BLACK YOUTH EMPOWERMENT NETWORK
Building America's Network of Young Black Leaders
Empowering the next generation through education, mentorship, and community building.
Building America's Network of Young Black Leaders
Empowering the next generation through education, mentorship, and community building.
BYEN is a community of advocates, changemakers, and trailblazers united not by status or title, but by a shared energy for change, growth, and leadership — a home for young Black people ready to build, lead, and push their communities forward.
BYEN connects Black youth to opportunities, resources, and a supportive community, strengthening their personal and professional development and equipping them to create meaningful change.
A future where Black youth are fully supported in becoming leaders who thrive professionally, socially, intellectually, and beyond.
Supported By
Recognized with a Lux Award for Best Registered Student Organization for its leadership, campus presence, and commitment to empowering young Black leaders.
University of Georgia
Recognized on his initiation into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., reflecting his commitment to brotherhood, leadership, and service.
A four-week leadership development experience equipping emerging leaders to advance community safety, address gun violence, and explore community violence intervention strategies — with virtual learning and an in-person convening in Memphis, Tennessee.
The Black Youth Empowerment Network is guided by three foundational pillars embedded into every program, partnership, and initiative we run.
Impact is the difference between good intentions and real change — it's proof that effort translates into results people can see and feel. Without a clear, measurable impact, purpose risks becoming just a promise instead of a reality.
Founder Jay'Shun Mathews appeared on Atlanta News First to shed light on the ongoing gun violence epidemic affecting communities across the country, spotlighting a powerful youth-led advocacy event held in partnership with Students Demand Action.
Read the story
A powerful next step in equipping Black youth with the tools, community, and platform to lead with purpose — each chapter a local hub for leadership development, advocacy, and innovation.
Read the storyWe're here to support you every step of the way on your journey with BYEN.
Contact via E-Mail