EMPOWER AAPI FUTURE LEADERS
This educational program empowers high school students to identify, research, and analyze social and community issues, proposing innovative policy recommendations or business plans. Our goal is to encourage AAPI students’ active participation in public affairs, enhance civic engagement, and foster personal development, paving the way for a brighter future for AAPI youth and communities.
Overview
Since its inception in 2022, the Civic Engagement & Leadership Program has garnered significant support from legislators. They have endorsed our program through letters and videos, encouraging youth participation. At the awards ceremony on November 18, 2023, 23 legislators and officials, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, Congressman David Trone, Congressman Jamie Raskin, Congressman Gerry Connolly, Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna K. Miller, and Secretary of State Susan Lee, signed 36 commendations and congratulatory letters for the students and the Yuan Foundation.
In 2024, the Yuan Foundation modified its programs, allowing AAPI high school students to engage based on their interests and schedules.
1.Two Competitions
1)”Write to Your Representatives” Program
Launched in 2022, this program encourages high school students to participate in civic activities by identifying, researching, and analyzing community or social issues, comparing them to existing policies, and proposing innovative solutions. This initiative aims to enhance civic engagement and leadership skills, empowering students to make a positive impact on their communities. Participants will earn 20 hours SSL after submitting. For more information, please visit the “Write to Your Representatives” webpage.
2)”Yes! Young Entrepreneurs Solutions: Business Plan Competition”
ILF (International Leader Foundation) and Yuan Foundation have organized the AAPI Business Plan Competition annually since 2018. Our goal is to empower high school students to develop innovative business ideas that positively impact society. This competition provides a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to present their ideas and enhance their soft skills and entrepreneurial mindset. For more information, please visit the “Yes! Young Entrepreneurs Solutions: Business Plan Competition” webpage.
2.Two online academies
To better promote AAPI high school students’ participation in civic engagement and the two competitions, Yuan Foundation will continue to host two Academies. The tuition fee is $100 for students in the United States and $150 for international students.
1)Civic Engagement & Leadership Academy
For detailed information, please visit Civic Engagement & leadership Academy webpage.
2)Entrepreneurship & Leadership Academy
For detailed information, please visit Entrepreneurship & leadership Academy webpage.
3.Volunteer Service Program
1)Service Content
- Participate in a social issues survey.
- interview relevant individuals
- Date research and analyze
- Video filming and editing.
- Earn SSL hours (50+ hrs)
2)Two Awards
- Apply for Presidential Volunteer Service Award.
- Combined with the Congressional Award for enhanced learning and development.
Support Videos from Legislators and elected officials
Delegate Chao Wu
Delegate Linda Foley
Congressman David Trone met with student representatives on Capitol Hill
Success Stories
The short videos of Awards winners , presenting their unique perspective, their experiences and what they gained from participating in the competition
2023 Annual Awards Ceremony
2022 Annual Awards Ceremony