Speak2Youth Advocacy was founded by Winston Churchill High School student Eden Shaw in August 2025 with a simple goal in mind: creating resources for children globally to feel confident in themselves and their ability to advocate for their passions.
As a teaching assistant for a Sunday school kindergarten class, Eden realized that many students struggled to express themselves respectfully and work through conflict constructively. She recognized similar communication challenges among elementary and middle school students at local schools where she tutored.
After researching curriculum requirements in primary and secondary education across the U.S., she discovered that many schools do not explicitly teach students how to write professional emails, communicate effectively, or navigate difficult interactions. When these skills are suddenly expected of students in high school, they may be unprepared.
Speak2Youth Advocacy was born to help fill that gap; through interactive presentations and activities, the international, student-led organization equips young people with tools to advocate confidently for themselves and others, preparing today's youth to engage in respectful, professional dialogue.
The organization is led by its headquarters team, including President Eden Shaw, Co-Chief Operating Officers Juliana Fay C. Thompson and Eileen Zhuge, Co-Chiefs of Staff Arpita Vijay and Sera Shaw, Vice-President Morgan Gudger, Secretary Kumayl Bandukwalla, and Treasurers Harrison Shaw and Liv Malet.
Noteworthy accomplishments include:
220,000+ reached through digital content
1,200+ kids directly impacted through signature workshops
170+ volunteers globally
21 chapters operating on an international scale
Brazil, India, Canada, Pakistan, and Portugal (international)
1,600+ Instagram followers
First annual MD State Advocacy Day: April 2026
Speak2Youth Advocacy’s Maryland chapters researched and collaborated to advocate for three bills related to education and civic engagement, meeting with six delegates and one senator. All three bills ultimately passed the Maryland General Assembly.
One signature workshop is now implemented in the curriculum of Portugal’s Colégio Efanor Primary School for students in 5th-9th grade
For more information, check out our website: Speak2Youth.com
Instagram account handle: @speak2youth_hq
*Note: Executive Board and Ambassador applications are now open! If you are a dedicated middle or high school leader and want to be a part of Speak2Youth, please apply through our website or the link in the Instagram account bio!