About YLDP
Where Youth Lead Through Communication, Community, and Purpose
Since 2013, Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) has helped students in grades 4–12 discover their voice and lead with purpose. Through public speaking, community service, and real-world projects, students uncover their unique leadership style and learn how to make a meaningful impact.
We believe every young person already has the confidence to lead — our programs simply create the space for that leadership to emerge. YLDP is designed to inspire self-awareness, responsibility, and action beyond the classroom.
Vision
To create a world where every child feels free to speak, confident to lead, and inspired to make their community better — by discovering the leader that’s already within them.
Mission
YLDP helps students in grades 4–12 discover their voice and leadership style through public speaking, real-world projects, and community service.
Our mission is to create spaces where youth can express themselves freely, take initiative, and develop the skills to lead with clarity, creativity, and compassion — in their schools, communities, and beyond.
History & Structure
In 2013, a small group of 20 students came together for a public speaking program launched as a community service initiative under the Toastmasters International Youth Program. What began as a structured curriculum soon sparked something more — a desire among students for deeper connection, real-world relevance, and space to grow as leaders.
In response, Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) was officially founded in August 2017 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, expanding beyond public speaking to include business process management, social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and youth leadership.
Today, our most popular program remains public speaking — now led in part by high school students who shape and carry forward the organization’s vision and mission. At YLDP, students aren’t just learning skills — they’re defining the future of the program and discovering the leader within themselves.
Our Impact
Over the past 10 years, YLDP has impacted the lives of more than 2,000 students, providing them with essential leadership and communication skills.
We have expanded beyond the U.S., launching fully funded international initiatives in Uganda and Jamaica, made possible through U.S. program fees and strong community partnerships.
YLDP continues to prepare young leaders for success, not only in corporate environments, but also in community-driven roles that require empathy, initiative, and collaboration.
