Gerald Chertavian

Gerald Chertavian is a dedicated social entrepreneur and author, best known as the founder and CEO of Year Up, a nonprofit organization focused on closing the opportunity divide by providing young adults with skills, experience, and support to reach their potential. Born and raised in the United States, Chertavian’s career has been devoted to creating innovative solutions that empower underserved communities and foster economic equity.

Throughout his career, Gerald Chertavian has championed workforce development and education reform, emphasizing the importance of practical skills and mentorship to help young people succeed in today’s competitive job market. His leadership at Year Up has transformed the lives of thousands, offering a proven model that connects education with career opportunities in sectors like technology, finance, and customer service.

One of Gerald Chertavian’s inspiring quotes is: "Talent is evenly distributed, but opportunity is not." He also believes, "When we invest in young people and give them the tools to succeed, we change not only their lives but the future of our communities." These words capture his commitment to equity and the power of opportunity to unlock human potential.