By Miles Pennington, Senior Correspondent
On June 7, 2025, the Aspen Institute’s Center for Rising Generations convened over 100 exceptional youth delegates from all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico for the inaugural Rising Generations Summit in Washington, D.C. The one-day event, held at the Grand Hyatt Washington, was designed to empower young leaders through hands-on training, networking, and youth-led policy organization fairs. Delegates engaged in meaningful dialogues about civic engagement, leadership development, and collaboration on some of the most pressing challenges of today.
This summit marked an important milestone for both the Institute and its supporters, as it exemplified the growing investment in empowering the younger generation to shape the future. The event included a series of workshops, mentorship programs, and discussions that helped attendees build skills for leadership and advocacy.
Empowering Young Leaders
The Rising Generations Summit was not just an opportunity for youth delegates to learn about policy and advocacy—it was a chance for them to become actively involved in the process of change-making. The event’s theme emphasized the importance of the younger generation’s voices in shaping both local and national policies. Workshops were designed to help delegates understand how to translate passion into practical action, from grassroots advocacy to policy formulation and lobbying.
The day began with keynote addresses from leading experts in youth empowerment, who emphasized the urgent need for young people to engage with policy decisions. Attendees were then split into smaller groups to participate in hands-on workshops that focused on the nuances of effective leadership, from managing a team to understanding the legislative process. There was also a focus on sustainable policy-making, with experts providing real-life case studies to show how young leaders could push for long-term solutions to issues such as climate change, mental health, and social justice.
“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are driving change today,” said Kaya Henderson, Executive Vice President and Executive Director of the Center for Rising Generations. “This summit is a testament to their potential and our commitment to supporting their journey.”
The summit also provided delegates with the opportunity to connect with their peers, building relationships that would extend far beyond the event. Networking opportunities, including a dynamic policy fair, allowed youth leaders to share their ideas, collaborate, and learn from one another.
A Vision for the Future
The Center for Rising Generations was established in 2024 with a transformative $185.7 million investment, which provided the funding for the summit and other related programs. This endowment was a strategic effort to support young civic leaders and ensure they had the resources to pursue their goals. The establishment of the center reflects the growing recognition that investing in young people’s leadership development can help tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
“The Aspen Institute has long been committed to advancing leadership across all generations,” said a spokesperson for the organization. “The Center for Rising Generations builds on this commitment by providing the next generation with the resources they need to lead with impact.”
This strategic investment, spearheaded by the Bezos Family Foundation, aims to provide ongoing support for young leaders across the United States. The Center offers mentorship, training, and access to a network of influential figures in various fields, helping to connect youth delegates with opportunities to take their advocacy efforts to new heights.
A Collaborative Effort
What set this summit apart from others was the emphasis on collaboration—not just among youth delegates but between young leaders and established figures in policy, philanthropy, and business. The Aspen Institute invited mentors and experts from a wide range of sectors to participate in the summit’s sessions and provide guidance to the delegates. Participants had the opportunity to engage in small-group discussions and ask questions to experienced leaders from various industries, gaining firsthand insight into how change is made on the ground.
In addition to skill-building workshops, delegates also participated in a youth-led policy organization fair. This fair was designed to help the delegates share the initiatives they have been working on in their communities, as well as to learn about others’ efforts. Many attendees showcased projects focused on social issues such as access to education, climate action, and mental health resources.
“I’ve never felt more inspired or seen my peers as a part of something so much bigger than ourselves,” said Mia Walker, one of the youth delegates from Puerto Rico. “This summit has helped me understand the incredible potential we have to make real change, and I’m excited to continue working with everyone I’ve met today.”
Looking Toward the Future
The summit marked the beginning of a longer journey for these delegates. The Center for Rising Generations plans to continue supporting these young leaders through a variety of programs, including digital training, mentorship, and access to exclusive networking opportunities. The long-term goal is to create a nationwide network of youth leaders who are committed to addressing the most urgent issues of our time.
“We see this as just the beginning,” said Henderson. “The summit is the first of many opportunities for these youth to engage in real-world leadership activities, but the relationships and knowledge gained here will continue to fuel their advocacy work for years to come.”
As the delegates left Washington, D.C., they carried with them the lessons and inspiration they needed to continue pushing for change within their communities. For many, the summit was a pivotal moment in their leadership journeys—one that will guide them as they take on future challenges with confidence and purpose.
The Aspen Institute’s Center for Rising Generations has made a significant step toward ensuring the voices of young people are not only heard but are driving lasting social and political change. With continued support and commitment from organizations like the Bezos Family Foundation, the summit marks the start of an exciting new era for youth leadership in the United States.