SUMMER LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
Our Summer Leadership Institute (SLI) is more than just a three-day program—it’s a launchpad for bold leadership and lasting community. Designed for genderqueer and nonbinary people, cis women, and trans people of any gender—especially BIPOC folks—
SLI equips young people with the tools, connections, and confidence to level up their leadership. And when the program ends, the journey is just beginning. Alums join a powerful network of changemakers and movement builders, ready to support and uplift each other for the long haul.
Key Dates
Application Opens
March 2026
Application Deadline
April 2026
Program Dates*
July 27th to July 30th, 2026
- in person in Sonoma, CA
Who it’s for:
- Young feminine and nonbinary folks
- Who:
- Live in California
- Are between 14 and 18 years of age
- Engage in social justice work in their communities
- Are ready to attend all training sessions
Who should apply:
- Young leaders who want to:
- Develop their unique leadership style
- Strengthen their voice with authentic storytelling
- Deepen their commitment to social justice
- Participate with a collaborative spirit
- Do all of the above and have the time availability
Applications are CLOSED
FAQ
No, you do not have to have any prior experience in those fields. Our Summer Leadership Institute is an entry level and beginner friendly program designed to meet you where you are and support your growth, helping you strengthen the leadership skills you already possess.
This year, SLI 2025 will be in-person in Sonoma, exact location to be shared with fellows.
Monday, July 27th to Thursday, July 30th, 2026
On Monday, July 27th sessions will start and end by Thursday, July 30th. Fellows will be expected to participate in all scheduled sessions except for those listed as optional.
Eligibility is open to young genderqueer and nonbinary people, cis women, and trans people of any gender who live in California, are between 14 and 18 years old, and are engaged in social justice work in their community.
Yes, you will need to attend the entire program. We will be prioritizing youth who will be able to commit to being there for its entirety. You and your parent/guardian will also need to attend a mandatory one-hour virtual orientation meeting in advance.
Travel to the retreat location will be arranged for you. Fellows will travel together in small groups accompanied by a chaperone.
Yes, the cost of transportation, lodging, and meals for fellows will be covered.
Yes, fellows will receive a $500 stipend after they have completed the program.
- Fellows will engage in storytelling practices to heal, to build individual and collective power, and to impact social change through advocacy.
- Fellows will collaborate with one another and community leaders in a way that informs their own leadership journey and practice
- Fellows will practice how to provide public comment in order to support rules and regulations that empower their communities
Fellows will be notified via email by May 2026.
Please email miyanae(at)womensfoundca.org if you have any questions.
As someone who has done community organizing for about four years within her community, this program has definitely made me think what I do. I…(organize) for the women in my community and the women around me. Coming to this realization really makes me want to help more women in Orange County.”
-Emily Fuentes, 18, Santa Ana
Storytelling
We believe in the power of stories. Whether it’s through art or poetry, SLI cultivates a better understanding of narrative building, advocacy, and leadership.
Skills
✨ Authentic leadership
Healing practices ✨
✨ Relationship building
Community
Graduating fellows join a statewide network of collaborators and supporters deepening their leadership journeys.
MEET OUR ALUM
Meet our Summer Leadership Institute Alum!
This formidable group of over 80 young feminists between the ages of 14 and 18 are dreaming, reimagining, and co-creating California’s intersectional feminist future.