✨ 2024 LA2050 Youth Ambassador Program – Open Now! ✨

The LA2050 Youth Ambassador program creates opportunities for impact-oriented Angelenos ages 14 to 24 to make a difference in our region through grantmaking, volunteerism, and other activities. More than 200 young people have participated during the program’s first two years.

In honor of our 10th LA2050 Grants Challenge, we asked our LA2050 Youth Ambassadors to describe their visions for the future of Los Angeles.

The Youth Ambassadors advocated for issues from all five goal categories that drive our funding efforts and form the core of the annual LA2050 Grants Challenge. Those five? #LIVE, #PLAY, #CREATE, #LEARN and #CONNECT.

More specifically, regarding which issues matter most to each of them, many Youth Ambassadors highlighted the importance of healthcare access; climate and environment; affordable housing and homelessness; income inequality; and green space, park access, and trees.

Check out some excerpts from our Youth Ambassadors’ quotes below! 💫

“I envision a community where houses are affordable for everyone, and homelessness is a thing of the past. And I see a place where we live more sustainability as a community and make choices that will benefit future Angelenos.” – Cole H., age 15

“I see a city that prioritizes efficiency and accessibility. I envision a streamlined system for mental health care and social services, where individuals don't have to endure long interviews and lines just to get the help they need.” – Caitlin Jane C., age 18

“For the future of Los Angeles, I envision a safe community where people are no longer underrepresented… To make this a reality, resources should be readily available to the people of Los Angeles.” – Alisella H., age 16

“The future of Los Angeles should include the community in every aspect regardless of socioeconomic status, race, gender identity, or sexual orientation. We are all one and should come together and plan for the future of our youth.” – Jazmin A., age 23

“LA's cultural events and festivals will celebrate a tapestry of traditions, promoting understanding and unity among its residents. This rich artistic tapestry will not only reflect the city's identity but also contribute to its status as a global hub for creativity...” – Juri K., age 17

“My vision for the future is for LA to be more vibrant and hopeful…. When going outside, the first thing I would want to see are bright green trees surrounding nice buildings and calm streets.” – Natsnet H., age 15

“My vision for the future of Los Angeles includes more green space and clean parks where people of Los Angeles can enjoy themselves and spend more time outside in an open area… More affordable housing is also a must.” – Fabio J., age 16

“A future Los Angeles could be a model of climate resiliency. We could be a city that embraces green infrastructure and is listed in the top 10 – not number 80 out of 100 – for green spaces in the United States.” – Tehya J., age 24

“I hope for a Los Angeles that is supportive of achievements, aspirations, and dreams… [where] youth voices are considered in policy and other decision-making processes.” –Tiffany A., age 16

“My vision for LA is an increase in greenery and flora around the city. I love gardening and think if we added more native flowers, not only would they be pretty for Angelenos but also encourage pollinators to stick around.” – Caressa P., age 16

“In my LA, our streets are clean and we all have safe and affordable places to live. My LA is a place where all people are treated equally and all communities have the opportunity to thrive.” – Zachary P., age 15

“My vision for the future of Los Angeles includes funding to provide shelter and housing for our unhoused neighbors… We can all advocate to make Los Angeles the beautiful city it has the potential to be.” – Journey W., age 16

“My vision of Los Angeles is that it will be a safe place for everyone, with housing and food for the homeless individuals. It will also be a place where we start to care more about our environment.” – Berenice D., age 15

“I imagine a pedestrian haven, where people have the option to traverse LA via bike or foot if they choose and where a booming public transportation system exists.” – Samantha C., age 22

“I see a city that embraces diversity, sustainability, and unity to create a vibrant and inclusive community for all its residents... I imagine a city that innovates urban plans and designs to ensure environmentally conscious solutions reach all communities...” – Aaron D., age 16

“My vision for the future of Los Angeles is that LA takes stronger measures towards addressing its homelessness crisis while bridging the gap of inequalities. It is crucial to prioritize affordable housing, job opportunities, and mental healthcare…” – Kayla B., age 16

“My ideal vision for the future of Los Angeles is it is comprised of more green spaces. What we can do is increase our use of solar panels by installing them wherever possible.” – Edith A., age 16

To read all of our Youth Ambassadors quotes, follow us @LA2050 on Instagram and stay tuned for our weekly Friday posts!

✨ 2024 LA2050 Youth Ambassador Program – Open Now! ✨