Event Review-A new era of young leaders

"It's not possible for people with disabilities to truly integrate until we are recognized as having pride in who we are as disabled people." - Steve Brown, Founder of Institute on Disability Culture.

The Maryland Youth Leadership Forum is perhaps the one of the most exciting programs in place in Maryland that exemplifies pride and knowledge in the disabilities culture. For many youth, and particularly those discovering who they are while living with a disability, the doubts of self worth, value, and roles in society often come into play. But these doubts do not have to determine the pursuits of youth with disabilities. And to ensure this, programs such as the Maryland Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) have been created.

The YLF, in its mission, states its purpose as "To identify students with disabilities who have exhibited leadership skills and equip them with additional training so that they may become leaders by example." And this it does.

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Paul Rasinski, Executive Director of MD TAP, prepares a speech at the technology expo for the students participating in the YLF. He is introduced by Ruth Shipps, one of the participating students.

The YLF is a one-week program for students who are heading into their final two years of high school. They are nominated by school counselors and are chosen through a competitive application process that looks for students who have demonstrated their leadership potential in their communities and schools. Approximately 25 students with disabilities from across the state of Maryland are selected. They then stay for a week at the Bowie State University Campus. Throughout the week, a number of events occur, including a technology expo, trips around the state (i.e. to Annapolis), and various breakfasts, meetings, and more. With an emphasis on leadership and self-development, the YLF offers opportunities for students to learn more about themselves through understanding culture, history, and more. But it is perhaps the experience of being with encouraging mentors, and finding peer support that is the most rewarding experience for those involved.

As one story was recounted to me, three years ago (the first year for the Maryland YLF), on the first day of the forum, a young man was asked to introduce his self and state why he was there. He gave his name and then told the group that his mother had forced him to attend. On the final \ day of the program, the students were sharing their experiences and feelings about the event. When it was finally his to turn to comment, he declared that he had a great time and was really happy that he had come (but he didn't want his mother to know!). This year, the 3rd year, he returned as a staff member. This young man's story is testament to the experiences of the students and the dedication of the staff members and mentors!

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Students at the technology expo had a chance to learn and demonstrate various forms of technology, including various forms of mobility vehicles and tech gadgets.

If you are interested in more information on the Youth Leadership Forum, or would like to apply for next year's forum, please visit www.md-ylf.org
Or contact kavita@md-ylf.org.