Maryland Youth Leadership Forum

June 25 - 27, 2026

Deadline to Apply: February 28, 2026

Maryland Youth Leadership Forum Delegates build leadership skills and prepare for
future employment, higher education, and independent living.

Click here to view photos from the 2025 Forum on Facebook!

Large group of Youth Leadership Forum delegates and staff in teal and red YLF Maryland shirts gathered in front of a marble staircase.

Seven MDYLF delegates stand proudly in a row, smiling and holding their graduation certificates in front of a “Maryland Youth Leadership Forum” banner.

Two delegates talking and reviewing a worksheet together during the forum.

Maryland Youth Leadership Forum delegates boarding a yellow school bus outside a brick building.

Close-up of handwritten words “I’m proud of myself” written by a Maryland Youth Leadership Forum delegate.

A smiling delegate flexes his arm toward the camera while other delegates draw on the large white paper at the Maryland Youth Leadership Forum.

Two people working together at a table, writing and discussing notes.

Independence Now staff smile in front of the large mural full of colorful drawings.

History of the Maryland Youth Leadership Forum

The Youth Leadership Forum was initiated in 1992 by the California Governor's Committee on the Employment of Disabled Persons. This popular program spread across the country and is now conducted annually in more than 33 states. Maryland held its first Youth Leadership Forum (MD-YLF) in August 2000.

MD-YLF Curriculum

Find your unique strengths and develop skills to be a leader in your community

Encourage civic engagement through learning about the legislative process and how to change problems in your community.

Develop communication skills through social activities, role play and discussion.

Learn about Disability Culture and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Play games around the history of disability and explore technology and adaptations for people with disabilities.

Play games around the history of disability and explore technology and adaptations for people with disabilities

Experience "college life" through a stay at one of Maryland's universities.

Meet professionals with a wide range of careers in Maryland who have disabilities.

Discuss independent living and future plans with peers and facilitators to develop goals and paths to success.

Selection Criteria

Must be in their final two years of high school.
Applicant accomplishments and leadership potential
Academic achievement
Community service
Participation in school and community activities
Disability diversity
Ethnic and racial diversity
Geographic representation

Applicants will be called to participate in a regional interview after submitting their application form.

Application

Complete application and mail to:

MDYLF, c/o Independence Now, Inc.
12301 Old Columbia Pike, Suite 101
Silver Spring, MD 20904

If you would like to receive email updates about MDYLF, contact Danielle Bustos at dbustos@innow.org or 240-898-2189.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the 2025 Maryland Youth Leadership Forum (MDYLF) such a powerful experience! And special thanks to our partners:

Our Delegates

"At the Maryland Youth Leadership Forum, I learned about the Maryland government and how it operates which is useful information when discussing policies regarding people with disabilities."

JordanMaryland Youth Leadership Forum Delegate, Class of 2020

"Maryland Youth Leadership Forum impacted me by showing me how to live independently and showing that I am a leader for my rights."

NoahMaryland Youth Leadership Forum Delegate, Class of 2020

“Independence Now motivated me to do well in college, work, and social life.”

John DoeCEO

The Latest from MDYLF

Read the latest news and stories from past YLF Delegates

Danielle Bustos smiling in a sleeveless light teal blouse against a white background.

Danielle Bustos is a DMV Doer!

August 28, 2025 No Comments

Shout out to our very own Danielle Bustos, who was recently featured as a DMV Doer by DC News Now!

Highlights from the 2025 Maryland Youth Leadership Forum

July 25, 2025 No Comments

The 2025 Maryland Youth Leadership Forum (MDYLF), held June 26–28, was a memorable and meaningful experience for young leaders with disabilities from across the state. Through interactive sessions, peer connections, and hands-on learning, participants explored leadership, advocacy, and independent living. The event wrapped up with a graduation ceremony recognizing each participant’s growth and engagement. See

A group of high school students and adults form a circle under a large green canopy during an outdoor kickoff event for the 2025 Maryland Youth Leadership Forum. The setting is casual and interactive, with participants engaged in group activities.

A Strong Start for the 2025 Maryland Youth Leadership Forum

June 6, 2025 No Comments

If last Saturday was any indication, Independence Now’s 2025 Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is on track to be one of our best yet! Under a bright, sunny sky at the University of Maryland, high school students from across the state—along with their families—gathered for an exciting kickoff event. The day was filled with energy, connection,

This Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council project is supported by the Administration for Community Living as part of a total award of $1,265,982 dollars.