Be The Conductor Program

In 2026, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is launching Be the Conductor^®: Young Changemakers Leadership Lab, a social justice leadership experience that helps young people study the past, understand the present, and lead justice-centered change in their communities, schools and careers.

Be the Conductor^®: Young Changemakers Leadership Lab is designed for people ages 18-25 who are committed to creating positive change in their schools, neighborhoods and communities.

Through eight weeks of workshops, mentorship and hands-on projects, participants will strengthen their leadership skills, deepen their understanding of equity and justice, and collaborate with peers to design meaningful community impact initiatives.

Through this eight-week program, participants will:

• Explore core concepts of social justice including identity, equity, access, and collective responsibility.

• Develop practical leadership tools such as facilitation, problem-solving, public speaking, collaboration, and project design.

• Engage with local leaders, artists, organizers, and educators who model what justice-driven leadership looks like in action.

• Create and implement an Impact Project, using your skills to address a real need within your school, neighborhood, or community.

SEE – History & Truth

SENSE – Self & Story

SKILL – Tools for Change

SERVE – Action & Impact

Are the sessions in-person or virtual?

I have an attendance conflict. Can I still apply?

When is the program?

Who do I contact if I have more questions?

Your Information

Full name *

Date of birth *

Email *

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Mailing Address *

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City

State

Zip Code

Phone *

Organization affiliation (school or company)

Year of college or career

Essay

In 500-750 words, reflect on your interest in joining this program by describing what motivates you to learn about social justice and leadership, and which issues you care about most and why. Share a moment when you took initiative or spoke up for something important, explaining the impact of your actions. Discuss the strengths, such as communication, creativity, empathy, determination, or problem-solving that you would bring to a team. Describe the skills or experiences you hope to gain through this program and how you plan to use them moving forward.

Essay Response *

We encourage thoughtful, authentic responses. There are no “right” answers. You can also upload your essay if you prefer, below.

You can also upload your essay.

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We encourage thoughtful, authentic responses. There are no “right” answers. You can also upload your essay if you prefer, below.

If you prefer to make a video response as your essay, you can provide an access link below.

We encourage thoughtful, authentic responses. There are no “right” answers. You can also upload your essay if you prefer, below.

Commitment & Availability

This program includes six regular workshops and a final project.

Are you able to commit to attending program sessions and participating actively? *

Yes
No
Unsure

If you selected "Unsure" above, please explain.

Do you have any scheduling conflicts we should know about?

Please provide one letter of recommendation/nomination from a non-family member. *

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CERTIFICATION and AUTHORIZATION *

I certify that the information provided in this application is true, correct and complete. I authorize verification of all statements contained in this Application. I authorize the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to conduct a background screening as applicable. I authorize former employers and/or educational institutions to provide information concerning me, and I release them from liability for providing any such information to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

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