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Calling all teens: Help shape the future of your city by joining the Seattle Youth Commission

The last two years have changed the world. Trying to absorb the upheaval that is still taking place all around us can be overwhelming. However, great leaders have been rising to the challenges and creating visions of a more inclusive, peaceful, equitable, and joyful future. Those leaders were teens once (some are teens now!) and many of them got their start serving communities like yours, working on issues they care about, and rallying their friends to get involved. 

You are a future leader and we invite you to join the Seattle Youth Commission! 

Apply to be a Seattle Youth Commissioner 

Seattle is at a consequential moment. We have a rare opportunity to completely reimagine the future of our city and we want you to be a part of it. We need young people who come from different backgrounds and hold different beliefs, to come together, dive into difficult conversations, and help us build a better Seattle. If you bring an open mind and heart, we’ll support you on the rest.  

COMMISSION AND APPLICATION INFORMATION 

We are  accepting applications for the Seattle Youth Commission, a group of 15 Seattle teens working to address issues of importance to youth. Appointed by the Mayor and Seattle City Council, teens serving on this commission work with elected officials, City staff, community leaders, and other young people citywide to make positive changes through policy, organizing, and events.

The deadline to apply is Monday, June 28 at 5pm.

Commissioners serve two-year terms that would begin in September 2021 and end June 2023. We are currently seeking commissioners for City Council Districts 2, 7, and Citywide. The group meets bi-weekly on Wednesdays from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. and will have additional committee requirements. Commissioners are also required to attend a half-day virtual retreat.

To apply, complete and submit this online application by June 28 at 5 pm. Interviews for applicants will be held at the end of June and early July. BIPOC youth are especially encouraged to apply. 

 If you have questions, please contact commission coordinator Osbaldo Hernandez at Osbaldo.Hernandez@seattle.gov or 206-233-3732.


Seattle Youth Commission Projects 

In addition to representing youth across the city, commissioners receive hands-on experience in the public sector and learn how to cultivate the youth voice in city policy. Here is a sampling of projects the Seattle Youth Commission has worked on in the past: 

  • Researched marketing and recruitment strategies to increase enrollment in Seattle Public Schools’ Career Technical Education Skills Center to recommend to the Office of Economic Development. 
  • Collaborated with the Mayor’s Chief of Police Search Committee to facilitate a youth forum on selecting the new Chief of Police. 
  • Advised the Department of Education and Early Learning on top priorities to consider for the Families and Education Levy.