Our mission is to ensure equitable access to journalism opportunities for New York City’s youth.

YJC student leader Derry Oliver speaks at a press conference outside of City Hall on April 18, 2024. Photo by Dulce Marquez

New York City is the media capital of the world, but only 1/4 of its public high schools have student newspapers.

We are committed to changing that.

With members from schools, universities, nonprofits, technology companies and media outlets across New York City, the YJC is working to ensure that all of the city’s young people have opportunities to tell important stories and develop the skills to pursue media careers.

FEATURED STUDENT REPORTING

Missing Voices

This four-part limited series from the Miseducation podcast digs into the unequal landscape of youth journalism in New York City. A team of five high school student reporters criss-cross the city examining how and why the gap exists — and what can be done to address it.

Listen to Miseducation anywhere you get podcasts.

What members are saying:

  • "I often had my opinions overlooked due to the fact that I’m a teenager. However, through the YJC I am able to channel my journalistic passion, and the most important of all, be heard."

    Alex Chen
    NYC high school journalist

  • “The YJC is important to the journalism landscape of New York City because it uniquely addresses equity gaps in student journalism programs and provides solutions on a systemic level."

    Lyric Thomas, Pace University student

  • “News deserts are widening, and student reporters can fill those gaps. They need our perpetual support to keep people in power accountable.”

    Yelena Dhazonova, NYC-based reporter