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Digital Vanguard
Ava Smithing: Building Youth Voice and Power
A young leader discusses attention, student voice, and why young people need a meaningful role in shaping the culture and policies that affect their digital lives.
August 21, 2026 · 4-part video series
Young people belong in the conversation
Ava Smithing describes what changes when young people understand that their attention has value and that their experience belongs in public conversations about technology.
Youth voice is not an add-on. It gives families and decision-makers a clearer view of the pressures young people are navigating and the support they need.
What adults can support
- Create real opportunities for students to speak and lead.
- Help young people recognize persuasive design and reclaim their attention.
- Include youth perspectives when schools and communities set digital expectations.
- Connect individual experience to collective civic action.
Digital Vanguard video series
Watch the conversation in 4 focused chapters.
Chapter 01
Ava Smithing interview
Chapter 02
Building youth political power
Chapter 03
Helping students find their voice
Chapter 04