life outside of school.
It’s okay to change your mind—and do what makes you happy and confident.
Youth-Led Transformation

Mission-Driven Results

Mission-Driven Results

100% Aligned With Our Mission

We equip underrepresented youth with access to opportunity, creativity, and community.

Serving 50 High School Students

Serving 50+ High School Students Across NYC

Through paid after school leadership program – Rise Leadership – rooted in art, tech, business, and civic leadership.

Measurable Impact

Measurable Impact

90%+ of Participants Say

The environment is welcoming, safe, and educational.

Speaking Skills

80% Report Increased

Self-confidence, public speaking skills, and sense of belonging.

Financial Stewardship

Funds Go Directly To Youth

93% of Funds Go Directly to Youth

Stipends, materials, meals, and cultural enrichment.

Transparent Reporting

And real-time feedback from interns drive continuous improvement.

Stories That Matter

Stories That Matter
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I used to be nervous speaking in front of people. Now I’m more confident—because I know people here won’t judge me.

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I discovered talents I didn’t even realize I had.

Community-Centered & Scalable

Community Centered Scalable
Expanded

Expanded

From 2 tracks in 2022 to 4 in 2024 – serving over 2X as many students.

Staying Connected

Staying Connected
Live Showcases

Live Showcases

Student art installations, and tech demos.

Ongoing Updates

Reports, and ways to get involved.

The Story of Rise Leadership

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Programs Like Rise Leadership