Empowering the Next
Generation of Female Leaders
Young Women Leaders is an engaging educational outreach program that has given more than $800,000 in scholarships to high school seniors throughout the Coachella Valley since 2001.
Our next program sign up deadline is September 20th.
Young Women Leaders
The Young Women Leaders (YWL) program is a structured, year-long mentorship and leadership development initiative designed to prepare high school young women for academic, professional, and personal success.
Through a series of monthly workshops, mentorship, networking opportunities, and community engagement activities, participants gain practical life skills, expand their professional networks, and strengthen their confidence as emerging leaders.
The signup date for our next program is September 20th. 2026.
Empower
Cultivate leadership, expand your network, and craft a distinctive personal brand.
Explore
Discover diverse career paths through mentorship and dedicated career exploration sessions.
Excel
Earn scholarships by attending sessions, crafting thoughtful applications, and delivering engaging summary presentations.
YWL PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Program Components
Mentorship & Networking
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Kickoff Introduction Meeting (October): Participants are welcomed and meet mentors and members at a networking session hosted at the Classic Club.
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Mentor Ongoing Guidance: Mentors provide continuous support, advice, and accountability throughout the year.
Skill-Building Workshops
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Financial Aid & FAFSA Support (January): Workshops to guide students through college financial aid processes.
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Etiquette Lunch (February): Practical training on professional and social etiquette in a formal dining setting.
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Time & Money Management (December): Focus on budgeting, prioritization, and presentation skills.
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Self-Defense & Safety Training (April): Rehearsal meeting combined with hands-on safety education.
Presentation & Communication Development
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December 2026 – March 2027: Students develop and deliver presentations, strengthening public speaking, marketing, and persuasive communication skills.
Philanthropy & Community Service
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Participants commit to at least one community service project, including partnerships with The Field of Valor, FIND Food Bank, and other Philanthropy events.
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Philanthropy projects foster civic responsibility and connect students to nonprofit organizations.
Networking Mixers with Community Leaders
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Regular Women Leaders Forum (WLF) mixers (December – April) allow participants to expand their professional networks, practice relationship-building skills, and learn directly from women leaders in the Coachella Valley. Lead by Konnections Certification.
Young Women Leaders is an engaging educational outreach program that has served high school seniors throughout the Coachella Valley since 2001.
Students who participate in the program receive training, informational resources, and access to women leaders in the community, who serve as mentors. The program’s goal is to guide young women into roles of leadership and success, as they prepare for college, business, and life.
Seniors who successfully complete the educational programming and project requirements are eligible to apply for either a need-based or merit scholarship.
Deadline is Sept 20th
YWL Program Calendar
for the 2026-2027 Season
Course | Date |
|---|---|
Orientation and Kickoff | October 4, 2026 |
Philanthropy activity for Veteran’s Day | November 7 2026 |
Financial Literacy | December 13, 2026 |
Money for College: Scholarships and More | January 10, 2027 |
Etiquette Luncheon | February 21, 2027 |
Marketing and Student Presentations | March 14, 2027 |
Self-Defense and Celebration | April 18, 2027 |
In Partnership with One Future Coachella Valley
Scholarships are offered in partnership with OneFuture Coachella Valley as part of a coordinated college success program. Women Leaders Forum is a partner on the Regional Plan for College and Career Success and is committed to improving educational attainment and economic mobility for local students.
Meet Our Inspiring DOHC Scholarship Winners
We're grateful to Desert Oasis Health Care for generously providing scholarships through the Women Leaders Forum of the Coachella Valley.
Success Stories
Danielle Agras
The most impactful thing about participating in YWL was having one on one experience from a variety of mentors. Hearing their stories, dreams, and passions to impact the Coachella Valley and beyond has inspired me even more to do the same.
Anisa Rodriguez
The most impactful thing about participating in YWL was realizing the importance of networking and mentorship in achieving my professional goals along with to meet and connect with powerful women from a variety of different backgrounds in my community, which was an incredibly valuable and inspiring experience.