Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.
AYLF is a place-based, multi-site program that nurtures a cadre of diverse youth committed to addressing the most compelling social, political, and scientific issues facing their communities.
Rooted in Community
The Aspen Young Leaders Fellowship (AYLF) catalyzes the power of young people as changemakers by partnering with them, their families, and their communities to take action on their ideas for social solutions.
The Aspen Young Leaders Fellowship is deeply rooted in Fellows’ communities. AYLF develops young emerging leaders in cities and regions across the United States, working in locations where young people are primed with talent and benefits from a whole-systems approach to develop their leadership skills. AYLF is currently active in Mississippi/Arkansas Delta; Chicago, Illinois; and Miami, Florida and has existing networks of Fellows in St. Louis, Missouri and Newark, New Jersey.
Job placement rate among Fellows who completed year one
100%
Learning gains from 50th to 85th – 90th percentile
95%
Increased civic engagement behaviors to the 95th percentile of youth nationally
The Program Elements
The AYLF experience reflects best practices used at the Aspen Institute while weaving local perspectives and content into its design from the communities in which Fellows live.
Leadership Seminars
Fellows engage in 10 seminars focused on leadership including intergenerational conversations and peer dialogue about stories and poems and films that offer fresh perspectives on society.
Individual Coaching
Fellows connect with a local coordinator who helps them navigate the experience and steward opportunities.
Community Impact Project
Fellows rediscover what’s possible in their community and gain the skills to design a community impact project that addresses a community need, together with their cohort.
Wrap-Around Support
Fellows receive guidance and access to safety net and catalyst resources that ensure support throughout the program.
Financial Stipend
Fellows receive a stipend for their efforts and engagement in the program.
Changemaker Network
Fellows establish lasting relationships with their cohort and join a global network of Aspen Institute Fellows, enabling opportunities for a lifetime.
