Challenges Faced by TAY
Many of the challenges that TAY report facing have been addressed in other parts of this document, however, some are included here again in bullet point format so that you can think through them individually.
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Public speaking
– the audience does not always understand why you are there
Solution:
- Prep the audience/organization on the purpose of including a TAY
- The TAY should not have to justify their existence at the meeting
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Leadership
– people do not recognize that leadership and public speaking go hand and hand
Solution:
- Support young people to develop the skills they need through attending conferences, trainings, and workshops
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Stigma
– “the audience automatically assumes that a I have been in the system, and I feel like the audience is wondering other personal things about me”
Solution:
- Support the young person to feel confident by assuring them that it is their life experience that gives them credibility
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Lack of trust
– this includes a lack of role models and healthy adult relationships
Solution:
- Take the time to develop a relationship based on open communication and support
- Serve as a resource to the young person
- Draw similarities between successful adults and the young person, showing them ways that they can connect and relate
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Disempowerment
– feeling less than an equal partner in meetings, committees, and boards
Solution:
- Be aware of ageist language and embedded perceptions
- Acknowledge the young person as an equal partner and actively engage them in the dialogue