YES Institute’s Youth Empowerment Council (YEC)—a dynamic new initiative designed to strengthen the mental health, resilience, and leadership skills of LGBTQ+ youth ages 13–19, provides consistent, affirming programming through twice-monthly (Tuesdays and Fridays) virtual meetings and quarterly in-person community activities, engaging youth from across South Florida and beyond. The Council is built on a foundation of peer support, life coaching, goal-setting, and empowerment, with an intentional focus on social-emotional development and mental wellness.

YEC is designed to intervene early and consistently, offering students a safe space to grow their sense of personal agency, develop leadership skills, and build a vision for their future. Virtual sessions focus on emotional wellness, decision-making, self-advocacy, and college and career readiness. Quarterly in-person community events—such as volunteer opportunities with arts or cultural organizations—encourage participants to safely re-engage in public life and develop deeper social connections.

Understanding that safety is a primary concern for our youth, especially those who face frequent bullying or discrimination, the virtual structure of YEC offers an accessible and protective entry point. As participants grow more confident and connected, they are encouraged to step into in-person spaces and community activities with increased self-assurance.

Each session is guided by a trauma-informed, culturally responsive curriculum and facilitated by Nikolas Montolio, a neurodivergent transgender male educator who brings lived experience, empathy, and authenticity to his role. Under his guidance, youth engage in creative expression, communication coaching, guest speaker engagements, and structured leadership development activities that foster measurable growth in areas like self-responsibility, college preparedness, and resilience.

The mission of YES Institute’s Youth Empowerment Council is: To empower and coach youth to lead YES Institute’s education to support its vision of a community where all youth are free of suicide, violence, and discrimination.

Benefits of joining YEC:

• Service hours for all meeting and events
• Develop and strengthen leadership and communication skills
• Learn how to facilitate a powerful educational presentation
• Make a lasting impact in their peer community

Requirements to join YEC:

• Be between the ages of 13-18 years old
• Reside in the South Florida Counties of Miami-Dade, Broward or Palm Beach.
• Complete our Communication Solutions™ or our Communication Toolbox course
• Complete the YEC application (see below)
• Parent/Guardian signs the YEC Permission Form