Purpose of the Exchange:

The Youth & Education Exchange was led by Congresswoman Barbara Lee (9^th District, CA) and Francisco Castillo, Chairman of the San Francisco Youth Commission, and was designed to create a meaningful interchange of ideas and innovations as a means for facilitating and fostering long-term relationships between the Bay Area and Sub-Saharan Africa. A special component of the larger trade and friendship mission - the Bay Area Africa Initiative - this Exchange offered delegates the opportunity to (a) share best practices for systems of service delivery for children, youth and families, (b) showcase new technologies and their applicability in the classroom and more broadly, (c) discuss innovative strategies for strengthening youth empowerment in a democratic society.

By Francisco Castillo, Chair of the San Francisco Youth Commission

From April 3-12, 1999, I joined Congress woman Barbara Lee and many other delegates on the Bay Area Africa Trade and Friendship Mission. The Youth and Education Exchange, designed by Joe Andrews, former Special Assistant to Mayor Brown, allowed us to have meaningful interchange of ideas and innovations as a means for facilitating and fostering long-term relationships between the Bay Area and Sub-Saharan Africa.

During my trip, I was able to meet with UNICEF Representatives of Ghana and South Africa and many other organizations. It was interesting for me to share my experience as a youth leader and to hear how both countries in Africa mobilize and organize youth to work on certain issues. In Accra, Ghana, I was able to participate in a Roundtable discussion with the Deputy Minister of Education along with other members of the President's Cabinet. Dr. Chambas, Deputy Minister of Education, shared with the delegation some of the country's successes, challenges and opportunities.

Future Direction

Entering its fourth year, the Youth Commission has proven the value and importance of youth voice. We remain dedicated to youth leadership and youth decision-making. The Commission will prioritize and tackle the critical issues facing San Franciscans. Former Commissioners say that the opportunity to work hands-on and take leadership roles in projects is the greatest learning experience. I am certain that this new Commission will continue the wonderful work of former Youth Commissions. The Youth Commission will return to holding community meetings and increase outreach efforts to link youth to city government and allow them the opportunity to advocate for themselves.

The Youth Commission has a strong base from which to build and will improve upon its already considerable accomplishments. The Youth Commission has been and continues to be committed to advocating for youth in city government as well as ensuring that youth use the Youth Commission as a resource to effect change. In addition to effecting current policy, the Youth Commission is a means for developing leadership skills in young people.