Leadership skills are essential for high school students aspiring to make a difference in their communities and future careers. Attending leadership conferences can provide valuable experiences, networking opportunities, and skill-building workshops. We organized the Top 8 Leadership Conferences for high schoolers in this article, with events to help students develop confidence, improve public speaking, and learn to work effectively in teams.

Published by: Shunyu Yu

#8: Global Youth Leadership Summit (GYLS)

The Global Youth Leadership Summit (GYLS), hosted by the Tony Robbins Foundation, is designed to boost leadership skills for youth aged 14-16. Held in San Diego, CA, this five-day program offers participants the chance to engage in leadership workshops, team-building exercises, and community service activities. The summit is highly interactive, focusing on personal growth, leadership, and making a positive impact on communities.

Students are selected based on their community involvement and leadership potential. The program includes sessions on goal setting, effective communication, and strategies for overcoming challenges. Additionally, participants work on projects that encourage them to apply their newly acquired skills to real-world situations. GYLS emphasizes the importance of creating a global network of young leaders who are equipped to tackle various societal issues.
Learn more about GYLS.

#7: National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC)

The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) offers high school students an opportunity to explore a future career path through exciting simulations, exclusive site visits, and interactive meetings with renowned leaders. Programs are hosted at various prestigious universities, including Yale and Columbia. Students develop essential leadership skills and experience life on a college campus.NSLC provides a range of programs focusing on different fields such as medicine, engineering, law, and business. Participants engage in hands-on activities, leadership training workshops, and college preparation sessions. The program aims to enhance students’ leadership abilities by immersing them in real-world scenarios that require critical thinking and problem-solving. By the end of the conference, students are better prepared to take on leadership roles in their schools and communities.
Learn more about NSLC.

#6: American Youth Foundation’s National Leadership Conference (NLC)

The National Leadership Conference (NLC) by the American Youth Foundation provides an eight-day immersive experience that brings together high school and college students from diverse backgrounds. Held at Camp Miniwanca in Michigan, participants engage in activities that develop leadership skills, personal growth, and community building. The program emphasizes the values of responsibility, integrity, and inclusivity.

During the conference, students participate in workshops, discussions, and outdoor activities that challenge them to step out of their comfort zones and develop their leadership potential. The NLC also focuses on community service, encouraging students to apply their skills in ways that benefit their communities. The experience fosters a sense of empowerment and motivates students to continue their leadership journey long after the conference ends.
Learn more about NLC.

#5: Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS)

The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) program is an intensive academic and leadership development program held at Yale University. It offers a variety of academic seminars and leadership development activities, with options such as Innovations in Science & Technology and Politics, Law & Economics. The program is designed to challenge students academically and help them develop their leadership skills in a global context.

Participants are selected from over 150 countries, creating a diverse and enriching environment. The program includes lectures by Yale faculty, discussions with global leaders, and collaborative projects. YYGS encourages students to think critically about global issues and develop solutions that can be implemented in their own communities. The program’s rigorous academic environment and focus on leadership make it an invaluable experience for aspiring leaders.
Learn more about YYGS.

#4: Brown University Pre-College Leadership Institute

The Brown University Pre-College Leadership Institute is a two-week on-campus or four-week online program for high school students. Participants engage in coursework that covers social movements, educational equality, restorative justice, and activism. The program focuses on empowering students to become leaders in their communities through problem-solving and collaborative leadership skills.

Students in the program take courses led by Brown faculty and engage in experiential learning opportunities that allow them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The institute emphasizes the development of critical thinking, public speaking, and teamwork skills. Additionally, participants have the opportunity to experience college life and explore their academic interests in a supportive environment.
Learn more about Brown Pre-College Leadership Institute.

#3: Tufts Leadership for Social Change (LSC)

Tufts University’s Leadership for Social Change (LSC) program equips high school students with the skills and knowledge to lead and emerge as change agents. The program, which offers both on-campus and virtual options, focuses on addressing societal challenges such as education inequities and community health disparities. Students participate in workshops and projects that foster civic engagement and leadership.

The LSC program includes interactive sessions on topics such as public policy, social entrepreneurship, and community organizing. Participants work on group projects that address real-world issues and present their solutions to a panel of experts. The program also offers opportunities for students to network with professionals and alumni who are making significant contributions to social change.
Learn more about Tufts LSC.

#2: Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders

Hosted by the University of Texas at Austin, Subiendo: The Academy for Rising Leaders is a free, week-long program for rising juniors and seniors. The program includes leadership seminars, case studies, and campus visits, all designed to develop leadership skills and introduce students to the McCombs School of Business. The program is particularly focused on students from underrepresented groups.

Subiendo participants engage in discussions on topics such as ethics, public policy, and business leadership. The program also includes team-building activities and networking opportunities with business leaders and UT Austin alumni. By the end of the week, students have developed a deeper understanding of leadership and are inspired to take on leadership roles in their schools and communities.
Learn more about Subiendo.

#1: Global Leadership Adventures (GLA)

Global Leadership Adventures (GLA) offers high school students the opportunity to become global leaders through international cultural travel and immersion. Programs are held in various countries, where students engage in service learning, language learning, and leadership development activities. GLA emphasizes hands-on experience and cultural exchange to develop leadership skills in a global context.

Participants in GLA programs work on community service projects that address local needs, such as building schools, promoting environmental sustainability, and improving public health. The program also includes cultural activities that help students develop a deeper understanding of the host country. GLA’s focus on service learning and global citizenship prepares students to become leaders who can make a positive impact on the world.
Learn more about GLA.