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FYP Code of Conduct

Preamble

This Code of Conduct serves as both our ethical framework and operational guideline. It embodies our commitment to radical self-love, collective accountability, and youth empowerment while providing clear structures for governance and decision-making. Every rule and process exists to support our core mission: empowering youth to be authentic changemakers while prioritizing their well-being.

Core Values in Action

1. Agency & Self-Love

  • Personal well-being takes precedence over organizational goals
  • Members must actively protect their boundaries
  • All tasks and commitments are voluntary
  • No monetary incentives for core roles
  • Regular well-being check-ins required

2. Collective Accountability

  • Strike system enforces healthy boundaries
  • Task dependencies must be clearly communicated
  • Regular status updates required
  • Transparent decision-making processes
  • Community-driven enforcement

3. Compassionate Leadership

  • Non-violent communication required
  • Conflicts addressed through mediation
  • Support before sanctions
  • Learning-oriented feedback
  • Inclusive decision-making

4. Radical Openness

  • Transparent governance
  • Open documentation
  • Accessible knowledge sharing
  • Clear communication channels
  • Regular community updates

5. Joy & Authenticity

  • Fun integrated into work
  • Authentic expression encouraged
  • Celebration of successes
  • Humor in communication
  • Social connection valued

Operational Structure

A. Role Definitions & Transitions

FYP Associates

Rights:

  • Full voting rights
  • Project leadership
  • Resource access
  • Official affiliation

Responsibilities:

  • Attend bi-weekly meetings
  • Participate in decisions
  • Mentor others
  • Maintain active status
  • Update task status

FYP Assistants

Rights:

  • Project participation
  • Resource access
  • Learning opportunities
  • Community participation

Responsibilities:

  • Regular check-ins
  • Task completion
  • Communication
  • Learning engagement

B. Task Management System

Assignment Process

  1. Clear scope definition
  2. Capacity check
  3. Dependency mapping
  4. Timeline agreement
  5. Regular updates

Strike System

Purpose: Encourage self-awareness and boundary setting

Rules:

  1. Strike earned for:

    • Missed dependencies
    • Uncommunicated delays
    • Pattern of non-completion
  2. Consequences:

    • Three strikes → Intervention
    • Two more strikes → Disciplinary hearing
    • Hearing outcomes may include:
      • Role transition
      • Probation
      • Project reassignment
      • Temporary suspension
  3. Reset Period:

    • Strikes reset annually
    • Successful intervention clears 1 strike

C. Decision-Making Framework

Consensus Required (2/3 Majority)

  • Governance changes
  • Strategic roadmap
  • Associate approval
  • Identity changes
  • Partnership agreements

Simple Majority

  • Operational decisions
  • Project plans
  • Resource allocation
  • Event planning
  • Community initiatives

D. Community Protection

Underrepresented Youth Protections

  1. Representation Requirements

    • Minimum 40% leadership diversity
    • Multiple geographic regions
    • Various socioeconomic backgrounds
  2. Resource Allocation

    • Priority access to support
    • Flexible participation options
    • Technology assistance
    • Language support
  3. Safe Space Policies

    • Zero tolerance for discrimination
    • Active inclusion practices
    • Cultural sensitivity training
    • Accessibility requirements
  4. Voice Amplification

    • Protected speaking time
    • Dedicated platforms
    • Mentorship programs
    • Leadership pathways

E. Conflict Resolution

Three-Tier System

  1. Peer Mediation

    • Voluntary process
    • Trained peer mediators
    • Focus on understanding
    • Written agreements
  2. Formal Resolution

    • Independent committee review
    • Structured hearing process
    • Documentation required
    • Appeal options
  3. Emergency Response

    • Immediate intervention
    • Safety measures
    • External support
    • Follow-up required

Resolution Principles

  1. Non-violent communication
  2. Equal voice opportunity
  3. Focus on learning
  4. Restoration over punishment
  5. Community healing

Enforcement & Review

Regular Review Cycle

  • Quarterly policy review
  • Annual major updates
  • Community feedback sessions
  • Impact assessment

Enforcement Bodies

  1. Operation Team (daily)
  2. Independent Committee (escalations)
  3. Community Assembly (major issues)
  4. Independent Board (oversight)

Amendment Process

Proposal

  • Any Associate can propose
  • Written submission required
  • Community discussion period
  • Impact assessment needed

Ratification

  1. Committee review
  2. Community feedback
  3. Associate vote (2/3 required)
  4. Independent Board approval

This Code of Conduct is a living document that evolves with our community. It should be reviewed regularly and updated to reflect our growth and learning.