Young Invincibles has empowered young adults for over a decade; our network of youth community and student leaders numbers in the thousands. Young adults have proven time and time again that they will be the change past generations have hoped for. All we need to do is set them up for success. YI has embarked on a campaign to highlight the many alumni who have passed through our youth programs. Some now work as our colleagues and teammates, while others have been trailblazers at other institutions and programs. Some started their own campaigns to empower others. All around the world, YI alumni are doing wonderful work in service of the community.

Check out this month’s alumni highlight, Pablo Pratt.

Throughout our National Youth Advisory Board program (NYAB), YI gathers and trains the next generation of local community leaders. Throughout the program, advocates learn how to tell their stories in an impactful manner, speak to elected officials, advocate for policy change, cultivate community, and pursue a policy they are passionate about, all while gaining transferable skills.

This month, we contacted former TX NYAB graduate Pablo Pratt to see what he’s up to. We asked him a couple of questions and asked if he had some wisdom to share with other advocates nationwide.

What are you up to now after your time on the NYAB?
After my time on the National Youth Advisory Board, I have actively pursued my goals and passions. For me, that meant continuing my education or embarking on a career journey aligned with my advocacy interests. I graduated with my M.S. in Information Security & Privacy from UT Austin and currently work at Texas Network of Youth Services as an Operations Coordinator. Some of my fellow board members chose to further their education, while others started working in fields such as public health, policy research, community organizing, or pursuing advanced degrees. The NYAB experience served as a springboard, providing us with valuable connections and insights into the world of youth advocacy.

What is a skill you learned during the program?
Throughout my participation in the NYAB program, I gained a wide range of skills that have been instrumental in my advocacy work. I learned effective communication and outreach strategies to convey my message effectively. I honed my research and policy analysis abilities, allowing me to delve deeper into the issues I care about. The program also fostered my leadership skills and taught me the importance of teamwork and collaboration. I gained hands-on experience in grassroots organizing and coalition building, which have been invaluable in creating meaningful change.

Any advice for current and future advocates?
To current and future advocates, I would advise you to stay passionate and committed to your causes. Stay informed about the issues you care about and never stop learning. Build strong relationships with like-minded individuals and organizations, as collective action is key to driving change. Utilize your unique skills and talents to make a difference, whether it’s through research, organizing, or raising awareness. And most importantly, be persistent and resilient in the face of challenges. Together, we have the power to create a more equitable and inclusive future.