Introducing #HalfTheStory's Digital Civics Academy – a pioneering program co-designed by youth, for youth. Our 1-week course, complemented by hands-on advocacy and organizational opportunities, equips the next generation of activists with the skills to influence policies shaping our digital future.
Join us to master effective activism, storytelling, and leadership techniques essential for driving global and local change in digital wellness.
INTRODUCING OUR DIGITAL SUMMER CIVICS ACADEMY
Join the Fight and Make Change
Are you passionate about making a difference in digital wellness and becoming an activist? Our new summer program is tailored just for teens to make local and global change.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
What We Are Building
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Camps are open to teens, aged 16-21, who are passionate changemakers energized about shaping the future world of technology!
When and Where is the Camp?
This year's cohort will be virtual with optional in-person field trips in our key cities (NYC, SF, DC, LA). For participants in other cities they will be paired with a mentor in the field!
8/5-8/9- VIRTUAL
8/5-8/9- VIRTUAL
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
Be the Change You Want to See.
At the #HTS Digital Civics Academy, you'll learn to share your story, mobilize change, and shape policies for schools and workplaces. You'll also meet with policy makers, tech designers, and companies to amplify your voice and drive meaningful reforms.
Join us to put teen voices at the forefront of change and raise your voice!
Join us to put teen voices at the forefront of change and raise your voice!
Key-Note Speakers:
Neha Shukla
Author and AI Ethicist at the World Economic Forum
Arturo Béjar
META Whistleblower
Zamaan Quereshi
Co-Chair of Design it For Us
Bill Smith
CEO and Founder of Inseparable
Georgia Wells
Journalist at WSJ
Ava Smithings
Director of Advocacy at the Young Peoples Alliance
Yoelle Gulko
Director of “Our Subscription to Addiction”
Samra Brouk
New York State Senator
Digital Civics Academy
SCHEDULE
IN PERSON OPPORTUNTIES
Participants in NYC, SF, LA and DC will have opportunities to attend experiential field trips where they can connect with other young change leaders. For participants outside these cities, we will provide opportunities to be connected with mentors in their cities.
MONDAY: INTRO TO DIGITAL WELLNESS ADVOCACY
Explore the historical and political context behind the Responsible Technology Movement. Uncover the fundamental pillars of effecting change at the grassroots, federal, and state levels!
TUESDAY: SOCIAL STORYTELLING 101
Learn the art of telling a compelling narrative from documentary filmmakers, journalists, and whistleblowers! Get empowered with the tools to protect yourself in political and journalistic contexts.
WEDNESDAY: MOBILIZE AND ORGANIZE
Explore how to read, write and analyze policy and the law. Gain practical skills in public speaking, and leadership from tech policy advocates and elected officials.
THURSDAY: CHANGING TECH FROM THE INSIDE
Hear from tech disruptors that have leveraged ethical design and pioneering research to challenge the status quo, reimagining the future landscape of technology.
FRIDAY: CAREERS IN DIGITAL ADVOCACY
Walk away with the confidence that whether it be changing a policy in your own school to speaking on Capitol Hill, you have the power to make tangible change.
