2026 Youth Summer

Leadership Academy

Applications now OPen for SVYCA’s 2026 Summer academy - apply here

SVYCA is Empowering Tomorrow’s Climate Leaders Today by organizing it’s second Youth Climate Leadership Academy. In three weeks (from July 6 to July 24) you can learn everything you need to know about climate change, movement building, community organizing, and advocacy.

Focus on Climate Action:

The primary goal is to empowering young people with the knowledge and tools necessary to take action on climate change issues.

Leadership Development:

The program will include workshops on compassionate leadership and skills like public speaking, project management, and coalition building.

Community Engagement:

Participants will engage with community stakeholders and learn about local projects related to environmental sustainability. Your capstone project will be to connected to SVYCA’s Youth Climate Summit or other Community Partnership where you will have a chance to engage with panelists, community members, elected officials and other environmental advocates!

Academy Structure

60 hours (Mon - Friday)

10am - 3:00 pm, snacks and lunch will be provided
ERC at Ridder Park - SCCOE complex - Map

Educational sessions with experts, green career exploration, leadership training, peer mentorship and community building.
Small groups discussions and projects led by experienced student mentors.
Field trips!
Small group Capstone Projects
SVYCA Youth Climate Summit planning team

Lead the workshops / panels
Get involved in all aspects of organization, marketing, logistics, etc.

The Academy culminates with our Annual Youth Climate Summit where you will meet SVYCA members, elected officials, and other climate advocated from across the Bay Area! Awards from community service and academy competition from the county or state.

The Academy is open to youth from Santa Clara County entering grades 9-12 who are interested in joining an SVYCA City Action team and continuing their advocacy journey.

Here is a recap of our 2025 academy

Academy by the Numbers

Here is a quick look at the Youth Leadership Academy. If you would like a more detailed discription, check out the agenda below or this excellent blog post by Academy Program Coordinator Zoe Hanshew.