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Each year, Californians for Justice offices across the state transform into the Summer Youth Leadership Academy (SYLA). This intensive 5-week program focuses on political education, public speaking, organizing tactics, and campaign work. 

What started as neighborhood canvassing and local word-of-mouth recruitment in our Bay Area regions has expanded greatly. Today, SYLA spans four regions across California: San Jose, Oakland, Fresno, and Long Beach. Over 500 youth leaders have graduated from the academy since its inception in 2001. The summer of 2026, SYLA’s 25th year, has championed a cohort of 55 students across CFJ’s four regions. 

In each region, SYLA students participate in hands-on leadership development and grassroots organizing, while also learning about CFJ’s rich history and flagship campaigns. Through the academy, youth draw upon the power of prior generations of student leaders, share their own lived experiences, and find their voice to speak out on the issues most important to them. 

Throughout the years, our campaigns, tactics, and curriculum have evolved to address diverse social justice issues reflecting the times. At its core, SYLA remains a movement builder and a major highlight of the year for both staff and students. 

The SYLA Community Engagement Event brings our summer efforts to life. In every region, young people step into their power to organize local gatherings focused on student-led campaigns. By bringing together youth, families, and community members, we are shifting decision-making power and envisioning a united California where power is shared across generations.

In Oakland…

SYLA students in Oakland organized “Black Belonging in Oakland: A Youth Listening Session.” This interactive listening session centered on what it means to belong in Oakland. Students explored how changes in local neighborhoods and schools have impacted Black youth, why spaces that center Black voices are important, and how Black and Brown communities can build power through shared struggles, leadership, healing, and collective action.

“Through food, games, interactive activities, and real conversations, youth have the opportunity to share their experiences, strengthen relationships, and imagine what thriving schools and neighborhoods can look like,” said Kareem Ransom Jr, the Oakland Organizing Director for CFJ. “This is a space to celebrate culture, build community, and ensure Black and Brown youth feel seen, heard, valued, and empowered as the leaders of today, not just tomorrow.” 

In San Jose…

SYLA students in San Jose organized “Pushing AI Back, Bringing Human Intelligence Forward”, hosting youth-led workshops on the history and impact of AI in our community. The event featured guest speakers, local small-business vendors, and activities such as face painting, raffles, and drawing self-portraits to encourage human creativity.

“Community events are important because it brings us together and it gives us all incentive to work together and tackle whatever issue is going on as a team, as a community,” said Jazmine, an Advance SYLA student in San Jose reflecting on her time with CFJ. “I got to expand my organizing skills as well as my confidence when it comes to leadership, all while connecting with a new group of people from every corner of my region! While it’s sadly my last year with SYLA, these memories will last me a lifetime and what I’ve learned here will come with me everywhere I go.”

In Fresno…

Students in Fresno organized “Voices That Carry: Shaping Sound, Sharing Community,” inviting community members to a local art studio for an afternoon of creativity, conversation, and community. This event provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on mental wellness, grow in their community connections, learn how community care goes hand in hand with social justice, and to artistically create a physical reminder that every voice matters.

“I’m happy I had the opportunity to teach other youth of my age group about topics schools are afraid to touch on,” said Kyo, an Advance SYLA student in Fresno. “It’s important that we stand together and fight for what’s right in our hearts; for the good and comfort of everyone.”

In Long Beach…

Students in Long Beach organized “Community Over Cages: Defund the Pol(ICE),” a community-building afternoon filled with games, raffles, free food, and discussion on why we need to invest in our schools and neighborhoods rather than surveillance and cages.

“We centered this event around no pol(ICE) in schools because of how harmful they are to the community,” said Divani, a SYLA student in the Long Beach chapter. “If you see what communities are harmed the most, it is not surprising; it is the Black and Brown students”

“Pol(ICE) presence continues to harm and divide our community instead of protecting us,” added Abby, another Long Beach SYLA student.