New York, NY
Josiah Martinez joined YouthBuild Northern Manhattan, hosted by Northern Manhattan Improvement Coalition (NMIC), in October 2025. Due to housing instability, food insecurity, and mental health challenges within the home, he faced significant barriers that made it difficult to succeed in a traditional school setting. During YouthBuild orientation, Josiah shared, “I want to join YouthBuild to push myself out of my comfort zone and support others in their goals.”
Since joining the program, Josiah has exceeded expectations and has become a strong advocate for young people facing similar challenges. Josiah was a finalist in the New York City Department of Education’s Soapbox Competition, a citywide competition in which students write and deliver a speech on an issue that is important to them. Josiah spoke powerfully about housing insecurity and the importance of supporting young people facing challenges stemming from not having a stable place to call home. Josiah also participated in advocacy efforts, including testifying before the New York City Council Committee on Children and Youth and speaking at a rally outside City Hall in support of continued funding for YouthBuild programs across New York City.
During his time in YouthBuild, Josiah earned his Customer Service Certification, obtained his High School Equivalency diploma, and began a paid internship. He is active as an alumni ambassador and serves as a peer mentor for the current YouthBuild Northern Manhattan cohort. Josiah is currently pursuing his long-term goal to work in social services as a social worker, providing guidance and support to underrepresented communities.
“When I made the decision to join YouthBuild, I was looking to gain practical skills and work toward real goals,” says Josiah. “What I didn’t realize at the time was how much it would shape me as a person. The program pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone. It taught me discipline, showing up on time, staying consistent, and putting in effort even on days when motivation wasn’t there.”
