Less than 20% of young people in low-income communities have access to leadership programs. At the same time, 4 in 10 U.S. high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
What would it look like to design a youth leadership program that centers well-being, access, and belonging, not just achievement?
That question led to the creation of The Becoming Initiative, Milaan Foundation’s youth leadership and well-being program in Michigan. Now piloting at Grand Ledge High School (GLHS), the program is redefining what teen leadership development can look like when every student is invited to lead.
We spoke with Milaan’s Director of Programs & Operations Kendra and GLHS Unified Coordinator Natalie about why this work matters now more than ever.
Closing the Leadership Gap
Kendra, what gap did you see in youth leadership programming in the U.S.?
KN: Our analysis of teen leadership programs throughout the United States reveals a consistent trend that many are designed for high-achieving teens who already have access to enrichment opportunities. The Becoming Initiative intentionally shifts this approach by centering the strengths, aspirations, and lived experiences of youth with limited access to such opportunities. Through this lens, the program cultivates well-being, leadership capacity, and future-ready skills.
Participants gain the tools, support, and real-world experiences needed to navigate challenges, pursue higher education and career pathways, and lead with purpose in their communities. At the same time, Milaan addresses systemic gaps by advancing equity—intentionally engaging youth who face barriers to enrichment and offering hybrid program models that reduce geographic and financial limitations to access.
From Girl Icon to Michigan Classrooms
How did Milaan Foundation’s experience working with youth in India shape the program in the US?
KN: Milaan Foundation has long centered youth voice and leadership across our programs in India, Uganda, and now the United States. The Becoming Initiative builds on this legacy as an extension of our flagship Girl Icon Program, which cultivates leadership, life skills, and well-being among adolescent girls in India. The impact of Girl Icon has been truly life-changing for participants, demonstrating what’s possible when young people are trusted, supported, and equipped to lead. Drawing from this model, we asked ourselves what it could look like to bring that same leadership potential to teens in the United States. While the contexts for adolescents in India and the U.S. differ in important ways, there are striking parallels—particularly in unequal access to resources, enrichment opportunities, mentorship, and leadership development. The Becoming Initiative was intentionally designed to be adaptable across multiple contexts, incorporating core elements of the Girl Icon Program that we know can create meaningful, lasting impact for teens in the United States.
A Truly Inclusive Cohort at Grand Ledge
The Grand Ledge pilot is a unique partnership with Grand Ledge High School’s Unified Program, which brings together teens with disabilities and their peer mentors.
Natalie, what makes this program different?
NA: What stands out is that it’s tailored for all our students’ abilities. Having some hands-on projects that accompany each lesson helps students apply the information in a more valuable way. It’s not just discussion, it’s action.
What are you noticing about how students show up?
NA: Students seem to be relaxed during the lessons. They enjoy working with others and learning different perspectives.
Why Youth Leadership Matters Now
Kendra, can you talk about why it’s important to invest in youth leadership at this moment?
KN: Young people today are navigating a growing mental health crisis shaped by many intersecting factors. The digital world they live in plays a significant role, often contributing to a lack of genuine connection, feelings of loneliness, and a sense of being misunderstood—compounded by the broader divisions we see across our country. This is why investing in strong leadership must begin with young people. We want them to recognize their own potential and understand the meaningful impact they can have on the world. That journey starts within—by developing a deep understanding of who they are, what they value, and how their actions and leadership influence those around them.
What We Hope Students Carry Forward
At the end of the cohort, Kendra hopes participants leave feeling energized by their growth.
“I hope they leave with a deeper understanding of themselves, carry empathy into their relationships, and recognize the impact they can have in their communities.”
Natalie sees a culture shift emerging at Grand Ledge High School:
“I am excited how the student body works together. Each student has a role in their own way. Whether it be a voice, action, drawing, and/or choice…..everyone can be a leader in one way or another. I appreciate the students are learning that everyone’s ability has value and it needs to be respected. It is becoming the culture at GLHS!”
Applications for the next Becoming Initiative cohort are now open for teens in Michigan.
If you are a student, parent, or educator interested in bringing inclusive youth leadership development to your community, learn more at the link below:
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