The ILF Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) program is designed to empower high school students by deepening their understanding of American democracy and their unique role within it, while also emphasizing the importance of cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset. YLA is intended for aspiring young leaders who are interested in a variety of fields, including public service, entrepreneurship, and business. 

Throughout the week-long intensive seminar in the summer, students will:

• Engage with a diverse network of leaders in government and business/entrepreneurship
• Hone their skills in public speaking, networking, and policy analysis
• Present a Ted Talk on a policy issue of their choice during Capstone Demonstration Day
• Learn about college and the college application process
• Gain 1:1 mentorship from the Civic Fellows and ILF alumni relationships 
• Explore future opportunities for internships and involvement

By bridging civic engagement and entrepreneurial learning, YLA will provide students with the skills, knowledge, inspiration, and confidence they need to become civically engaged citizens, entrepreneurial thinkers, and future leaders who want to make a difference in their communities.

*The 2026 YLA application is open now and will close on March 15 at 11:59pm ET.

• Demonstrated community service involvement and leadership
• Current high school student (Rising High School Sophomores, Juniors & Seniors)
• 3.0 GPA and higher

*The 2026 YLA application is open now and will close on March 15 at 11:59pm ET.

Cost: $500 to participate. This cost includes any entrance fees and other programming fees for the summer. Scholarships are available based on financial need. Please review the scholarship section of the application.  

Allen Liu
My experience with the Youth Leadership Academy 2025 strengthened my commitment to civic engagement and broadened my understanding of how public policy and medicine intersect. I have learned that creating meaningful change in healthcare requires service, knowledge, teamwork, and a shared vision for stronger communities. The leadership skills I gained have guided my involvement in public service and community initiatives, where I strive to address challenges through both policy and compassion. Beyond these experiences, YLA has given me the privilege of learning from individuals who shape our nation’s future. YLA has cultivated my dedication to serving others and will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders as it has inspired me.

Meagan Lee
My experience in the 2021 Youth Leadership Academy fostered my professional interests and encouraged me to pursue civic engagement. It allowed me to learn that civic engagement takes service, knowledge, teamwork, and a desire to make a change in our respective communities. As a result of acquiring valuable leadership skills, I have applied them to my internship under the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, working in the Tours and Government Education Division and as a Policy Intern under Massachusetts State Representative Adam Scanlon. Aside from these experiences, ILF has allowed me to meet the pioneers of our nation and economy. ILF cultivated my love of public service and will continue to change the lives of aspiring world leaders as it changed mine.