Logo – young people in action

Paving The Road For Leadership Excellence!

Young People in Action International

The Symbol of Unity, Strength, and Purpose

In 1990, the Young People in Action International logo was envisioned by Asad Shabazz, the YPA Leadership Council, and artist Luther Johnson—a timeless symbol of connection, resilience, and unwavering support.

Key Highlights:

Two figures seem apart but are bound together
A young Black man and a young Black woman, facing opposite directions
They are connected at the jugular—the lifeline of existence
Symbolizes unity, resilience, and strength
Represents guardianship & leadership

They watch different horizons, yet their bond is unbreakable.

This logo is more than an image—it is a promise. A promise that young people will rise together, uplift one another, and pave the road to leadership excellence with unity, wisdom, and an unshakable foundation of love.

A Divine Calling: The Hand of Allah in Our Mission

Life is a fleeting breath, a moment between creation and return. We walk this earth with purpose, though we do not always see the path ahead. Yet, when the Almighty speaks, when the signs are placed before us, we must listen. We must rise.

In 2017, after years of suffering, surgeries, and unimaginable pain, I—Asad Shabazz—entered an operating room, unaware that I would leave my body behind.
My heart stopped. My spirit stood at the threshold of eternity, and the doctors, guided by the hand of Allah, refused to let go.
By His will, I was pulled back into the land of the living. Yet, life without purpose is no life at all.

“O Allah, You have given me back my life. But what is a life if not lived in Your service? Show me, what would You have me do?”

And then, the answer appeared—not in thunder, nor in fire, but in the gentlest of signs. A cup of ice water, resting beside me, began to sweat. Droplets fell upon a sheet of paper, forming an image before my eyes. My heart stilled. My hands trembled.

The Revelation & Purpose

There, on that simple piece of paper, emerged the unmistakable shape of the Young People in Action International logo—the same symbol we had created in 1990, the emblem of unity, of brotherhood and sisterhood, of strength bound together by purpose. I knew, in that sacred moment, that my work was not done.
This is not just my story—it is our story. It is the story of every young soul seeking guidance, of every leader in the making, of every generation that must rise and carry the torch.
We are not separate; we are bound together at the lifeline, just as the figures in our logo stand—watching, protecting, guiding one another through the trials of this world.

Will you walk this path with us?

There is much work to be done, and many ways to serve. If you are unsure how, reach out—we will find a way together.