News and Stories

On August 28–29, 2026, the UC San Diego Center for Community Health’s Youth Advancement Collective (YAC) hosted its second annual Public Health Investigators (PHI) Camp. Building on the success of last year’s inaugural camp, this two-day experience welcomed 21 youth for an immersive introduction to public and global health, where participants learned from diverse public health professionals and speakers while exploring pathways into the field.

Led by YAC Program Managers Asmaa, Nghi, and Segen, the PHI Camp was designed to expand youth access to public health opportunities while building practical skills, professional networks, and confidence to explore future educational and career pathways. Through interactive presentations, hands-on activities, peer engagement, and group discussions, participants connected public health concepts to the communities and issues they care about.

This year’s camp explored a range of public health themes, including public and global health systems thinking, social determinants of health, mental health, community health justice, data and research, epidemiology, digital health, and human-centered design. Throughout the two days, UC San Diego faculty, public and mental health professionals, youth presenters, and the YAC team created interactive learning experiences that encouraged participants to ask questions, collaborate, and think critically about real-world health challenges.

Youth put their learning into practice through activities such as investigating simulated disease outbreaks, exploring how health professionals can respond intentionally to public health challenges, and listening to a college and career pathways panel. These experiences gave participants opportunities to learn from one another, build connections, and see the many different ways they can contribute to improving the health and well-being of their communities.

The camp concluded with a certificate ceremony celebrating each participant’s completion, engagement, and contributions throughout the two-day experience. Beyond introducing youth to the field of public health, PHI Camp created space for participants to recognize their own potential as future leaders, advocates, researchers, and changemakers.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all of the presenters, speakers, youth facilitators, partners, and volunteers who shared their knowledge, experiences, and time with our participants. Most importantly, we thank the 21 youth participants for bringing their curiosity, perspectives, and enthusiasm to the YAC PHI Camp. Their questions, ideas, and engagement made the experience truly meaningful. 

As we look ahead, the YAC team will continue creating opportunities that connect young people with public health professionals, strengthen youth leadership, and support the next generation of public health leaders.

To learn more about the Youth Advancement Collective and our upcoming programs and opportunities, please visit our website here: https://communityhealth.ucsd.edu/work/youth-advisory-council