Youth Leadership Council 2024

Ever Forward - Youth Leadership Council ( EF-YLC) is a high school leadership program for youth attending Oakland or schools. Young adults learn the skills necessary to be stronger leaders in their community through community involvement, project-based learning, and outdoor trips.

The Ever Forward - Youth Leadership Council (EF-YLC) empowers high school-aged young men in grades 9–11 in the East Bay to become confident, empathetic leaders. Members of the YLC Advisory Board participate in social-emotional learning, global leadership opportunities, and impactful community projects.

You take on responsibilities such as planning initiatives for other youth groups, organizing community pop-up events, and attending conferences to expand their skills and networks. Through these experiences, you will lead peer activities, coordinate events, and influence program decisions, fostering self-esteem, professional skills, and readiness for college or vocational pathways.

EF-YLC equips young men to create meaningful change in their lives, schools, and communities while preparing for their future.

Our mission is to empower the healthy development of young men by harnessing the power of vulnerability to unlock their true potential. Through building strong leadership skills, honoring their truths, and sharing their stories, we inspire young men to support one another and become the impactful leaders they aspire to be—for themselves, their families, their education, and their communities.

THIS YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL IS A PAID OPPORTUNITY.

    • EFC-YLC Schedule: December 2, 2024 - May 10, 2025

    • Three Saturdays a month 10 am - 3:30 pm *Unless otherwise noted on longer travel field trips

    • 12/6 - San Leandro Interviews

    • 12/6 - Family Orientation, first day of program

    • 12/13 - 12/14 - Overnight Fall Trip 

    • 2/15 - 2/17 - Overnight Winter Trip

    • 3/28 - 4/4 - Overnight Spring Break Trip for SF Percidio 

    • 4/7-4/11 Overnight Spring Break Trip for Sacramento 

    • 5/10 - Last Day of Program

    • You are interested in developing your voice as a leader, facilitator, and co-creator

    • You are interested in building meaningful relationships with youth across the bay

    • You believe in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all

    • You are interested in making a positive impact in your community

    • You are interested in building skills and comfort in outdoor adventures

    • You want to create engaging programs that explore the park's history, present, and future

    • You are dependable and accountable when working individually and within a team

    • You are interested in enhancing the lives of young men

    • You are interested in having a summer program in 2025 where you can earn money while you put your leadership skills to use.

    • EFC- YLC: This council will be a paid opportunity - $310 a month (with perfect attendance)

    • Learning specific leadership and engagement skills

    • Outdoor adventures (camping, backpacking, hiking, kayaking, ropes course, etc.)

    • Workforce development opportunities, college recommendations, and letter of reference

    • Transportation support

    • Snacks provided

    • Must attend a Bay Area High School -  Oakland, Berkeley, SLz, San Leandro, Concord, Hayward, or San Francisco High School (

    • Able to commit to the Ever Forward- Youth Leadership Council the whole school academic school year. 

    • Apply by 11/29 

For more information, contact Justin Martinez at justin@everforwardclub.org

Themes and topics

  • Leadership Development

  • Community Impact

  • Relationship Building

  • Inclusivity and Welcoming Space

  • Teamwork and Accountability

  • Exploration and Outdoor Skills

  • Program Development and Future Opportunities

Meet The Team

Justin Martinez, YLC - Lead

Justin Martinez is leading the Planning for the Young Men's Conference and the Development of Youth Leadership Council (YLC) at Ever Forward Club, helping to shape its theory of change and program structure. A dedicated School Social Worker, former foster youth, and first-generation college graduate, Justin is passionate about advocating for youth in the foster care system. He holds a Master’s in Social Work, a Pupil Personnel Services Credential, and is an Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW #315150).

Alberto Sanchez, YLC Co-Lead

Alberto Sanchez is the Design and Planning Lead for the Young Men's Conference at Ever Forward Club. An Oakland native and former EFC mentee, Alberto’s journey with Ever Forward began as a participant and has come full circle as he now plays a pivotal role in shaping impactful events for young men. As a former program coordinator, he has extensive experience organizing events that foster leadership, connection, and growth

Amanda Putnam - Volunteer Coordinator

Amanda Putnam, a 2022 graduate of SF State, brings a rich background to Ever Forward Club from her roles as Museum Educator and Public and Research Historian, including her work with the Chinese Historical Society of America (CHSA). With a graduate focus on African Diaspora, U.S. Foreign Policy, Global Cold War Studies, and Black Intellectual History, Amanda’s expertise enhances her commitment to impactful education. Also a fiction writer, she infuses her work with creativity and depth.

Parth Savla - Director of MMM

Parth Savla is the Director of the #MillionMaskMovement at Ever Forward Club, where he provides strategic leadership and guidance to the team leads. With over 15 years of experience in business development, strategy, sales, marketing, and fundraising across both for-profit and non-profit sectors, Parth plays a critical role in expanding the reach and impact of the movement. Previously, he served as the Summit Director for Boys to Men Mentoring's Virtual Summit, where he gained valuable experience in youth-focused initiatives. His expertise drives Ever Forward’s mission to foster connection and emotional well-being for young men worldwide.

Ashanti Branch - Executive Director

Ashanti Branch is the Founder and Executive Director of Ever Forward Club, where he leads efforts to empower young men through social-emotional learning and leadership development. A former educator, principal, and school administrator, Ashanti began Ever Forward in 2004 to support underserved youth in navigating the challenges of life and education. His innovative work includes launching the #MillionMaskMovement, a global initiative that encourages participants to share their inner struggles and foster empathy, creating safe spaces for youth to express themselves authentically and build meaningful connections.

For more information, contact Justin Martinez at justin@everforwardclub.org

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