

Youth Voices & Speakers
Elevating Lived Experience
The Youth Voices & Speakers platform creates space for military-connected youth and teen caregivers to speak, not as case studies, but as individuals with insight, courage, and perspective.
These moments may take the form of:
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Short talks
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Storytelling
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Spoken word
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Panel participation
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Moderated dialogue

Who May Speak
Elevating Lived Experience
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Military-connected youth
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Civilian Youths
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Teen caregivers
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Youth alumni (young adults who were caregivers or military-connected youth)
Speaking opportunities are voluntary, supported, and guided, never pressured.

What Speaking Looks Like
Elevating Lived Experience
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Brief remarks (typically up to 3-5 minutes)
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Clear expectations and preparation support
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Youth-first pacing and tone
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Family-appropriate content
This platform prioritizes authentic voice over polished performance.

Why Youth Voices Matter
Elevating Lived Experience
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Youth have shared that:
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They want to be heard without being filtered
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Their experiences shape who they are becoming
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Sharing their story helps others feel less alone
The Youth Voices platform affirms that speaking is a form of leadership.
Want to Share Your Voice?

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