Roots & Shoots National Youth Leadership Council

Leaders of Today for Tomorrow

The Compassionate Leaders Our World Needs

The U.S. Roots & Shoots National Youth Leadership Council (RSNYLC) is an example of what is possible when the imagination and passion of young people motivated to make positive change is unleashed. Since 1991, Dr. Jane and JGI’s Roots & Shoots have inspired generations of young people like you to grow up knowing you have the power to create change. Today, in the face of challenging times, you are a beacon of hope and we want your spark to light up the whole world.

The RSNYLC is your chance to be part of a group of passionate young leaders from around the United States to learn, grow your spark, and collaborate. What’s more, members of the RSNYLC create friendships and memories that last a lifetime.

Want to be the next Roots & Shoots All-Star in a future RSNYLC? Make sure to sign up to be a Roots & Shoots member (it’s always FREE) to be eligible, and stay tuned for more coming soon…

Get to Know the Current RSNYLC

These compassionate leaders are making a splash.
Meet the RSNYLC

When you join the RSNYLC, you will:

  • Gain essential, resume building skills in service learning to create impactful community projects;
  • Grow compassionate leadership traits to support other young people in being changemakers;
  • Receive mentorship and professional development from influential leaders and experts across fields;
  • Obtain media training and learn how to use digital tools to inspire action;
  • Learn how to tell your story, present on issues you care about, and connect people to your passions;
  • Participate in training including interviewing and public speaking to represent Roots & Shoots across the country (and in some instances, globally!) for events and media and;
  • Inspire this and the next generation to take action on behalf of people, other animals and the environment we share.

Who we’re looking for:

  • Young people ages 12-18 (grades 8th-11th), who are current residents of the United States. (*must be a U.S. resident).
  • Inspired young changemakers, especially Roots & Shoots members, who are doing a project to solve a problem, and/or part of a local Roots & Shoots group or other organizations.
  • Youth members who are passionate about the work of Roots & Shoots and the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), excited about being mentors to the Roots & Shoots network and to act as the youth voice of JGI.

Sign Up for Updates

Make sure to be the first to know about future RSNYLC opportunities!

RSNYLC in the News

I remember growing up thinking that I didn’t have any role models that looked like me, or who had the same struggles I did. I hope to be a role model for first generation citizens to show that we do make a difference.

Elizabeth “Eli” Avila Ramirez Santa Barbara, CA
Share this
About Roots & Shoots

We are nurturing the compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

Get To Know Our Model

New Report

Close