FYP Code of Conduct

Our Theory of Change

We believe personal flourishing drives collective transformation. Through these commitments, we build a movement that proves youth supporting youth changes everything.

Agency

Our power begins with self-love

1. We commit to radical self-love and self-actualization.

We fiercely prioritize our mental health and well-being, making self-love and self-actualization our highest priority while supporting others in doing the same, because we know systemic change begins with personal flourishing.

Individuals with higher levels of self-acceptance and self-actualization demonstrate greater resilience, lower rates of anxiety and depression, and increased capacity for social impact (Ryff & Singer, 2008; Maslow, 1971).

Read More: "The Body Is Not an Apology" by Sonya Renee Taylor & "Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs" research

2. We commit to mindful presence.

We engage fully with our work, stay aware of our energy levels, and make conscious choices about our commitments. By practicing presence, we build deeper connections and make more intentional impact, staying grounded in the here and now.

Read More: "The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook" by Kristin Neff & Christopher Germer

3. We commit to growth resilience.

We embrace challenges as opportunities, learn from setbacks, and build sustainable support systems. Understanding that change requires courage, we cultivate a growth mindset and develop our capacity to bounce back stronger while supporting others' resilience.

Read More: "Growth Mindset" by Carol Dweck & "Grit" by Angela Duckworth

Authenticity

Because being real is revolutionary

4. We commit to enriching work and meaningful engagement.

We choose devote time to work that enrich our lives, and say no to what drains us. Recognizing that purposeful action feeds our souls, we contribute in ways that energize rather than deplete us.

Read More: "The Happiness Trap" by Russ Harris & "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl

5. We commit to authentic expression, boundary protection, and self-advocacy.

We share our genuine thoughts, honor our cultural practices, and create space for unique voices. We firmly establish and maintain healthy boundaries, advocate for our needs, and support others in doing the same. Through this authenticity and self-protection, we build genuine trust and sustainable connections.

Read More: "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown & "Set Boundaries, Find Peace" by Nedra Glover Tawwab

Compassion

Because kindness transforms everything

6. We commit to radical self-compassion.

We practice deep kindness toward ourselves, embracing our humanity including our imperfections and struggles. Through mindful self-acceptance, gentle self-care, and recognition of our common humanity, we build sustainable foundations for both personal growth and collective action. We treat ourselves with the same understanding we would offer a dear friend.

Read More: "Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself" by Kristin Neff & "The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion" by Christopher Germer

7. We commit to radical compassion for others.

We extend deep understanding and care to all people, recognizing our shared humanity beyond differences. Through non-violent communication, active listening, and empathetic engagement, we transform conflicts into connections and build supportive communities. We approach all interactions with curiosity and kindness, knowing that everyone carries their own struggles. Read More: "Nonviolent Communication" by Marshall Rosenberg & "The Art of Communicating" by Thich Nhat Hanh

Openness

Because growth requires curiosity

8. We commit to critical awareness and transparency.

We question assumptions, evaluate information thoughtfully, and consider multiple perspectives. We maintain radical transparency in our processes and decision-making, fostering trust through open dialogue and honest communication. Read More: "Critical Theory and Social Justice" by Iris Marion Young & "Teaching Critical Thinking" by bell hooks

9. We commit to cultural humility and inclusive practice.

We respect different ways of being, learn from other traditions, and build inclusive communities. Recognizing that diversity strengthens us, we actively make space for various expressions of flourishing and challenge our own cultural assumptions. Read More: "Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain" by Zaretta Hammond & "How To Be An Antiracist" by Ibram X. Kendi

Joy

Because joy is a form of resistence

10. We commit to revolutionary joy, play, and purpose.

We make space for play, find pleasure in our work, and celebrate our impact. Understanding that joy is resistance, we build movements that nurture happiness while creating change. We integrate purpose and meaning into our work, recognizing that true joy comes from alignment with our deepest values. Read More: "Pleasure Activism" by adrienne maree brown & "Play" by Stuart Brown

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"We practice these commitments not as rules to follow, but as pathways to liberation. Together, we prove that authenticity, agency, and compassion always triumph."