About Us
Since 2000, the New Leaders Initiative program of Earth Island Institute has provided cutting edge and innovative programming for youth leaders from across North America. The goal of all New Leaders Initiative programming is to engage, grow, and support environmental and social justice youth activists so that they can reach the highest version of themselves. Our youth programming includes fellowships, micro grants, media training, mentorship, visioning, coaching, leadership development, professional skill building, webinars, networking events, workshops, community partnerships, and access to resources and relationships to lead and sustain effective campaigns and projects.
The flagship event of the New Leaders Initiative is the Brower Youth Awards, which has recognized outstanding youth leaders who are making strides in the environmental movement. The national awards ceremony is hosted by the New Leaders Initiative and presented by Earth Island Institute.
The Brower Youth Awards has recognized 141 outstanding emerging youth leaders, representing accomplishments across the full spectrum of the environmental movement. Every year, six young people based in North America are each awarded a cash prize of $3,000. On the night of the awards ceremony, the winners’ inspiring stories are told in short documentary videos. The winners also deliver acceptance speeches about their project or campaign – inspiring environmental activism among the audience. Leading up to the award ceremony, the New Leaders Initiative provides a week-long forum that includes mentorship, training, visioning, networking, career coaching to build skills and capacity to effect change. Lastly, the program has a deep commitment to elevating voices from socio-economic and culturally diverse backgrounds so that they can move forward as successful innovators and activists.
Our annual winners join a growing Brower Youth Awards alumni of powerful youth leaders who are recognized for their sustainable projects, innovative ideas, and ability to make a positive change in our world.