In today’s ever-changing world, social and emotional learning (SEL) is more than just a framework. SEL is a foundation for leadership, empowerment, and lasting impact. When young people develop self-awareness, social awareness, and relationship skills, they become not only confident individuals but also powerful changemakers in their communities.

One inspiring example of this is Silas Alvarez, a student representative on a local school board, a respected community leader, and a passionate advocate for youth voice. Since joining Children's Institute's Youth Leadership Council in 2022, Silas has experienced firsthand how SEL fosters skill development, confidence and leadership. SEL has been intentionally embedded in every council meeting, equipping students with the tools they need to learn, grow, and lead.

In 2023, Silas shared what SEL meant to him and why it was essential (see video below). Two years later, he continues to put those skills into action by training and speaking to educators about the importance of student voice in shaping school culture. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of SEL and the profound impact of elevating youth voice. 
 

In your role and work, how do you reinforce to teachers and adults the importance of youth voice and leadership?

In my role of work as a Youth Advocate in the community, Student Representative for Greece Central School District, and overall leader, I reinforce to teachers, staff, and adults that youth voices are important by simply sharing the beneficial outcomes. Being that bridge between students and staff allows me to do that by providing the factual reasonings for how whatever a student may speak out about, could benefit the student themselves, but also the staff and overall building morale. When it comes to reinforcing the student leadership aspect, I continue to show how my own leadership has an impact and relate it to how it connects with our future as change makers in society.

Can you reflect on your leadership experience and how it has impacted you? 

As I reflect on my leadership and how it impacted me, I see how many different opportunities it has provided me to continue to do the work from a perspective that I may not have been previewed to. From those new opportunities and perspectives, I’m also able to reconnect it to my past and create a better understanding on why things happen or what impact it has on not just myself but for others. I’ve learned so much from my leadership and as I continue to grow as a leader, I'm able to share not only my experiences but the resources and networks that helped shaped me to the person I strive to be today.