Empowering the Next Generation: Meet Genesis Bautista, Youth Development Program Director
At IBA, we believe in the power of youth to create positive changes in their communities. That’s why we’re excited to welcome Genesis Bautista as our new Youth Development Program Director. With a strong background in nonprofit management, community engagement, and advocacy, Genesis brings a deep commitment to empowering young people and helping them thrive.
A Passion for Youth Development
Growing up in Roxbury, Genesis knows firsthand the transformative power of youth programs—she grew up participating in programs focused on skill-building, mentorship, and leadership. These experiences shaped her career, which has been dedicated to developing programs that support youth in building leadership skills, accessing educational opportunities, and preparing for future success. Genesis shared, “What helped me be more successful was having lots of experience that these youth programs provide—being able to get the experience early on.”
Genesis would harness the support of her community to inspire her throughout her education journey and go on to earn her undergraduate degree from College of the Holy Cross and an MPA from UMass Boston. Knowing she wanted to center safe spaces for young people to learn and express themselves she began her career by overseeing youth programming and organizational operations at Mothers for Justice & Equality and Someone Else’s Child.
In addition to her professional experience, Genesis brings a wealth of cultural and social awareness that deeply informs her approach to youth development. Having grown up within Boston’s Latino and multicultural community, she understands the unique challenges that young people in diverse communities’ face, and that each of them face unique circumstances, barriers and successes. "Although I come from the same community as many of the young people we’re serving, our lives can still be very different," she said.
A Vision for Growth and Empowerment
IBA’s Youth Development Program helps young people ages 14-18 build essential life and soft skills through academic support, job readiness, financial empowerment, arts and civic engagement. Under Genesis’ leadership, the program will continue to provide young people with the tools to succeed in school, think critically, grow their network, engage in advocacy, learn about financial literacy, and positively impact their communities—setting themselves up for future success.
Empowering youth means giving them the tools and the confidence to explore new possibilities. Her experience in community-based organizations has prepared her to grow the program, strengthen partnerships, and create new opportunities for our youth. Genesis aims to create an environment where young people feel comfortable challenging themselves and asking questions. By fostering an atmosphere of growth, creativity, and leadership, Genesis is leading the Youth Development Program to be a space where young people can fully realize their potential and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
Shaping the Future Together
IBA is thrilled to have Genesis leading the Youth Development Program, bringing fresh ideas and a dedication to social impact. With her guidance, we look forward to seeing young people in our community grow, excel, and become the leaders of tomorrow.
Genesis’ advice to young people looking to create change is simple yet powerful: “Accept the work and get to work. Consistency is key.” She aims to inspire our youth to embrace challenges and build resilience, developing a mindset that will drive them to reach their fullest potential. “My goal would be to help build the type of mentality where young people believe they can make a lasting impact,” she shares.
Interested in learning more about IBA’s Youth Development Program? Visit our website to see how we’re shaping a brighter future for our youth.
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