Sending a big congratulations to our Youth Law Academy graduates of 2021, who graduated on May 30.

Over the last three years, our students have impressed us and our community with their passion, intellect, persistence and dedication to the YLA and their work experience. They have endured a rigorous program of after school classes, internships, college readiness and mentoring. And with a pandemic, they were able to overcome and achieve. We see this group not just as students but as part of the Centro Legal family, and the next generation of leaders in law, and all sectors of our society, here they come!

To support the Youth Law Academy, make a donation today at centrolegal.org/donate.

YLA Grad Highlights!

Nyla Raffety
California State University San Francisco, Class of 2025

“I am grateful for the education and experience that I receive from the Youth Law Academy. I got to go to places like the ninth circuit and meet so many people, judges, and lawyers, that I would never have been able to connect without YLA. Next year, I will be attending San Francisco State University, pursuing a double major in Psychology and African Studies. 

I appreciate Richard, Raymundo, Bryan, Dennyce, all the lawyers and judges, and all my mentors who played a role in my success. They have motivated and inspired me to continue following my dreams to become an attorney.”

Juan Lopez
University of Pennsylvania, Class of 2025

“I am grateful for the experience the Youth Law Academy gave me. They taught me so much about law and how we can use social justice to fight current oppressive systems. I am really grateful for my mother who always believed in my ability to connect with people and motivated me to take on new opportunities. Because of that, I encourage my peers to get involved with programs like YLA. High school went by fast, so take this time to be with friends, find balance with your time and value the people around you as they will be there for you to overcome obstacles.”

Special Thanks to Our Youth Law Academy Funders