The Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is a FREE multi-day conference, held annually in Massachusetts and other states throughout the country. The forum is open for young adults with disabilities, ages 18-30 with any kind of disability. Priority acceptance will be offered to participants of the MassAbility NextGen Careers program, as well as new participants to YLF!
YLF 2025 will take place in-person from June 26th through June 28th at Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts.
Each YLF participant will explore themes of leadership and leave better prepared for future employment, post-secondary education, and independent living.
- Experience living on a college campus
- Hear from renowned keynote speakers
- Choose from a range of workshops on topics such as advocacy, disability pride, STEM careers, employability skills, education opportunities, independent living
- Participate in small group projects and discussion panels
- Share your concerns and ideas with your state legislators at the MA State House
- Attend the YLF Employer Forum
- Explore STEM careers (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math)
- Network with professionals
- Meet new people, build your community and have fun!
Watch Highlights from YLF 2023:
Participants, based upon age and experience apply to YLF either as a Delegate or Peer Leader.
Peer Leaders
Peer Leaders are Massachusetts young adults with a disability who are currently out of high school and are working and/or taking college classes. 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 must commit to extra training before the Youth Leadership Forum (more details TBA). Peer Leaders receive a $250 stipend for their work.
Delegates
Delegates are Massachusetts youth with a disability who are between the ages of 18-30 Delegates must want to develop self-advocacy and leadership skills, begin to plan career goals, and build a network of supporters and friends.
Program Contacts
Carol Murray
Youth Leadership Manager
She, Her, Hers
Phone: 617-556-4075 x150
Email: cmurray@pyd.org