About AAPF

Founded in 1996, The African American Policy Forum (AAPF) is an innovative think tank that connects academics, activists, and policy-makers to promote efforts to dismantle structural inequality. We utilize new ideas and innovative perspectives to transform public discourse and policy. We promote frameworks and strategies that address a vision of racial justice that embraces the intersections of race, gender, class, and the array of barriers that disempower those who are marginalized in society. AAPF is dedicated to advancing and expanding racial justice, gender equality, and the indivisibility of all human rights, both in the U.S. and internationally.

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About the Young Scholars Program (YSP)
Launched in 2020, AAPF’s Young Scholars Program is a multi-phase research and leadership initiative dedicated to cultivating a pipeline of young Black women and girls (ages 17–22) as thought leaders, researchers, and public intellectuals. The program begins with an intensive six-week summer institute, where participants explore  Black feminist theory, critical race theory, and intersectional research methodologies. Following the summer institute, scholars engage in extended mentorship, research opportunities, and public-facing initiatives through AAPF’s year-round programming.

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YSP is grounded in the principle that young Black women and girls are uniquely  positioned to assess the conditions of their lives and to advocate for systems and policies that support their holistic well-being.
 

Young Scholars Program Manager Role Summary

The Young Scholars Program Manager will serve as the lead facilitator, coordinator, and visionary of the Young Scholars Program. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape and expand a flagship initiative dedicated to cultivating the next generation of Black feminist thought leaders, researchers and public intellectuals.

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The ideal candidate is a visionary and highly organized leader who excels at program design, cross functional coordination, and adept at cultivating meaningful relationships with young scholars and external partners. They will bring a deep commitment to youth empowerment, Black feminist values and educational equity, coupled with the ability to translate these commitments into impactful programming and measurable outcomes. Importantly, the Program Manager will lead with a trauma-informed approach, recognizing and honoring the lived experience of young people navigating the compounded impacts of misogynoir. racialized harm and gender violence. 

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This position requires a dynamic mentor, skilled facilitator, knowledgeable researcher and strategic planner who thrives in a fast-paced, intellectually rigorous, and justice-centered environment. This role is a hybrid based role, based in AAPF’s New York City office and will report directly to the Director, Programs. This role will require occasional local travel for events and community partnerships.
 

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Key Responsibilities

Program Management & Development

• Lead the strategic planning, execution, and evaluation of the Young Scholars Program to ensure its growth, impact and alignment with AAPF’s mission. 

• Design and implement culturally responsive and informed curricula that center Black feminist theory, intersectionality, and youth-centered participatory research. 

• Oversee all program logistics including the summer institute and year-round workshops, events, and scholar gatherings, that center a strong participant experience.

• Manage program budgets, timelines, vendor relationships, and documentation with attention to impact and centering fiscal responsibility.

 

 

Youth Engagement & Support

• Facilitate an empowering, inclusive, and intellectually rigorous learning environment. 

• Provide individualized mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities to support  scholars’ academic, leadership and professional growth. Maintain ongoing alumni engagement and lead efforts to strengthen and expand  the YSP network.

 

Strategic Partnerships & Communications

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with educators, community organizations, guest lecturers, and strategic partners to enhance program offerings and opportunities for scholars. 

• Represent the Young Scholars Program at conferences, panels, and outreach events to raise its profile and foster new partnerships. 

• Partner with AAPF’s Communications and Development teams to elevate YSP’s visibility.

Evaluation & Reporting

• Co develop and implement impact assessment tools to track scholar outcomes and program effectiveness with AAPF’s Data team 

• Collect, analyze, and report data to inform program improvements and demonstrate outcomes to internal and external stakeholders. 

• Prepare regular reports and presentations for AAPF leadership, funders, and partners, highlighting successes, challenges, and strategic recommendations to guide future growth.

 

Qualifications​

Education & Experience

• Master’s degree required; preferred in the fields of Education, Black/Africana Studies, Gender Studies, Public Policy, Social Work, or a related field.

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in youth program coordination, education, nonprofit work, or research settings.

• Experience working directly with Black youth and/or communities of color.
   

Skills & Competencies

• Deep knowledge of intersectionality, Black feminist thought, and racial justice frameworks.

• Strong curriculum design, facilitation, and mentorship skills.

• Excellent organizational and project management abilities.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a mission-driven environment.
  Excellent verbal and written communication.
   

Attributes

• Passion for cultivating leadership in Black girls and young women.

• Cultural humility, empathy, and creativity.

• Commitment to liberation-centered education and social change.

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Compensation

• The salary for the position will $65,000 - $75,000

• Generous benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, and professional development.

• Access to a vibrant and visionary team of social justice leaders, thinkers, and advocates.

 

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter describing your interest and qualifications, and three professional references with the subject line "YSP Manager Application" to careers@aapf.org.

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The African American Policy Forum (AAPF) is an equal opportunity employer that values a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are committed to building a team that reflects a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and we strongly encourage applications from individuals who have historically been underrepresented in nonprofit, academic, and policy work.

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AAPF prioritizes the employment of people of color, women, individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those with lived experiences that align with our mission. We believe that diversity in all forms enhances our ability to achieve our organizational goals and fosters a work environment where every individual can thrive. We welcome applicants who bring different perspectives and experiences, as we work to advance social justice and racial equity in all aspects of our programming and advocacy.

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If you are committed to advancing racial and social justice and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply.

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