--- title: The Trans Youth Leadership Lab | The GenderCool Project canonical: https://gendercool.org/trans-youth-leadership-lab description: An 8-week virtual leadership program for trans and nonbinary high school youth. Fall 2026 cohort runs Sept 29 – Nov 17. Mentors include Raquel Willis, Erin Reed, and Zoey Zephyr. Apply by July 17, 2026. keywords: Trans Youth Leadership Lab, TYLL, trans youth leadership program, nonbinary youth program, transgender high school leadership, Raquel Willis mentor, Erin Reed journalist, Zoey Zephyr state representative, GenderCool Lab, trans youth cohort, LGBTQ+ youth fellowship, virtual leadership program LGBTQ, summer program transgender teens, trans youth program 2026 last_updated: 2026-06-22 --- # The Trans Youth Leadership Lab | The GenderCool Project > An 8-week virtual cohort for trans and nonbinary high school youth — building the next generation of leaders. ## About the Program The Trans Youth Leadership Lab (TYLL) is GenderCool's flagship youth development program. It's an intensive, community-centered 8-week virtual cohort designed exclusively for transgender and nonbinary high school students. Participants build real-world leadership skills, develop advocacy projects, connect with peers across the country, and learn from some of the most respected voices in trans advocacy. ## At a Glance | Detail | Info | |---|---| | Duration | 8 weeks (virtual) | | Cohort size | 12–15 participants | | Schedule | Tuesdays, 7:00–8:30 PM ET | | Fall 2026 dates | September 29 – November 17, 2026 | | Who can apply | Trans and nonbinary high school students | ## What You'll Learn 1. **Leadership & advocacy skills** — Real-world tools for making change in your community and beyond 2. **Storytelling & identity** — Explore your story, your voice, and the impact you want to make 3. **Peer connection** — Connect with trans and nonbinary youth from across the United States 4. **Mentorship** — Learn from nationally recognized trans advocates, journalists, and policymakers 5. **Capstone project** — Create a meaningful project rooted in your own goals and interests ## Who Should Apply? We're looking for a passionate, collaborative group of young leaders to join our pilot cohort. You should apply if you meet the following criteria: - **Gender Identity** — You identify as transgender, nonbinary, or gender-expansive. - **Academic Status** — You will be a high school student (grades 9–12) during the 2026–2027 academic year. - **Core Program Commitment** — You can commit to the full 8-week virtual program every Tuesday evening from 7:00–8:30 PM ET, September 29 through November 17, 2026. - **Mentorship Commitment** — You can take part in 4 mentorship meetings over the program. Each is 30–60 minutes and scheduled around your availability. - **Interests** — You're eager to build leadership skills, connect with a supportive community, and dive into topics like digital storytelling, public speaking, and sustaining joy. ## Mentors (Fall 2026) ### Raquel Willis — Activist, Writer & Strategist A nationally recognized trans activist, writer, and media strategist whose work has appeared in major publications and media outlets across the country. ### Erin Reed — Journalist & Trans Advocate An independent journalist and trans advocate known for in-depth reporting on anti-trans legislation and trans rights across the United States. ### Zoey Zephyr — State Representative & Activist A Montana state representative and one of the first openly transgender legislators in the state, known for her powerful advocacy for trans rights and democracy. ## Mentorship Every participant is paired 1:1 with an experienced trans or nonbinary Champion mentor for all 8 weeks. The time commitment is light: mentor and mentee meet for a 30–60 minute one-on-one session approximately once every two weeks, with quick check-ins via Slack in between. In the second half of the program, mentors provide feedback and guidance on Capstone Project development. Mentorship offers valuable professional networking and support for your leadership journey. ## What You'll Walk Away With Eight weeks is just the start. Here's what participants carry forward long after the program ends: - **Confidence & advocacy** — Real confidence and sharper advocacy skills to use in school, community, and beyond. - **Portfolio-ready work** — Storytelling and leadership artifacts ready for applications, interviews, and portfolios. - **A path forward** — A lasting connection to GenderCool and a clear path to keep growing as a leader over time. - **Community & belonging** — A supportive network of peers and mentors, and a genuine sense of belonging. ## Application Timeline (Fall 2026) | Milestone | Date | |---|---| | Applications Open | May 1, 2026 | | Applications Close | **July 17, 2026** | | Interviews | July 20–30, 2026 | | Cohort Announced | August 7, 2026 | | Program Begins | September 29, 2026 | ## Frequently Asked Questions ### About the Program **What is the Trans Youth Leadership Lab (TYLL)?** TYLL is an 8-week virtual leadership program from The GenderCool Project designed to empower trans and nonbinary young people. Participants build leadership, advocacy, and storytelling skills alongside a community of peers from across the country. **Who is eligible to participate?** TYLL is open to any trans or nonbinary young person who will be a high school student during the 2026–2027 academic year. **Does the program cost anything?** No. TYLL is completely free. In fact, we provide a $300 stipend to each participant in recognition of their time, commitment, and the value they bring to the program. **When does the program take place?** The program runs for 8 sessions on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 PM ET, beginning September 29 and concluding November 17, 2026. **Where does the program take place?** TYLL is held entirely virtually, so participants can join from anywhere. ### Application Process **How do I apply?** Applications are submitted through our online form, open now through July 17, 2026. The form includes short-answer and essay questions, a video submission, a parent or guardian consent form, and an optional letter of recommendation. **When will I find out if I'm accepted?** Applicants will be notified of decisions by August 7, 2026. **Do I need a letter of recommendation?** No — a letter of recommendation is optional, but we strongly encourage one. A note from a teacher, mentor, coach, faith leader, or other trusted adult (not a family member) helps us get to know you and strengthens your application. **Do I need parent or guardian permission?** Yes. Because participants are minors, a parent or guardian must complete a consent form as part of the application. ### The Experience **What will I learn?** Participants build skills in leadership, public speaking and storytelling, advocacy, media and communications, and community building — plus the confidence to share their own stories on their own terms. **What's the time commitment?** Beyond the eight 90-minute sessions, expect light between-session activities like reflection prompts, optional readings, or small group connections. For the mentorship piece, mentees meet with their mentor about once every two weeks for 30–60 minutes, with additional check-ins via Slack. We aim to keep the workload manageable alongside school and life. **Will my information be kept private?** Yes. We take participant privacy seriously. Photo and video releases are entirely optional, with three levels of permission so you and your family can choose what feels right. **What happens after the program ends?** Graduates join the GenderCool community and can stay involved through alumni events, leadership opportunities, and ongoing connection with peers and mentors. ### Logistics & Support **What technology do I need?** You'll need a computer or tablet with a working camera and microphone, plus a reliable internet connection. If access is a barrier, please reach out — we'll work with you. **How is the stipend distributed?** Details on stipend distribution will be shared with accepted participants. Stipends are issued upon completion of the program. **Who can I contact with questions?** Reach out to us anytime at info@gendercool.org. ## Apply Applications are open to trans and nonbinary high school students across the United States. **Apply at:** https://cdn.jotfor.ms/260784268000050 [Learn more and apply at gendercool.org/trans-youth-leadership-lab →](https://gendercool.org/trans-youth-leadership-lab)