Youth Leadership Development

Apopka Youth Group

Our goal is to create a safe, fun, and educational place where young people can grow and learn together. We focus on building leadership, creativity, confidence, teamwork, communication, social skills, and healthy habits, all in a space that respects and celebrates different cultures. We want every young person to feel included, supported, and ready to take on new challenges
Youth leadership development is about helping kids and teens believe in themselves and work well with others. By learning through fun activities and group projects, they gain the tools they need to lead, solve problems, and make a difference in their communities.

Immokalee Youth Group

The Immokalee FWAF Youth Group is a vibrant space where the children of farmworkers, immigrants, and low-income families come together to grow, lead, and create change. Rooted in the values of justice, community, and empowerment, our group focuses on self-development with a strong social conscience, helping youth build confidence, critical thinking, and leadership skills while staying connected to the struggles and hopes of their communities. Through workshops, civic engagement, cultural expression, and collective action, we are preparing a new generation of leaders who are proud of their roots and committed to building a more just and sustainable future for all.”

Recent Events

The FWAF Youth Group in Immokalee continues to create spaces for growth, leadership, and community connection. At our recent leadership meeting, the group held its second Journey Talks Session, welcoming Helen Midney, Manager of the Robert’s Ranch Museum, as our guest speaker.

Helen shared her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of education, career goals, and working for the betterment of our community. Her words left a lasting impression on the youth, sparking motivation and reflection. We also want to recognize Franklin, our dedicated Youth Group Organizer in Immokalee, for his hard work and commitment. Thanks to his leadership, the youth have access to meaningful programs that help them envision and shape their future as leaders in Immokalee.

Homestead Climate Justice Youth Group

The Farmworker Association of Florida’s Climate Justice Youth Group was founded in 2022 at FWAF’s Homestead office to center farmworker voices in addressing climate change and extreme heat exposure in agriculture. The group engages youth in local organizing, leadership development, and supports FWAF’s work in agroecology and occupational safety and health.

In January 2025, the Youth Group partnered with the University of Florida on a Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) project—an approach that empowers youth to investigate and act on issues affecting their lives. The project culminated in a public event on June 14, 2025, where youth shared two podcasts and a photography exhibit reflecting on their day spent with farmworkers.