Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes311Search all NYC.gov websites

Youth Ambassador Leadership Program

Print icon Print
NYC OPHC Youth Ambassador Leadership Program Logo

OPHC Youth Ambassador Leadership Program

Cultivating the Next Generation of Leaders for Respect and Inclusion

The NYC Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes (OPHC) Youth Ambassador Leadership Program empowers young New Yorkers, ages 8 to 18, to become leaders of inclusion, equity, and respect in their schools and communities. Open citywide, the program provides hands-on training in leadership, public speaking, civic engagement, and organizing. Through workshops, peer-led projects, mentorship, and collaboration with city leaders, ambassadors gain the tools to recognize and respond to bias while building inclusive spaces. The program culminates in a Youth Leadership Summit, celebrating student-led initiatives and their community impact.

Program Goals

  • Inspire youth to stand against bias, discrimination, and hate.
  • Build leadership, advocacy, and communication skills.
  • Foster dialogue, belonging, and cross-community solidarity.

Activities

  • Funding to conduct Community Based Projects
  • Quarterly Workshops: Leadership, public speaking, restorative justice, and hate prevention.
  • Peer-Led Campaigns: Student-driven school and community projects.
  • Mentorship: Guidance from OPHC staff, alumni, and guest leaders.
  • Community Engagement: Interaction with city officials, educators, and nonprofits.
  • Recognition: Annual Summit to showcase achievements.

Impact

The program addresses a critical need: many young people face bias but lack structured leadership opportunities. Ambassadors leave with skills, networks, and confidence to create safer, more inclusive environments.

Why This Initiative Matters

OPHC’s partnerships such as HeARTwork Against the Hate, Community Project Grants, and youth- focused initiatives have proven that when young people lead, communities thrive. The Youth Ambassador Leadership Program builds on these successes, creating a pipeline of future city leaders dedicated to equity and respect.

Who Can Apply:

NYC students ages 8 to 18 from public, charter, or private schools in all five boroughs, whether seasoned leaders or emerging voices for change.

Application: The 2025 Youth Ambassador Leadership Program application has closed. Please check back for the 2026 application, which will open in July 2026.