2018 Young Leaders
Access Program USA
2018 Young Leaders Access Program USA
The Young Leaders Access Program (YLA) unites youth from around the world, driven by the shared goal of creating positive change in their communities. This one-year program comprises three integral components:
- YLA Retreat
- Project Implementation
- Alumni Mentorship and Support
The YLA begins with a Retreat in late July, hosted in New York, NY, and Burlington, Vermont. This immersive experience covers three modules: Modern Leadership, Global Citizenship, and Local Change. During the final phase, Young Leaders develop a unique action plan to address a community issue. Over the subsequent year, participants implement their plans with guidance from remote online workshops and a Mentor from the Young Leaders alumni community. Upon completing the YLA, participants are eligible to apply for the Alumni Ventures Fund, offering grants up to $5,000 USD with a year of professional mentorship.
Application Process: The application process comprises three rounds - general application, a brief needs assessment, and an alumni interview. The general application opens on October 31, 2017, and shortlisted candidates progress to submit a needs assessment, detailing their community issue and proposed solutions. Finalists then undergo an interview with program alumni. Acceptance notifications will be sent out on April 2, 2018.
Eligibility Requirements: Young Leaders must:
- Be aged between 18-26 years old
- Be fluent in written and spoken English
- Have consistent internet access for communication throughout the program
- Demonstrate commitment to their community
- Identify a community issue they aim to address
- Attend the weeklong retreat and commit to implementing change in their community
- Be eligible for the required visa and travel documentation
- Submit the completed application by January 2, 2018
2018-2019 Timeline:
- October 31, 2017: Application I Opens
- January 2, 2018, at 11:59 New York Time (NYT): Application I Closes
- February 2, 2018: Decisions Sent out, Short List Candidates Notified, and Application Part II Begins
- February 25, 2018, at 11:59 New York Time (NYT): Application II Closes
- March 2-30, 2018: Interviews with Alumni
- April 2, 2018: Acceptances Sent Out
- May 4, 2018: Confirm Acceptance with Visa Interview Date and Deposit
- July 24, 2018- August 2, 2018: YLA Retreat
- August 2, 2018- July 24, 2019: YLA Implementation
Apply Now! The YLA Application is hosted on Google Forms. Ensure you have a Gmail account to fill out the application. The application includes general information, essay questions, resume/CV upload (PDF format), two letters of recommendation (PDF format), and a liability waiver.
Program Cost: MCW Global covers all program costs, including flights, for every accepted participant. Participants must cover on-the-ground costs, such as passport, visa, and in-country fees (not applicable for U.S. based participants).
Online Application Link: YLA Application
Join the Young Leaders Access Program and be part of a global community striving for positive change
