Future Leaders Take the Stage at YAG Pre-Legislative Session - April 2025 Newsletter

Zayn Jaber (Monroe) 2025 Youth Governor, Youth and Government Program

On Sunday, March 23, the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (NJYSA), in collaboration with YAG alumni and a dedicated group of volunteers, proudly hosted the 2025 Youth and Government Pre-Legislative Session at Rider University. The event brought together over 300 youth delegates from across the state for a day of learning, leadership, and civic engagement.

Throughout the day, delegates rotated through interactive workshops, participated in committee sessions, and engaged in issue-focused discussions spanning topics such as sustainability, education, advocacy, human services, and the judicial system. First-year participants attended specialized sessions to orient them to the legislative process, while candidates for the 2026 conference delivered passionate “Whistle Stop” campaign pitches during the working lunch hour.

The event concluded with a student-led Gubernatorial Press Conference and closing remarks, where youth leaders showcased the critical thinking and communication skills they’ve been building through the program. A special thank-you goes out to our volunteers, alumni, Rider University staff, and YMCA and participating school advisors who made the day possible. Your commitment to youth leadership and civic responsibility is what makes YAG thrive.

As we look ahead, excitement is building for the Annual Youth and Government Conference, taking place April 25–27, 2025, where more than 400 student delegates will gather to continue their work addressing real-world issues affecting New Jersey residents.