Young Scholars for Justice (YSJ) Program

Established in 1994, our Young Scholars for Justice (YSJ) program is dedicated to developing youth and young adults of color to address the environmental, economic, educational, and social justice issues affecting them, with the goal of ensuring gender, racial, and resource equity. The project promotes the integration of youth and young adults across all areas of PODER's program work. 

Specifically designed to assist East Austin youth ages 14-18, YSJ provides linguistically and culturally relevant programming that draws on the community's strengths and assets.  The program is overseen by staff with considerable experience in youth development and supplemented by college interns studying program design for diverse populations. YSJ is largely driven by the needs and interests of enrolled youth, who help ensure that programming not only effectively engages youth but also reflects their culture.

The YSJ program has created a cadre of young adults that have pursued careers founded upon the principles and values that guide PODER. YSJ alumni include City of Austin council members, school board elected officials, journalists, directors of non-profits and other successful skilled professionals. 

YSJ Application

  • YSJ testing water at the Colorado River under Montopolis Bridge.

  • After a field trip to East Austin’s Roy Guerrero Park, YSJ learn about native plant properties from local healer Marika Alvarado.

  • YSJ at the annual Cesar Chavez “Si Se Puede” March.

  • YSJ host a 2025 Mayoral Candidate Forum.

Candidate Forums: A Young People’s guide

PODER’s Young Scholars for Justice (YSJ) Candidate Forum Guide is designed to provide youth and the community at large with the tools to host a productive political candidate forum. YSJ leaders engage at every level of the community, laying the foundation for a stronger civic culture. This medium provides elected officials with a framework to deepen constituent engagement, allowing youth and residents to connect constructively across political and social concerns. A productive YSJ Candidate Forum motivates sustained, authentic civic engagement.

Digital Guide