The Arizona Youth Engagement Academy (AZYEA) empowers graduates of the Arizona Youth Leadership Forum (AZYLF) to become confident peer leaders with Diverse Ability Incorporated and in their communities.

At AZYEA, youth and young adults engage in hands-on training that develops their skills and boosts their confidence. Participants will learn valuable presentation and peer-to-peer facilitation abilities such as:

• Crafting great self-introductions
• Leading engaging discussions
• Guiding small group activities
• Creating fun learning experiences
• Giving and receiving helpful feedback
• Facilitating Person-Centered Planning (PCP) sessions

During this program, participants will work in pairs or small groups and practice their skills by facilitating real workshops created by Diverse Ability Incorporated. These workshops include discussions, videos, interactive activities, and personal stories, making the experience meaningful and relatable.

By the end of AZYEA, participants will be better prepared to become paid Arizona Young Adult Leaders with Diverse Ability Incorporated. This role offers young people opportunities to:

• Facilitate events hosted by Diverse Ability Incorporated, including AZYLF and AZYEA
• Present or co-present workshops and training sessions
• Represent Diverse Ability Incorporated at transition fairs and community events
• Conduct outreach for Diverse Ability Incorporated’s youth leadership programs
• Collaborate on community, state, and national levels