About Us

Us.

Our name comes from the Latin phrase “Amicus Curiae” , meaning “Friend of the Court.” In the legal world, an amicus is someone who offers insight, speaks up, and brings important perspectives to help shape justice, even if they’re not a party in the case. That’s who we are, and who you can be.At Amicus Youth, every student is empowered to be a friend of the court, a voice in the room, and an advocate for what’s right. You don’t need a law degree or a title. All you need is your voice, your curiosity, and your courage to speak out.

This is more than a name.
It’s a movement.

Our Why

Too many students grow up thinking law and advocacy are only for adults or professionals. At Amicus Youth, we believe young people deserve the tools, training, and confidence to speak up and shape the future.

Our Mission and Vision

Vision

A generation that understands the law, and knows how to use it for good.

Mission

To educate and empower youth through legal literacy, civic advocacy, and leadership opportunities.

My Story

Growing up, I was always drawn to speaking out, whether it was through debate, a political argument, or just asking the hard questions. On my first day of kindergarten, I got sent home for yelling at my teacher because she said we couldn’t talk about "real-world problems" in class. But it was during my time as a Virginia Senate Page in 8th grade that I realized the law isn't just a set of rules, it's a tool. A tool that shapes lives, policies, and power. At the same time, I was becoming deeply aware of how voices like mine, young people, children of immigrants, and advocates for overlooked global issues, were often dismissed or ignored. My passion for advocating for Armenia, especially around the conflict in Artsakh and the broader human rights crisis, showed me just how hard it can be to get others to care about something unless you know how to speak the language of power: law and advocacy.

I created Amicus Youth because I believe youth don't need permission to understand the world, speak with authority, or shape their futures. Too often, people think law is only for the privileged, or that you have to wait until you’re older to matter. I want to break that. I want more young people, especially those who are overlooked or underestimated, to realize they belong in the courtroom, the legislature, and every room where decisions are made. You don’t need to wait until you’re 30 or in law school to get involved in justice. You can start now.

And if you’re here, you probably believe that too.

Welcome to the movement.

-Ani Nishanian, Founder of Amicus Youth

Our Core Values

At Amicus Youth, we value....

Empowerment

Every student can lead with the right tools

Justice

Fairness isn’t a concept. It’s a responsibility.

We believe in doing - mock trials, real advocacy, community impact

Action