Who are the young trailblazers in your community? The Root wants to know. We're putting the spotlight on the young African-Americans leaders and innovators of the future, and we want your help.

The Root is now accepting nominations for The Root 2012 Young Futurists list, to be unveiled in February. Young Futurists are between the ages of 16 and 21 and committed to making the world a better place in which to live. We're seeking candidates who are not only achievers but also innovators in the worlds of green innovation, science and technology, arts and culture, social activism and business enterprise. Previous Young Futurists have started nonprofits and invented unique technologies, among other creative and praiseworthy ventures.

Send your Young Futurist nominees to youngfuturists@theroot.com by Dec. 19. Please include their first and last names, their age, your name and contact information, their contact information (or that of a parent, guardian or teacher for those under the age of 18) and the reason you think they qualify. Then stay tuned as The Root announces the latest batch of Young Futurists in February.

Like The Root on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter.