Youth Leadership
Preparing youth with disabilities to lead, learn, and build pathways to careers and independence.
2026
Youth Leadership Forum(YLF)
The Youth Leadership Forum is a FREE conference for youth and young adults with disabilities held annually in Massachusetts and other states across the country. YLF participants build leadership skills and leave better prepared for future employment, higher education, and independent living.
YLF 2026 will take place in-person from June 25th through June 29th in Boston, Massachusetts.
- Experience living on a college campus in Boston.
- Hear from renowned keynote speakers.
- Select from a range of workshops on topics such as advocacy, disability pride, post-secondary education, career readiness, and independent living,
- Explore careers, network with professionals and gain access to valuable resources.
ApplyNow
Participants, based upon age and experience apply to YLF either as a Delegate or Peer Leader.
- Peer Leaders are Massachusetts young adults with a disability between the ages of 18-21
Peer Leaders assist in planning YLF activities, facilitate small group discussions, and group projects. Peer Leaders will be matched with a small cohort within the dormitory housing to provide mentoring and support to delegates.
*If selected, Peer Leaders receive a $500 stipend for their work. - Delegates are Massachusetts youth with a disability who are between the ages of 16-21.
Peer Leaders & Delegates
- Now accepting applications: Rolling admissions
- Once your application is reviewed, an interview will be scheduled
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