This program educates girls about identity, positivity, and being yourself in a world that doesn’t always want us to do that.
— YWLP Participant, 2015

About the L.E.A.D Program

We live in a world where young activists, influencers, and community organizers are leading historic change globally. We also know, however, that gender equity in the highest positions of power will not be reached for another 130 years (UN Women, 2021), and this number only includes cisgender folks. As a result, YWCA St. John’s wants to ensure that youth leadership is given attention and action in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Grounded in frameworks of intersectional gender equity, social justice, and youth inclusion, the L.E.A.D program is a comprehensive leadership training developed by YWCA for young women and gender diverse youth between ages 15 and 18. The program aims to equip young women and gender diverse youth with the knowledge, skills, and resources required to exercise their leadership abilities and lead change in their communities.

What does the training include?

Throughout this three-day training, participants have the chance to build on their leadership and advocacy skills, network with like-minded peers, and gain insight and confidence in their leadership abilities. As a group, we explore and build on self-awareness, facilitation skills, building group dynamics, conflict resolution skills, managing mental health in leadership, and how we can all contribute to creating safe spaces. The training also provides participants with an opportunity to practice the skills learned by co-facilitating one of four pre-developed modules on themes of Identity, Positivity, Communication, and Action.



Application Status: CLOSED

Upcoming Program Dates: Summer 2024


Past Events

  • 2023 - The L.E.A.D program was held on July 17, 18, and 19 at The Lantern.

  • 2022 - YWLP was held on August 16 and 17 at the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing and Homelessness Network.

  • 2019 - YWLP was held on July 16 and 17 at the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing and Homelessness Network.

  • 2018 - YWLP was held on July 17 and 18 at the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing and Homelessness Network.

  • 2017 - YWLP was held on August 14 and 15 at the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing and Homelessness Network.

  • 2016 - YWLP was held at the Newfoundland & Labrador Housing and Homelessness Network's Learning Centre in Pleasantville.

  • 2015 - YWLP was held at the Newfoundland & Labrador Housing and Homelessness Network. Visit the Photo Gallery to see pictures!

  • 2014 - The Young Women’s Leadership Program (YWLP) was held at Sobey’s Community Room

    • YWCA Moncton facilitated the training of this first YWLP session in St. John’s