California Youth Leadership Forum For Students With Disabilities (YLF)
SAVE THE DATE
The 2027 Statewide YLF will be held July 16-23, 202
Discover Your Leadership Potential
The California Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) empowers youth and young adults with disabilities to become confident leaders, strong self-advocates, and active members of their communities. YLF is designed for California residents with disabilities ages 16–24 and provides opportunities to build leadership skills, explore future education and career pathways, and create lasting connections with peers and mentors.
At YLF, disability is recognized as a strength. Our program is built on the Independent Living philosophy of "Nothing About Us, Without Us." Youth and young adults with disabilities learn from one another through peer mentoring, shared experiences, and leadership opportunities. Together, delegates develop the confidence, knowledge, and skills to advocate for themselves and make a positive impact in their schools, workplaces, and communities.
Whether you're preparing for college, entering the workforce, or looking to strengthen your leadership skills, YLF provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where you can learn, grow, and lead.
Why Do We Call Participants "Delegates"
At YLF, participants are known as delegates because they represent something bigger than themselves. A delegate is someone chosen to participate, share their perspective, and contribute to a larger community.
YLF delegates represent the voices, experiences, and leadership of young Californians with disabilities.
Throughout YLF, delegates develop leadership skills, strengthen their self-advocacy, and build connections with peers from across California. They bring their unique experiences, ideas, and voices to every workshop, discussion, and activity.
Being selected as a YLF delegate is an opportunity to grow as a leader while representing the diversity, strength, and potential of California's disability community.
Every delegate has something valuable to contribute—and every voice matters.
No Cost to Participate
YLF is offered at no cost to delegates. Through public and private partnerships, the program covers transportation, meals, lodging for statewide events, and reasonable accommodations needed to fully participate. Our goal is to ensure every delegate has the support they need to succeed.
Who Can Participate
YLF programs are open to California residents with disabilities ages 16–24. Our statewide summer leadership forum is available to students ages 16–19 who are currently enrolled in school.
YLF welcomes delegates with all disability types, including disabilities recognized under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). We encourage applications from youth and young adults who are curious, motivated, and interested in developing their leadership skills, strengthening their self-advocacy, and making a difference in their communities. Previous leadership experience is not required—just a willingness to learn, participate, and grow.
Stay Connected
The YLF experience doesn't end when a program concludes. Stay connected with us throughout the year for program updates, leadership opportunities, alumni stories, application announcements, and highlights from our events across California.
Follow us on social media to see how YLF delegates are making a difference in their schools, workplaces, and communities—and to learn how you can get involved.
Instagram: @calylf
Facebook: California Youth Leadership Forum
YouTube: California Youth Leadership Forum
You can also contact us with questions about our programs, eligibility, or upcoming opportunities. We look forward to connecting with you!
Email: ylf@dor.ca.gov
Phone: 1-855-894-3436