Reflecting on AART’s 2024 youth engagement work: Lessons, growth, and the road ahead
By Thomas Leonard
As we move deeper into 2025, the African American Roundtable (AART) has taken some time to reflect on the past year—the lessons we've learned, the progress we've made, and the vision we are carrying forward. For youth programming, 2024 was a year of growth, intentionality, and deepening our commitment to empowering young people in Milwaukee.
What we learned in 2024
Last year reinforced the importance of listening to young people and making sure they are not just leading but shaping the future of our organizing work. We heard feedback from our youth that events like the July 10 Youth Hangout felt too structured—too much like school. That insight pushed us to reimagine how we create engaging and meaningful spaces where youth feel seen, heard, and valued. Our October Youth Hangout took that feedback to heart, incorporating art-based activities and minimizing lectures to ensure young people could express themselves freely.
What’s ahead in 2025
Activists in Residence (AiR) Program – We’re launching the AiR program to create dedicated space for young people to learn from other experienced organizers and artists. This program will provide mentorship, resources, and hands-on organizing experience to youth passionate about advocacy and community change.
Fellows supporting the Youth Membership Launch – Our goal is to formalize a youth membership program that ensures young people not only participate in AART’s work but also actively shape it. Through the support of dedicated fellows, we will build a sustainable model that fosters long-term youth involvement in organizing and campaign building.
Youth Hangouts: A Call to Young Leaders – If you are a young leader looking to build community, develop organizing skills, and be part of a movement for change, we invite you to join our upcoming Youth Hangouts. These spaces are designed for those ready to take action, connect with like-minded peers, and grow as changemakers.
Join us
AART is growing, and we need you with us. If you are a young leader looking for opportunities to get involved, now is the time. Stay connected with us, attend a Youth Hangout, and be part of shaping what’s next.
Thomas Leonard serves as a Youth Organizer for the African American Roundtable.
