Ever see a problem in your school or community and think, “Someone should fix that”? This seminar will show you how you can be that someone.

“The Advocate’s Toolkit” is an interactive, 3-hour seminar designed to move you from passion to action. We’ll go beyond just talking about social justice and give you the practical skills to build a campaign, get your voice heard, and make a real impact.

This event will feature a special keynote conversation with a representative from the Connecticut Sun organization, who will share their personal journey of using their public platform to champion change.

Who Should Attend?

This seminar is free and open to all Connecticut high school students with a passion for leadership, social justice, and advocacy. (Current Change Can’t Wait Fellows are pre-registered).

What You Will Learn (Seminar Agenda)

• 10:00 AM: Welcome & The “Why”: Networking icebreaker with other young leaders from across Connecticut.

• 10:30 AM: Keynote: “Finding Your Platform & Using Your Voice”

  • A special guest from the CT Sun organization discusses leadership, resilience, and the power of advocacy on and off the court.

• 11:15 AM: Interactive Workshop: “The Advocate’s Toolkit”

  • Led by TYJI staff, this hands-on session will teach you the fundamentals of making change:

    • Root Cause 101: How to identify the real problem, not just the symptoms.

    • Storytelling for Impact: How to craft a 1-minute, powerful message that makes people listen.

    • Stakeholder Mapping: How to find out who really has the power to make the change you want.

• 12:45 PM: “Ask Me Anything” Panel

  • A candid Q&A session with our keynote speaker and TYJI’s policy experts.

• 1:00 PM: Networking Lunch (Free)

  • Connect with speakers, TYJI staff, and your fellow students.