Empowering Change Through Media: Vote for YR Media’s SXSW Panel

In a world that’s been marked by social injustices and a growing need for diverse representation, the power of media to drive change has never been more evident. YR Media, a dynamic platform amplifying youth voices, is taking a significant step toward addressing these challenges with a proposed panel at SXSW 2024.

It is with heavy hearts that we share our condolences with the family of our YR Media community member and YR star alum, Angus Cloud, best known for his incredible, award-worthy portrayal of Fezco “Fez” O’Neill in Max’s hit drama “Euphoria.” His untimely death at the age of 25 leaves a void in our hearts and the Oakland arts community.

Meet our Co-Vice Chair Neha Tiwari, founder of Version Consulting and new media veteran. Tiwari has a passion for empowering businesses and nonprofits run by women, BIPOC, and/or underrepresented founders run in a more efficient and effective way.

Inherited, the critically acclaimed youth climate movement storytelling podcast, is back for Season 3. Produced by YR Media and distributed by Critical Frequency, Inherited explores personal stories from young people all over the world who are grappling with the effects of climate change. YR Media journalist Shaylyn Martos, who strives for better representation of LGBTQ+ and Indigenous people in media, introduces eight young storytellers exploring how historically marginalized communities are confronting the devastating impacts of climate change while offering hope for the future.

YR Media is excited to collaborate with @GoogleNewsInitiative and @PoynterInstitute in their newly formed student fellowship program combating mis- and disinformation. YR Media has a 30+ year legacy of employing next-generation creators so we are excited to join other media outlets who are part of this opportunity. The fellowship runs through the 2023 College Semester. Fellows receive a $10,000 stipend. Must be 18-years-old, enrolled in an accredited college or university, eligible to work in the US, and able to work in person. The deadline to apply is July 21, 2023 (midnight pacific time).

Welcome to a new series designed to introduce our readers to the talent behind the movement. We’re kicking-off with introductions of the Board of Directors, and will continue to introduce members each month.

May is officially Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, so we are calling our supporters’ attention to YR.Media to check out content that sheds light on the experiences, dreams and aspirations of the AAPI community.

We are excited for the achievements of our alumni, and their much-deserved recognition. Please join us in celebrating  their continued success in shaping the future of journalism. 

The Federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency ended on May 11, and with it many supplemental resources were scaled back, including CalFresh emergency allotments and Pandemic-EBT (P-EBT) programs.

To help those who will be the most affected by this change, the YR Media Program department, in partnership with the Alameda County Food Bank, increased onsite food access for youth and their families.

“Access to healthy food is not a privilege, but a basic human right,” said Shirley Yee, senior director of programs for YR Media. “We’re committed to providing support for young people to thrive, succeed and reach their full potential, and that starts with making sure they stay healthy.”

In response to these staggering mental health statistics, YR Media and members of the California Youth Media Network (CYMN) launched a new reporting series aimed at shedding light on the challenges facing younger generations.

YR Media’s Adult ISH Podcast, Part of Radiotopia from PRX, Talks Schoolyard Beef, Canna-business and Self Love Scams in Season 9

Our 2022 Impact Report provides insight into a year of achievements, expansion, change and success.

YR Media Secures New Physical Location in Chicago to House its Growing Midwest Hub

Executive leader and social justice advocate, Demetria Huntsman, was recently named Chief Operating Officer for YR Media.

Coding for a purpose: helping young people combine journalism, data, design, and code to make media that makes a difference.