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We Need More Women in Power: JSA's Young Women's Leadership Institute

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Felicity is a soft-spoken high school student from South Florida who has future aspirations of having a career in politics and law.

She knew that she needed to have leadership skills to pursue her chosen professions but wasn’t quite sure how to develop them.

Last year, while scrolling through her social media account, Felicity came across a promotional ad about a national leadership program for young women sponsored by the Junior State of America (JSA).

That program was the Young Women’s Leadership Institute.

“I was looking for a summer program that would develop my skills as a leader,” said Felicity, who wasted no time submitting her application to JSA.

She was a high school junior at the time she enrolled and by the time she completed the 8-week online program, she had become CEO of “Youth Upholding Democracy,” a nonprofit that she had founded with the support and guidance from JSA.

“I’d never heard of JSA before joining as there are no chapters in my area. After {attending} the institute, I made so many friends that I talk to almost every day.”

Felicity is just one of the 140 young women who have completed the Young Women’s Leadership Institute since JSA established it in 2018.

Our organization recognizes the importance of supporting young women who share a passion for politics and civic engagement and is determined to help them become future leaders.

The Young Women’s Leadership Institute focuses on the opportunities and challenges facing young women today and recognizes the value of building a supportive network of peers and mentors.

“Having Q&As and one-on-ones with actual politicians was one of the most beneficial things about the institute.”

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, our summer institutes pivoted to a virtual experience. However, this allowed participants like Felicity to meet people from all parts of the country.

“I met people from private schools, big cities, and rural areas. They all have had different struggles and obstacles to overcome that I haven’t had. Having all of those different experiences...helped us grow and be future leaders.”

Our institutes introduce students to essential topics of civic action through dialogue, engagement, and experience.

With the support of people like you, we can continue to support Felicity and other young women to be the future women leaders this country needs.

Can we count on you to join the cause for women in leadership?

Support us today!

Date

July 15, 2021