Emerging Leaders Program

The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is a free online leadership training program for people with disabilities and family members of people with disabilities living in California.

The program helps participants build confidence, develop leadership and advocacy skills, and learn how to make a difference in their communities.

Whether you are new to leadership and advocacy or want to strengthen your skills, this program is for you!

Training Dates

New Cohort Begins February 4, 2027

All four training sessions will take place on Thursdays from 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm via Zoom.

• Thursday, February 4, 2027
• Thursday, February 11, 2027
• Thursday, February 18, 2027
• Thursday, February 25, 2027

Application Deadline: Friday, January 4, 2027

What You'll Learn

Through four interactive training sessions, you will:

• Build confidence in leadership and advocacy. Learn skills to become a stronger leader and advocate.
• Share your story and speak up about disability issues. Learn how to communicate your experiences and advocate for issues that matter to you.
• Turn your ideas into action in your community. Explore ways to get involved and make a positive difference.

You will also have opportunities to connect with other participants, learn from experienced disability leaders, and practice your leadership and advocacy skills.

Emerging Leaders Program Training Sessions

There are four training sessions. Each training session is conducted on Zoom and includes:

• Leadership Story from a Guest Speaker: Gain insights from experienced leaders in the disabilities community who share their personal leadership journeys and advocacy experiences.
• Agenda Overview: Participants will receive a structured outline of each session's key topics and breakout room activities.
• Breakout Sessions: Participants will engage in small group discussions and interactive exercises to apply their learning.
• Practice What You Learn: Between sessions, participants will have opportunities to practice your new leadership and advocacy skills.
  • Practice telling your one-minute leadership story
  • Find out who your state legislators are
  • Explore community advisory boards, committees, or leadership opportunities

Application Process

Interested in joining the Emerging Leaders Program?

We encourage self-advocates and family members living in California to apply.

How to Apply

1. Complete the Online Application: Tell us about yourself, your interests, and why you want to participate.
2. Share Your Goals: Tell us what you hope to learn and how you would like to use your leadership and advocacy skills.
3. Application Review: Our team will review applications and notify selected participants by email.

Application Deadline: Monday, January 4, 2027

Application Link

Participant Expectations

Participants are encouraged to attend all four online training sessions.

Each session builds on what participants learned in previous sessions.

Participants are expected to:

• Attend and actively participate in the training sessions.
• Take part in small group discussions and activities.
• Complete activities before or after training sessions, when assigned.
• Respect the experiences and opinions of other participants.

We encourage everyone to participate, share their experiences, and learn from one another.

Mentorship

The mentorship component of the Emerging Leaders Program connects participants with experienced mentors who provide guidance, support, and real-world insights into leadership and advocacy. Mentors are individuals with disabilities or professionals in the disabilities community who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to advancing disability rights.

How It Works:

1. Matching Process: Participants will complete a mentorship interest form, outlining their goals and preferences. Based on this information, they will be paired with a mentor whose experience aligns with their aspirations.
2. Regular Meetings: Mentors and participants will meet virtually at mutually agreed-upon times to discuss progress, challenges, and strategies for success.
3. Ongoing Support: Mentors will offer practical advice, encouragement, and resources to help participants achieve their leadership goals.