Young Americans for Freedom Student Leaders Gain Inspiration and Courage at the Activism Training Seminar
In January, Young America’s Foundation welcomed 90 students to our national headquarters to participate in an impactful Activism Training Seminar, sponsored by the Daofeng and Angela Foundation.
More than 22 states and the District of Columbia were represented at this program, including college students totaling 58 males and 32 females. Forty of the students are already active in their Young Americans for Freedom chapters on campus, and 36 unique campuses were represented at the program. Since many student leaders graduated during the pandemic, this program also hosted 42 first-time YAF conference attendees.
This program is popular with chapter members as it provides students with hands-on learning experiences to help grow and strengthen their chapters and conservative outreach on campus. As part of the seminar weekend, students had the opportunity to meet with their peers to brainstorm ideas and learn the effective techniques of activism. Specialized breakout sessions included how to design effective flyers for campus, how to table for success, and how to secure funding from their school. Attendees also participated in small group sessions to hone their debate skills on key topics and discuss the true meaning of freedom.
Throughout the weekend, the young leaders and YAF team members had the chance to share how they became involved with YAF. Seminar speakers included YAF staff who work in a variety of roles, including public relations, development, campus advancement, legal, and other key positions.
The opening lecture taught students how to be effective leaders within their chapters—even if they do not have a formal leadership role. Through an Activism 101 lecture, staff focused on tabling to attract new members, securing campus funding, and knowing their target audience.
The YAF team encouraged students to bring leading conservative voices to their schools, discussing steps, tips, and roadblocks students need to be prepared for when hosting a speaker on campus.
YAF’s legal team taught students to fight for their First Amendment rights on campus, sharing examples of YAF’s free speech success stories and highlighting the Foundation’s work to protect students’ constitutional rights.
Students were also introduced to the importance of branding and marketing their chapters, how to meaningfully interact with each student they meet, and how to use the media to bolster chapter awareness. A highlight of the weekend, YAF President Governor Scott Walker inspired the group by stressing the need for the young activists to have courage and optimism.
Students were grateful for the chance to learn how to make a tangible impact on their campuses and are headed back to school inspired to fight for freedom and share conservative ideas with their peers.