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.
Young Women Leaders
The Young Women Leaders educational scholarship program offers monthly workshops designed to help future female leaders develop networking, leadership, and public speaking skills.
In addition to mentor connections, students receive guidance on creating budgets, time management, networking, etiquette, interview preparation, and so much more.
Empower
Cultivate leadership, expand your network, and craft a distinctive personal brand.
Explore
Discover diverse career paths through mentorship and dedicated career exploration sessions.
Achieve
Earn scholarships by attending sessions, crafting thoughtful applications, and delivering engaging summary presentations.
Sign Up
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.
YWL Monthly Workshop Overview
These engaging, informative, and interactive workshops take place from October 2025 - April 2026.
October 12, November 8, December 7, January 11, February 8, March 15, April 26
Mentorship & Networking
- Kickoff Introduction Meeting (October 2025): Participants are welcomed and matched with mentors at a networking session hosted at the Classic Club.
- Mentor Matching & Ongoing Guidance: Mentors provide continuous support, advice, and accountability throughout the year.
Skill-Building Workshops
- Financial Aid & FAFSA Support: Workshops to guide students through college financial aid processes.
- Etiquette Lunch (January 2026): Practical training on professional and social etiquette in a formal dining setting.
- Time & Money Management (February 2026): Focus on budgeting, prioritization, and presentation skills.
- Self-Defense & Safety Training (April 2026): Rehearsal meeting combined with hands-on safety education.
Presentation & Communication Development
- December 2025 – March 2026: Students develop and deliver presentations, strengthening public speaking, marketing, and persuasive communication skills.
Philanthropy & Community Service
- Participants commit to at least one community service project, including partnerships with The Field of Valor, FIND Food Bank, and other Philanthropy events.
- Philanthropy projects foster civic responsibility and connect students to nonprofit organizations.
Networking Mixers with Community Leaders
- Regular Women Leaders Forum (WLF) mixers (December 2025 – April 2026) 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.
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.
Get Involved with Young Women Leaders
If you’re a WLF member interested in supporting the Young Women Leaders program and spending time with our participants during the 2025–26 season, please email us!
Featured Video:
Meet Our Inspiring DOHC Scholarship Winners
2026 NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS
PRESENTING SPONSOR SBEMP $5,000
SBEMP is a prominent full-service law firm based in Palm Springs, extending its legal expertise through offices in Indian Wells, Orange, and San Diego Counties. Esteemed for its community roots and a team comprising notably of female lawyers, the firm excels in various legal sectors and proudly supports initiatives like the Women Who Rule Awards, underscoring its commitment to the professional development of women in the Coachella Valley.
DESERT OASIS HEALTHCARE SCHOLARSHIP $5,000
Whether as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, or in any variety of other clinical or administrative positions, women have been leaders at Desert Oasis Healthcare since it was formed in 1981, as one of the first medical groups in the desert communities of Southern California. The hope is that this scholarship will inspire young women to consider careers in healthcare and, perhaps, return to the Coachella Valley and surrounding communities to practice their chosen profession.
testimonials
What they say
Danielle Agras
YWL Participant
"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
YWL Participant
"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."