On today’s episode, Nia West-Bey talks to Oliver, Penji’s Partnership Advisor, about her journey as Executive Director of the National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy. Together, they explore how the TIP Collaborative spun off from a larger organization to become a truly youth-centered advocacy force, why centering the voices of young people—especially those furthest from power—leads to stronger solutions, and how intergenerational collaboration can prepare us for a more equitable future.
Here are three things you’ll learn in this episode:
How the TIP Collaborative empowers young people to shape policies, from guaranteed income to foster care reform.
Nia shares how the collaborative creates real opportunities for youth—especially those who’ve been historically excluded—to co-design and advocate for programs that directly impact their lives. From guaranteed income pilots to changes in foster care systems, she explains how putting young people at the table leads to more relevant, impactful policies.
Why centering marginalized youth voices creates better outcomes for all communities.
The conversation highlights that when solutions are built with the insights of those most affected, everyone benefits. Nia gives examples of how youth-driven initiatives not only improve equity but also strengthen whole communities by making systems more inclusive, responsive, and effective.
What it means for older leaders to step back, listen, and build intergenerational movements for long-term change.
Nia reflects on the importance of humility and shared leadership. She discusses how older generations can support emerging leaders by listening deeply, providing resources, and creating space rather than control. This intergenerational collaboration ensures the sustainability of movements for justice and equity.
About Nia West-Bey and National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy:
- Website: https://www.typcollaborative.org/
- Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nia-west-bey-7b6a605b/