History

In 2020, the Talloires Network of Engaged Universities in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation launched the Next Generation Leaders (NGL) program, uniting 36 students from 18 countries, including Mastercard Foundation Scholars, to develop a vision for the future of higher education. The cohort of students met regularly, conducted research, and received training and support in four civic engagement themes: Pandemic Recovery and Resilience, Innovations in Gender Equity, Structured Listening Methods, and Civic Engagement Futures. Their ideas were presented at the 2021 Talloires Network Leaders Conference, reaching over 1,400 global participants. Supported by a planning grant from the Mastercard Foundation, NGL alums co-created For Youth, By Youth, a Movement empowering marginalized youth to drive transformative change.  

Vision and Purpose

For Youth, By Youth is a global, multi-year movement co-created by the Mastercard Foundation and the Talloires Network of Engaged Universities. The movement empowers marginalized youth—especially those facing barriers due to gender, disability, ethnicity, or displacement—to drive transformative change that is locally grounded and globally resonant. The movement offers mentorship, financial support, wellness resources, and training in youth-led participatory action research, ethical AI, and storytelling.

We equip young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks to develop innovative community solutions, shape policies, and foster transformation at individual, community, institutional, and societal levels.

We envision a future led by solution-oriented, innovative, and skilled young leaders who embrace diversity and collaborate to create a world that is more just, equitable, and sustainable.   

Our Values

Impact

We strive to create tangible change and positive impacts locally, globally, and individually.

Humility

We embrace the opportunity to learn from others, acknowledging what we do not know and remaining open to new perspectives.

Kindness

We lead with empathy, demonstrating care and compassion through our words, actions, and intentions.

Respect

We honor the humanity in every person and commit to challenging prejudice and discrimination in all forms.

Collaboration & Inclusivity

We actively seek diverse voices, foster shared ownership of solutions, and create spaces where everyone feels valued, empowered, and celebrated.

Solidarity

We stand united with others in the fight against oppression and for liberation, recognizing the interconnectedness of our struggles.

Hope & Levity

We embrace joy, humor, and celebration as essential to wellness and carry unwavering faith in the potential for positive change.