This signature program guides the emerging leader through personal reflection and mindfulness of the self and of others; an 12-hour intensive all-day workshop which guides students through the basic fundamentals of being an effective leader. Through interactive exercises and activities students explore the art of communication, the power of collaboration, active listening skills, exploring identity, and so much more.

Communication is not only an art but there is a science to it as well. Communication is the process by which people connect and exchange information or news. Effective communication is an integral part of leadership. Each individual’s own personal experiences create a filter for how words and language are interpreted and so those filters will serve as a decoding mechanism for informing the messages that one receives. When one engages in a conversation with someone else, one may give meaning to words and phrases based on that person’s own understanding from past experiences. The same is true with the person on the other side of the conversation. That person will, too, give meaning to words and phrases based on their unique experiences. Our goal at YLI is to help young people break down the barriers to good communication and to teach the students the different components that are needed to become an effective communicator. This module will explore active listening, seeking to understand vs seeking to be heard, tools for effective communication, shared values, and how to achieve common goals with peers.

YLI incorporates the Learn and Serve America National Service Learning Clearinghouse concept of service learning.  YLI encourages its young leaders to stay engaged in meaningful community and humanitarian service.  Our method of teaching through reflection on humanity and instruction for service is meant to awaken the young minds of the participants and elevate the consciousness about the importance of service to humanity.  The program has a two pronged approach, to first provide learning through action and second, to allow opportunities to serve our communities and give back to our fellow citizens of the world. Students walk away with a renewed spirit toward and desire to serve others.

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All great leaders throughout history had one thing in common; they all were great leaders of themselves, first, before they were the great leaders of the world. This module aims to cultivate greater leadership of the self through self-regulation, discipline, and elevated consciousness. “Leadership of the self” is designed to give students an open, free space and judgement free zone so that students can go through an extensive process of self-discovery, which will spark their creativity for new ideas. This relational process is enhanced as the students develop a foundation of trust between themselves and their cohorts in a safe collaborative environment. Through interactive exercises, students will have the opportunity to explore their persona and perhaps their multiple identities, gaining them a better understanding of the self and of others. The participants will walk away with an elevated level of self-consciousness, understanding the ecosystem in which we live and how their thoughts, actions, and decisions can have a lasting impact on people everywhere, be it local or global.

YLI incorporates the Learn and Serve America National Service Learning Clearinghouse concept of service learning.  YLI encourages its young leaders to stay engaged in meaningful community and humanitarian service.  Our method of teaching through reflection on humanity and instruction for service is meant to awaken the young minds of the participants and elevate the consciousness about the importance of service to humanity.  The program has a two pronged approach, to first provide learning through action and second, to allow opportunities to serve our communities and give back to our fellow citizens of the world. Students walk away with a renewed spirit toward and desire to serve others.