FUTURO Leadership Program

The Futuro Latino Youth Leadership Program is a free, week-long program that prepares Montclair-area Latino teens to lead with confidence and cultural pride.

About the Program

Futuro – Latino Youth Leadership Program is a free, week-long leadership program that prepares Montclair-area teens to lead with confidence and cultural pride. Ten selected students explore what it means to be a Latino community leader — then put it into practice as counselors for Ritmo Jardín, our youth cultural-enrichment program. Graduates are honored with a certificate at the Latino Heritage Celebration, completing a summer-long journey from learner to leader.

At a glance

  • Ages 13–16

  • July 20–24, 2026 · 6–8 PM · In person in Montclair, NJ

  • 100% free · Dinner provided

  • 10 students only

PROGRAM DETAILS

  • LEARN - One intensive week of leadership training — self-discovery, cultural identity, civics, financial literacy, and public speaking — led by our partners at Yoshida Academy and Latino professionals.

  • LEAD - Graduates step up as counselors and mentors for Ritmo Jardín, guiding younger kids through our summer cultural-enrichment program.

  • BE RECOGNIZED - Students are honored with a certificate at the Latino Heritage Celebration on September 20, 2026 — in front of family, friends, and community leaders.

WHAT YOUR TEEN WILL LEARN

  • Self-Discovery & Cultural Identity: Who am I? - "Mi Historia" storytelling and owning your heritage as a leadership strength.

  • The Power of a Vision: What do I want for my community? - How to make your voice heard, local government, Latino changemakers, and becoming a leader.

  • Essential Life Skills : How do it do it? — career panels with Latino professionals, budgeting, and goal-setting

  • Effective Communication: How do I make my voice heard? — Public speaking fundamentals, body language 101, and creating a memorable personal introduction.

  • Counselor Training: How I will lead? — Team building, mentorship skills, and a pledge ceremony.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Week 1: Monday, July 20 - Friday, July 24 (6-8PM)
Week 2: Monday, July 27 (5:15PM-8:45PM)
Week 3: Monday, August 3 (5:15PM-8:45PM)
Week 4: Monday, August 10 (5:15PM-8:45PM)
Week 5: Monday, August 17 (5:15PM-8:45PM)
Week 6: Monday, August 24 (5:15PM-8:45PM)
Week 7: Tuesday, September 8 (Due to Labor Day) (5:15PM-8:45PM)
Week 8: Monday, September 14 (Rehearsal) (5:15PM-8:45PM)
Week 9: Friday, September 19 (Final Rehearsal) (5:15PM-8:45PM)
Ceremony: Sunday, September 20 – Latino Heritage Celebration

WHAT GRADUATES EARN

  • Community-service hours

  • A certificate awarded at the Latino Heritage Celebration (September 20, 2026)

  • The experience of mentoring kids as a Ritmo Jardín counselor

  • A network of mentors and fellow young leaders

WHO CAN APPLY

  • Open to teens ages 13–16. Applying is simple: a short essay or one-minute video on why you want to lead, plus one reference. The selection committee will admit 10 students who commit to serving as Ritmo Jardín counselors.

To reserve a spot after selection, families place a $100 deposit — refunded in full upon completion of the program.

KEY DATES

  • Application deadlineJuly 15, 2026

  • Selection notificationJuly 17, 2026

  • Program weekJuly 20–24, 2026 · 6–8 PM

  • Certificate ceremony September 20, 2026 (Latino Heritage Celebration)

PROGRAM COST - FREE - Upon selection participants will submit a $100 refundable deposit.

IN PARTNERSHIP Yoshida Academy

APPLY TODAY