The African American Policy Forum (AAPF) is currently seeking applications for our 2021 Young Scholars Program: Art, Activism and Advocacy!
The Young Scholars Program (YSP) is a multi-phased mentorship course in which a cohort of young Black women and girls are organized to develop their research and leadership skills. Our operating principle is that young women are the best informants and intermediaries in providing experience-based support systems, guidance, and mentoring for the next generation of Black girl leaders. The Young Scholars Program begins with an intensive six-week remote summer internship during which AAPF works with the YSP participants to develop a multidisciplinary and intersectional approach to assessing the conditions of Black girls’ lives. After the completion of the summer program, Young Scholars will be encouraged to continue engagement with YSP learning and mentorship opportunities. We are excited to invite scholars (from 17 to 22 years of age) to submit an application to join the next class of scholars.
The first phase of the 2021 YSP program begins Tuesday, July 6, 2021 and ends Friday, August 13, 2021. The program will be completely remote, requiring the use of Zoom and other virtual forms of communication and collaborative work. Young Scholars will gain first-hand experience in how to analyze research reports, write research proposals, conduct research projects, and create youth-informed research presentations. YSP participants are expected to commit to 20 hrs/wk remotely. A small stipend will be provided.
Requirements:
We welcome high school students (must be at least 17 years old) and undergraduate college students (all degree programs and majors) to apply. Applications will be reviewed for presentations of strong analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as effective interpersonal skills. While the Young Scholars Program will be a development opportunity, applicants should have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Workspace/Apps, and basic proficiency in social media applications (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram). Due to the remote nature of this opportunity, applicants must have their own computer and internet access.
AAPF is particularly interested in applicants who have experience and capabilities in the below-listed areas (applicants do not need working knowledge of all areas):
- Digital conferencing technology (e.g. Zoom, cameras, microphones, etc.), emailing, word processing (e.g. Microsoft Word, Google Docs, etc.)
- Social media platforms (e.g. websites, blogs, podcasts, etc.)
- Experience working in a non-profit or social justice environment
- Conducting and publishing academic research
- Working collaboratively with others in a research team
We encourage applicants to highlight these experiences as well as any others they would like to share to strengthen their application.
Primary responsibilities will include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Participating in racial and gender justice-oriented news, research, and conversations
- Working collaboratively with members of your research team
- Completing assigned research and writing tasks
- Updating organization information such as publications or other materials
- Reaching out to potential research participants, scholars, and community organizations
- Researching race and gender policies and analyzing their effectiveness
- Webpage design and creation centering Black girls
Submission Instructions:
If you are interested in participating in the 2021 Young Scholars Program, please submit your submission material here. You will be prompted to provide a resume, cover letter, relevant writing sample of 2-5 pages, a 5-minute video explaining your interest in this work, and a professional reference. Applications are due by 6:00 p.m. PT (9:00 p.m. ET) on Monday, June 28th.
Questions? Email info@aapf.org for any questions or concerns regarding this announcement or the application process.
