The Social-Emotional Learning Hub For Black People
Become A Black SEL
Student Advocate
Empowering the Next Generation of Black Leaders
Empowering Student Voice Through Advocacy, Action, and Community
The Black SEL Student Advocate Program is a transformative initiative for Black youth (grades 7-12), designed to cultivate leadership, civic engagement, and social responsibility.
This program offers a structured pathway for students to develop advocacy skills, deepen their connection to their identity, and lead initiatives that impact their communities. It is designed for Black youth who are descendants of the Black diaspora and passionate about personal growth, community leadership, and social change.
Student Advocates take their commitment further by engaging in Advocate programs, where they amplify their impact through Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), Civic Engagement, and the Black SEL Club—a high school club led by Black SEL Advocates.
Advocate Spotlight
Ava Thompson (she/her)
This month, we are proud to recognize Ava Thompson as our Advocate of the Month.
Ava recently served as a Teaching Assistant during the 2026 Black SEL Summer Institute, where she consistently stepped up to support students, assist staff, and help create a positive experience throughout the week. Whether leading by example, lending a helping hand, or encouraging those around her, Ava demonstrated the kind of leadership and commitment that strengthens our community.
We are grateful for the energy, care, and dedication she brings to Black SEL and excited to watch her continue to grow and make an impact.
Program Outcomes
Skill Development in Black SEL Pillars
The Black SEL Student Advocate Program engages 7th–12th grade students in monthly programming designed to build a healthy Black self-concept, deepen critical consciousness, and activate social responsibility that drives civic engagement. Through workshops, training, and community service, Advocates strengthen their ties to community stakeholders and develop the practical skills of Lived Civics — leading toward Black Social Emotional Liberation. Students who complete the program can go on to apply for a paid Teacher’s Assistant role at our annual Black SEL Summer Institute, as well as internship opportunities through our community partnerships.
Watch what Student Advocates have to say about the Black SEL Pillars.
Building a Strong Support Network
To sustain their advocacy and leadership, Student Advocates cultivate meaningful connections within the Black SEL community.
Through ongoing engagement, Advocates establish relationships with current Advocates and Advocate Alumni, identify trusted adults within the Black SEL network—such as a mentor, speaker, or staff member—for ongoing guidance, and recognize trusted mentors outside the network who supports their commitment to Black SEL and leadership development.
Want to become a Black SEL Student Advocate?
We’re excited to offer the opportunity to become a Black SEL Student Advocate. In this role, you’ll help us build a stronger SEL community through critical conversations, community programming, volunteer opportunities and community outreach. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and students who submit interest forms will receive updates about upcoming opportunities, sessions, and next steps.
Learn About Our
Advocate Programs
Black SEL empowers African-American Gen Z to strengthen democracy by championing voter registration and civic engagement. Through community service and advocacy, Black SEL Advocates inspire youth to shape policies, drive change, and build a more inclusive society. Fellows will:
- Promote voter education and registration among their peers.
- Engage in civic activities and community discussions to amplify youth voices.
- Advocate for policies that support Black communities and social justice initiatives.
YPAR empowers young people to lead transformative change by equipping them with critical research skills such as developing questions, designing protocols, collecting data, and analyzing results. Over six months, Black SEL advocates explored the impact of community violence and social media on SEL, presenting their findings through compelling research posters at the Black SEL Summit. This experience fostered positive self-esteem, strengthened community connections, and enhanced civic engagement, positioning these advocates as catalysts for meaningful change in their communities.
Upcoming Events
Click the link below to stay up-to-date on upcoming Student Advocate Sessions and events!
Student Advocate
Advocates in Action
