Celebrating Youth Radio at NPR Headquarters

Youth Radio supporters in Washington, DC gathered at NPR headquarters to celebrate two decades of collaboration between both organizations. As NPR’s official youth desk, Youth Radio continues to deliver youth-led journalism to NPR and its member stations, amplifying youth voices across the U.S.

YR Board Member and President/CEO of Latin American Youth Center Lori Kaplan kicked off the celebration with remarks on the history of the Youth Radio-NPR collaboration, and how a strong partnership over the past 20 years has changed the lives of so many.

Lori was followed by Kenya Young, Executive Producer of Weekend All things Considered, who spoke passionately about the great journalism that the two organizations have done together.

Chris Turpin, NPR’s Vice President of News Programming and Operations, sent a video message speaking directly to the impact that YR has had on the quality of NPR’s content overall.

Youth Radio Founder and Chief Content Officer Ellin O’Leary also gave remarks on the power of such a partnership, thanking NPR collaborators for their dedication to YR’s youth voices.

Youth Radio East Coast Alums Soraya Shockley and Sayre Quevedo also joined the celebration to share some of their previous work and experience while at Youth Radio.

YR Board Member and Senior Vice President for Smithsonian Enterprises Mark Bauman Mark spoke about the need for financial support for the future of youth media, and presented Youth Radio YR with a personal check on stage.

Senior Producer for NPR’s All Things Considered Graham Smith wrapped up the program with an inspired insider’s take on the unique space that YR fills in the NPR content landscape, imploring the audience to think creatively around how to support this kind of endeavor.

The evening was filled with over 70 guests and supporters of youth-driven media. Youth Radio is so honored to have such advocates of youth voice in Washington, DC!