The Young Women Leaders Leadership Conference, under the mentorship of AAUW MH, was held at Central High School, Morgan Hill, on March 9, 2024. The session topics, such as Communication, STEM careers, Finance, Teen Health, Interviewing Skills, Leadership Skills, Small Business, Environmental advocacy, and Racial Injustice, were led by experts and our own YWL members. The keynote address was presented by Diya Kandhra, a former Tech Trek and YWL member. Diya had just participated in a Global Environmental experience in Dubai. She spoke eloquently about her life as an environmental advocate. The participants responded enthusiastically and many of them had private conversations with Diya. The conference ended with a rollicking UJAM session and door prizes.

The participant survey reflected the positive learning experience of the conference: “the highlight was getting to interact with each other,” “learning different ways to advocate for yourself,” “I learned to be a leader, regardless of my age.” 74% of respondents indicated they would return to the conference in 2025.

We wish to thank all our AAUW volunteers and our sponsors: Silicon Valley Clean Energy and County of Santa Clara Commission on the Status of Women for their support and belief in our conference.

Carol Ferri, Young Women Leaders Coordinator

Photos by Elizabeth Mandel