APIs Mobilize's goal is to empower our next generation of leaders with the knowledge, skills and opportunities to become impactful changemakers in their community. 

In 2018, with the support and leadership of Aimee Eng, President of the Oakland Unified School District, we launched our Bay Area program to uplift Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander youth in the region.

Each summer, 25 Junior and Senior students from Bay Area high schools are invited to participate in a five-week youth leadership program. Through weekly seminars, participants engage with guest speakers from public service, elected office, and community-based organizations—gaining firsthand insight into advocacy, policy, and governance.

In partnership with local community colleges, our students also receive direct exposure to college admissions pathways, support resources, and information on academic programs. Students from participating community colleges have also engaged in our programming, helping to create a bridge between high school and higher education. These partnerships play a key role in strengthening the pipeline of AANHPI student leaders pursuing college and public service.

Throughout the program, students also take part in community outings, volunteer opportunities, and hands-on activities that help them explore and refine their passions. Workshops are designed to build confidence, discipline, and the skills necessary to prepare for college and beyond.

Our guest speakers serve as role models, and their lived experiences help students envision and pursue their own paths to success—grounded in identity, community, and leadership.

STUDENTS WILL

Learn the importance of leadership and youth in government.
Develop leadership skills, including public speaking and effective negotiation.
Engage with high-level professionals and elected officials.
Understand the tools for success in the professional world.
​Participate in a youth-driven advocacy campaign.
​A big thank you to our program partners:
 Aimee Eng, Former School Board Director OUSD, Laney College APASS Program, and Berkeley City College.​
The youth leadership program is also supported by Attorney General Rob Bonta and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond. Support also comes from  community organizations including Asian Pacific Islander Student Achievement (APISA), Asian Pacific Islander School Board Members Association (APISBMA), Lion Rock, AYPAL, and OCA - East Bay.

BAY AREA MYLP 2025

Session Dates: June 14, June 21, June 28, July 5, and July 12
Time: Saturday's from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm PST
Program Graduation: July 13th, 2025
Location: Oakland, CA

Lunch will be provided at each session

​The first 20 admitted students will receive a $150 scholarship. All other participants will have the opportunity to apply for additional scholarships throughout the program.

Application Deadline: April 27th, 2025
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Please view our FAQ page for support on your application.
For additional questions or accommodation requests, please contact Angel Lin at [email protected].