A recent N&R Spotlight highlights the important intersection of youth leadership and community-based prevention efforts in addressing teen dating violence—an issue that continues to affect far too many young people. The article centers on student advocate Sonia Sharma and her work through the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls, where youth voices are helping shape forward-thinking policy recommendations focused on prevention, education, and accessibility.  

The piece also includes powerful insights from WEAVE CEO Beth Hassett, who underscores both the scale and urgency of the issue. With one in 12 high school students experiencing physical or sexual dating violence and a significant portion of WEAVE’s sexual assault response work involving minors, Hassett emphasizes that many young people lack models of healthy relationships and are increasingly navigating risks amplified by social media. Her perspective reinforces WEAVE’s commitment to prevention, early intervention, and supporting both youth and caregivers in recognizing warning signs and building safer communities. 

Read the full article here.