Laney College proudly welcomed the 2025 graduating class of the APIs Mobilize Youth Leadership Program with a heartfelt celebration in the Laney Bistro this July. The program was held on Laney College's campus for the full six weeks, bringing high school juniors and seniors from across the East Bay together for immersive learning in leadership, civic engagement, and community empowerment.
The graduation event honored 21 exceptional students who completed the program. Attendees enjoyed inspiring speeches from student leaders, scholarship presentations from the Cal Cities API Caucus and the API School Board Member Association, and keynote remarks from Oakland City Council District 2 representative Charlene Wang. Laney College President Dr. Rebecca Opsata joined the celebration, underscoring the college’s long-standing support for youth empowerment programs across the region.
The program is a collaboration led by Laney College's APASS program and Dr. David Lee, and this year’s programming featured an array of dynamic guest speakers. Former Oakland Mayor Jean Quan led impactful sessions on Asian American history and civil rights, and Alameda County Supervisor Nikki Fortunato Bas shared insights into the role of local government in advancing equity. Additional sessions focused on skill-building in public speaking and exploring timely topics like artificial intelligence.
The program’s success was also reflected in the energy and enthusiasm captured by student ambassadors on social media, who documented memorable highlights throughout the summer.
Laney College is honored to continue hosting and supporting the APIs Mobilize Youth Leadership Program—helping to cultivate the next generation of community-minded leaders.