Youth activist toolkit
Overview
Looking to level up your activism? You've come to the right place for all the resources you need to stand up for human rights at your school or university.
Resource details
Publication date
Resource types
What is an Amnesty Student or Youth group?
How to guides
Whether you’re starting a new group, planning a campaign, or looking for new ways to get more members, start by checking out our tried and tested advice based on previous youth group's experiences.
How to start a new youth group
Activists showing solidarity during Donald Trump's 2025 UK visit. © Marie-Anne Ventoura
Find out how to start a youth group at your school or college and take action on human rights with other young people. We’ll send you practical resources, campaign ideas and support to help you set up and run your group.
How to get new members
Amnesty youth activists holding up placards in support of our Climate Justice work.
Here are some tips for recruiting more youth group members, including running an effective stall, creating eye‑catching banners, and combining actions with fundraising.
How to hold your first meeting
Running regular group meetings is a great way to support planning, and drive impact.
This is a practical guide to running a well-planned first meeting, with clear goals, member involvement and a strong focus on taking action.
How to keep up interest
Winners of the 2014 Amnesty Youth Awards
This is a practical guide to keeping up interest after your first meeting with subsequent meetings, event planning and more top tips.
How to invite an Amnesty Speaker to visit your school
A guest speaker at one of our Slamnesty events.
Learn about how to invite an Amnesty activist educator to talk about human rights to your school or group.
How to lobby politicians
Amnesty youth activists discussing the Arms Trade Treaty with a Member of Parliament
This is a practical guide to lobbying your elected representatives in Westminster, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast and Europe.
How to fundraise at your school
An Amnesty student group holding a fundraiser at their school in support of our work on refugee and migrant rights.
People from all walks of life raise money for Amnesty International UK and youth fundraisers are some of the most creative we have! Discover our top tips here.
How to make a banner
Amnesty youth groups holding a banner at our 2014 AGM.
Attract attention and get your message across by following our simple steps to make a banner - no artistic experience required!
How to write a press release
An Egyptian youth activist updates her Facebook page during the 2011 protests
This is a practical guide from our Press Office on how to get great media coverage by writing a press release and targeting key media.
How to write letters
Writing a letter to an individual at risk can be a great way to show solidarity and support.
Lastly, this is a practical guide to writing letters and emails that make a real impact - plus proof that it works!
Further guidance
If you’d like advice on planning your next campaign or help with your group contact us:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 020 7033 1596
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Youth Fundraising GuideA guide for young people interested in organising fundraising events in school and elsewhere.
Fundraising resource, Information guide 19 Mar 2025 -
How to host a fundraising concert at your school or collegeWhy not host a fundraising concert for Amnesty? Invite bands, choirs, or individual acts to perform some of the protest songs that you or your friends have written. It would make a great concert for human rights. This guide will help you plan it!
Further education resources, Fundraising resource, Information guide, Secondary education resources 07 Aug 2014
Related content
Explore guides, templates and more to support your activism and fundraising goals...
Join a group or network, connect on our community platform, or become a member and stand for human rights...
The simple act of sending an email to your MP, signing a petition or posting a letter can protect our rights or help save someone's life. Explore how you can help add your name to our causes and make a real impact.