A Labor of Love: Why I Founded Youth Democracy Institute

May 11, 2025

By Tralonne Shorter, Founder & CEO, Youth Democracy Institute

Starting the Youth Democracy Institute wasn’t just a professional decision—it was a deeply personal one. It was, and continues to be, a labor of love born from my journey as a mother.

Like many parents, I wanted more for my son—not just academically, but socially and civically. I wanted him to grow up knowing that leadership isn’t about waiting for permission. It’s about using your voice, understanding your values, and showing up for others—especially those who feel unseen.

By the time he was 10, my son had attended a national civic convention, joined advocacy meetings, met congressional leaders, and received letters of commendation from our governor and a sitting U.S. president. He had toured Virginia’s Capitol and historic sites, bringing textbook lessons to life—and he was already scoring advanced on the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) social studies assessment. These weren’t just extracurriculars—they were foundational experiences that shaped how he saw himself and his role in the world.

But what struck me most was what wasn’t available. Despite all this exposure, there were no leadership enrichment camps at his school. No programs to help students build civic knowledge, practice public speaking, or develop problem-solving skills. How are children supposed to become leaders in school, their communities, or one day the workplace—if we don’t teach or cultivate those abilities early?

That gap became the seed for the Youth Democracy Institute. I created YDI to give young people—starting as early as age 10—the tools, confidence, and community to become engaged citizens and courageous leaders. I wanted kids like my son to understand how government works, why their voices matter, and how to practice leadership before anyone tells them they’re too young to try.

Our core programs are modeled after the experiential learning I sought for him—hands-on, real-world opportunities that connect civic engagement with leadership development. Because I believe the two go hand in hand. One without the other leaves too many young people without the tools they need to thrive.

Today, my son is not only learning how to lead—he’s learning how to care. He’s thinking more about classmates who have a tough time fitting in because they learn differently, speak differently, or look differently. That’s what leadership looks like.

This Mother’s Day, I’m reflecting on the love, vision, and commitment it took to build something not just for my child, but for every child with the potential to lead. I’m celebrating every parent, caregiver, and mentor who believes in that same future.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Lean more at leadydi.org.

Support the Vision

Youth Democracy Institute was born from one mother’s belief that leadership starts early—and that every child deserves the chance to lead with courage, compassion, and confidence.

If this story moved you, help us expand our reach. Your tax-deductible donation, made through our fiscal sponsor (Social Good Fund), directly supports hands-on civic learning and youth leadership development for students ages 10–24.

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