The Florida Youth Leadership Forum (YLF)
The Florida Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is an annual career and leadership training program that is both educational and motivational. Sponsored annually by The Able Trust, the YLF brings together rising high school juniors and seniors each summer to spend a long weekend in Tallahassee learning about community and academic resources, disability history, career options and personal leadership. They also take part in social activities which enable them to network, learn from each other and build friendships that will last a lifetime.
The YLF is one of three youth programs of The Able Trust that works to reduce the dropout rate of youth with disabilities and improve their participation in employment related activities. These programs focus on building self-esteem, developing personal leadership skills and preparing young adults with disabilities for life beyond high school.
YLF 2012 Spotlight: Renzo Burga, 2009 Alum
Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year.
During this time of renewal, we see trees and other flora come to life, budding in beautiful colors.
Renzo and fellow Facilitator Support Staff member Isaac Byer sit in the House Chambers of the Florida Capitol during "Capitol Day".
To see the same thing happen in the life of a young adult is even more amazing.
Renzo Burga is a 2009 alum of the Florida Youth Leadership Forum. This young man has been invited back to YLF each year since, and will have the honor this year of leading his own group of delegates as a facilitator. Currently in his freshman year at Broward College in South Florida, Renzo is a great role model for incoming students, and has taken the time to share a little about his journey in his own words.
Facilitator Support Staff serve as role models for first-time students. Here Renzo spends some time with delegate Joseph Paola before an event.
I chose to go to Broward College because classes are highly prepared for anyone who has accommodation issues based on their special needs, and I can get through with the academic courses within 2 years so I can get my Associate of Arts degree to transfer to other universities. Usually college seems easier that high school, but depending on the expectations of the professors it may sometimes be quite challenging. Some classes evaluate students more on tests while others evaluate more on the assignments, such as homework and class work. So far I’ve completed 12 credits and have a GPA of 4.0, since I’m highly focused on my classes as a full time student. I’m also part of the Broward College's Honors institute.
Activities that I’m interested in are the Computer club (since my major is in computer science) and Phi Theta Kappa (an honor society for two-year colleges). In Phi Theta Kappa, I got elected as a public relations officer for the summer and fall term of 2012. Mainly in those activities what I do is attend general meetings and volunteer in special events such as fundraisers.
Renzo is now a freshman at Broward College. His leadership and heart for others will benefit him as he leads his own group of delegates at this summer's forum.
I’m still attending the Youth Leadership Forum as a volunteer. It is important to participate in YLF as a volunteer because the more you help participants and others with their needs and expectations, the more likely you will become highly recognized as a good example toward the others. You will end up having more social interactions and more friends every year you come, and the more you serve, the more likely you’ll be known as a good leader.
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