Leadership Begins
With Experience
The Leadership Development Intern Program (LDIP) is a three-year leadership journey for African American young women in grades 10–12. Each year, interns take part in a focused six-month season—August through February—of mentorship, scholarship support, professional exposure, academic enrichment, and community leadership.
What Interns Experience
LDIP is more than a program—it’s a sisterhood and a supportive leadership experience that shapes confident, college-ready, and community-minded leaders.
Leadership Workshops
Interactive sessions that build confidence, communication, and leadership skills.
Mentorship
One-on-one guidance from dynamic women leaders in business, education, and the community.
College Readiness
Academic enrichment, test prep guidance, and college planning support.
Community Service
Meaningful service projects that inspire civic responsibility and leadership in action.
Cultural Enrichment
Celebrating heritage and broadening perspectives through cultural experiences.
Professional Exposure
Networking, career exploration, and firsthand insight from professional women leaders and workplace visits.
Growing. Learning. Leading.
Three years of mentorship, leadership, and growth that prepare young women for college, careers, and life.
Discover
Building confidence, sisterhood, and leadership foundations through mentorship and community engagement.
Develop
Expanding academic, cultural, and professional exposure while strengthening communication and leadership skills.
Lead
Preparing to lead with purpose through service, college readiness, and meaningful leadership experiences.
Mentorship That Makes a Difference
Each intern is paired with a Role Model—an accomplished woman leader from the San Diego business, education, and professional community who inspires, challenges, and empowers her to see beyond her circumstances and step into her potential.
These relationships broaden vision, nurture passion, and fuel a genuine desire to learn and to lead—often lasting far beyond the program itself.
Beyond the Classroom
LDIP interns take part in leadership, service, cultural, and mentoring opportunities throughout the program.
Leadership Events
Opportunities to practice communication, public speaking, and leadership.
Cultural Experiences
Activities that broaden perspectives and connect interns with community and culture.
Community Service
Hands-on service that encourages responsibility and care for others.
Mentorship
Support and guidance from women who encourage interns throughout the program.
A Celebration of Leadership
The Leadership Development Intern Program concludes with the Leadership Rites of Passage Ceremony, where interns are recognized for their growth, accomplishments, and readiness for what comes next. Graduates receive awards, scholarships, and encouragement as they prepare to begin their next chapter.
Apply to the ProgramReady to Begin Your Leadership Journey?
Join a sisterhood of young women committed to leadership, scholarship, service, and excellence—and take the first step toward who you’re becoming.