The K/VAL Young Women’s Leadership & Service Academy was created from a deep belief: that leadership in young women is not something to be assigned, but something to be discovered, nurtured, and lived.

​

For too long, leadership has been defined by confidence on the surface—who speaks the most, who takes charge, who stands out. But in our work—with women, with organizations, and in our own lives—we have seen a different truth.

Leadership begins much earlier.

• It begins quietly in how we see ourselves, others, and the world around us.

• It begins with a young woman asking:

Who am I? What matters to me? Where do I belong? What do I want? Why not me? How do I lead from being myself?

​

Why This Academy Exists

YoWLA exists to help young women develop the confidence to know themselves, the courage to use their voice, and the skills to lead with purpose. Through meaningful relationships, leadership development, and service to others, scholars learn that they are not simply preparing for their future—they are capable of shaping it.

​

During the middle and high school years, girls are not just learning skills—they are forming identity. They are navigating relationships, questioning their voice, and beginning to imagine who they might become.
 

And yet, so few spaces exist that truly honor girls at this stage of life. 

Spaces that:

• slow down enough for reflection, fun, and designing who they want to be.

• create a space where real belonging and connection can take shape.

• treat girls as thinkers, researchers, and contributors to society.

• invite girls into being meaningful leaders, innovators, and problem solvers of real world problems.

​

YoWLA was designed to be that space!