About Youth Empowerment Network
Youth Empowerment Network is a Minnesota-based nonprofit created to support youth through mentorship, prevention education, skill-building, and community connection. Our work is rooted in barbershop culture a place where real conversations happen, confidence is built, and young people can find guidance from trusted adults.
We serve youth and families across Minneapolis, the Twin Cities, and surrounding Minnesota communities by creating safe spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow. Through consistent programs and community events, we help youth build leadership, strengthen decision-making, and stay focused on positive goals.
Our team is made up of barbers and community mentors from diverse backgrounds. Many of our mentors share lived experiences and lessons learned to help youth understand real-life consequences, avoid harmful choices, and believe in their ability to build a better future.
Our Mission Statement
Our mission is to empower youth across Minnesota through mentorship, leadership, prevention education, and skill-building rooted in barbershop culture. We motivate young people, provide guidance on how to succeed as barbers and future business owners, and lead by example through consistent community service. We believe every young person can “shine” in their own way whether in barbering, school, sports, art, or entrepreneurship.
We also commit to honest conversations about real-life pressures like drugs, alcohol, and peer pressure, helping youth understand consequences and make better choices. By sharing life stories from barbers and mentors of diverse backgrounds, we create safe spaces where youth feel supported, gain confidence, and grow into leaders who strengthen Minnesota communities.
Our Vision Statement
Our vision is a Minnesota where every young person has access to positive mentors, safe spaces, and real opportunities to grow. We aim to expand our youth mentorship and prevention programs across the Twin Cities and beyond, build strong partnerships with schools and community organizations, and create clear pathways for youth to develop skills, leadership, and long-term success.
We envision youth who are confident, supported, and prepared youth who make positive choices, contribute to their communities, and become the next generation of leaders.