Youth Leadership Academy | Plan International USA Fellowship for Young Changemakers

 

The Plan International USA Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) is a year-long social impact fellowship designed by youth, for youth. It equips young changemakers with the skills, mentorship, and resources they need to turn bold ideas into meaningful action. At Plan, we believe young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today.

Hosted by Plan USA’s Youth Advisory Board, the Youth Leadership Academy invests in the next generation of advocates tackling critical social justice issues, with a strong focus on gender equity.

Why join the Youth Leadership Academy?

• Build practical leadership and advocacy skills
• Design and lead a real-world social impact project
• Learn directly from experienced youth mentors
• Join a growing network of young leaders across the country

Financial aid is available, ensuring the program remains accessible to all, regardless of financial circumstance.

 

What is the Youth Leadership Academy?

The Youth Leadership Academy is a year-long leadership development program for young activists ready to take their impact to the next level.

The experience begins with a one-week, in-person leadership intensive in Washington, D.C., where Fellows receive hands-on training and pitch their initial Leadership Project focused on a gender equity or social justice issue.

Following the intensive, Fellows return to their communities to implement their projects throughout the school year, supported by:

• One-on-one mentorship
• Monthly project development workshops
• Micro-seed funding
• Ongoing peer and staff support

What will I learn?

Through the Youth Leadership Academy, Fellows gain practical tools that extend far beyond the program year. You will learn how to:

• Identify and analyze social justice issues
• Develop and pitch advocacy projects
• Build coalitions and engage stakeholders
• Secure funding and mobilize communities
• Communicate effectively for change

These skills support not only your Leadership Project, but also your future advocacy, academic, and professional journey.

Eligibility

• Young people who are currently in grades 8-11.
• Interested in global issues, gender equality and making an impact in your community.
• Currently based in and/or attending school in the United States.

 

After the YLA

Graduating from the Youth Leadership Academy means joining a network of over 500 alumni who continue to engage with Plan through advocacy opportunities, events, and leadership pathways.

Many alumni go on to work in policy, climate action, education, public service, and grassroots organizing—using the skills they gained through the YLA to shape their communities and the world.

“Participating in Plan’s Youth Leadership Academy was the single greatest catalyst for my political and community involvement.”
— Youth Leadership Academy Alum

What alumni are saying

• 89% feel confident motivating others
• 90% learned practical skills they still use today
• 93% strongly believe young people can change social norms

About Plan International USA

Plan International USA works alongside children, especially girls, to create a just world where everyone is equal. From birth to adulthood, we support young people to overcome inequality, respond to crises, and build a future full of opportunity—with youth leadership at the center of our work.

Youth Leadership Academy FAQs

Do I need prior activism experience?
No. Passion, collaboration, and a commitment to social justice are what matter most.

Who can apply?
Young people interested in leadership, advocacy, and community impact.

Is there a cost?
Yes, but financial aid is available to ensure accessibility.

What is the time commitment?
A one-week residential intensive in Washington, D.C., plus monthly workshops and project check-ins throughout the year.

Ready to lead change where it matters most?
APPLY NOW