Join the Network
Building America's Network of Young Black Leaders
The Black Youth Empowerment Network brings together some of the nation's most promising, driven, and community-minded young Black leaders.
BYEN members are not defined only by titles, résumés, or past accomplishments. They are defined by their ambition, character, willingness to grow, and commitment to creating meaningful change.
Our members are students, organizers, advocates, entrepreneurs, creatives, professionals, and emerging leaders who believe their success should strengthen the communities around them.
Become a MemberOne Network. Two Types.
Every member belongs to one national network, engaging through one of two membership types.
At-Large Members
For young Black leaders who want to participate in BYEN's national network but do not currently attend a school or live in a community with an established chapter.
Chapter Members
Belong to an officially recognized BYEN chapter, with access to the national network plus local meetings, programs, service, and leadership opportunities.
One mission. One network. Multiple ways to engage.
The BYEN Member
BYEN members represent the next generation of Black leadership, committed to:
BYEN is not simply a network people join. It is a community members help build.
Why Join BYEN?
Membership connects young Black leaders to the people, experiences, and opportunities that can help them expand what they believe is possible.
- •Leadership development programs and workshops
- •Internships, scholarships, fellowships, and career opportunities
- •Mentorship and exposure to established professionals
- •National conferences, convenings, and special experiences
- •Community service and civic engagement initiatives
- •National and chapter leadership opportunities
- •A growing network of ambitious young Black leaders
- •Platforms to share their ideas, work, and perspectives
- •Collaborative opportunities with nonprofit, corporate, educational, and community partners
Opportunities may vary based on availability, eligibility, location, and program requirements.
What Makes BYEN Different?
BYEN is built by young Black leaders, for young Black leaders. We understand that talent is everywhere, but access, support, exposure, and opportunity are not always distributed equally.
BYEN exists to help close that gap by creating a national community where ambitious young people can find support, strengthen their leadership, build authentic relationships, and gain access to experiences that move them forward.
Our goal is to invest in emerging leaders, connect them, and help position them to transform their campuses, careers, communities, and the country.
Who Belongs in BYEN?
You do not need to have everything figured out, or the perfect résumé or an impressive title. You should be ready to learn, contribute, collaborate, and grow. Strong members demonstrate:
- •Ambition and a desire to improve
- •Commitment to the Black community
- •Interest in leadership and service
- •Curiosity and openness to new perspectives
- •Accountability and professionalism
- •A willingness to contribute to the network
- •A genuine desire to create positive change
Membership is selective because the strength of BYEN depends on the quality, commitment, and character of the people within it.
The Membership Experience
Member Development
Strengthening the personal, professional, and leadership capacity of every member.
Civic Engagement
Connecting members to advocacy, public service, civic action, and community decision-making.
Community Empowerment
Turning ideas, talents, and leadership into meaningful local and national impact.
More Than a Network
Members do more than receive opportunities — they share resources, build relationships, develop ideas, and lead initiatives that grow the network for everyone.
Ready to Join?
BYEN is building a powerful national community of young Black leaders who are prepared to grow, lead, and create change.
The next generation of leadership is already here. We are bringing it together.