The CA FWD Young Leaders Program (YLP) is a two-year program that elevates the next generation of industry, policy, and non-profit leaders. The program focuses on professional development curriculum, peer knowledge exchange, and opportunities to engage with California’s experts across a wide range of interconnected issues: economic development, land use policy, regional governance and stewardship, energy transition, and climate resilience.
CA FWD’s YLP is eligible to California residents ages 20-25 from diverse backgrounds who are committed to intergenerational collaboration and accelerating the shift toward a New California Economy based on sustained, resilient, and inclusive growth.

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YLP News

Members of CA FWD’s Leadership Development Programs Discuss AI
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CA FWD’s Leadership Development programs explore questions around AI, career pathways, and regional opportunities in California.

CA FWD Welcomes New Cohort to Young Leaders Program
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Welcoming eight emerging professionals to the CA FWD Young Leaders Program (YLP), bringing new and unique perspectives to our leadership initiative designed to shape California’s future.

Empowering The Next Generation: The Evolution of the Young Leaders Program
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The CA FWD Young Leaders Program (YLP), formerly the Young Leaders Advisory Council, is a two-year program that elevates the next generation of industry, policy, and non-profit leaders.

PolicyWise Podcast

PolicyWise S3 E17: Podcast Says Farewell to Founding Co-Host Michael Wiafe
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Departing co-host takes a look back at the podcast’s conversations aimed at getting young people involved

PolicyWise Podcast: Madera Youth Talk About Pandemic’s Impact on Community
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Six young people discuss their pandemic and quarantine experiences in the Central Valley

PolicyWise Podcast: Fresno Youth Share Their Vaccination Stories
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In this week’s episode, two Fresno youth share their experiences getting vaccinated while living in an anti-vaccination household