Por JC Montenegro, PhD
(Los Angeles, California) – As women around the world take on more leadership roles, empowering young women with skills and confidence is essential. This year, 22 young women from the Salesian Family Youth Center joined the Women in Leadership Conference hosted by the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. Accompanied by Executive Director Juan Carlos Montenegro and board members, these young leaders gained insights into mental health, inclusivity, resilience, and open communication, vital foundations for modern leadership.
Key Takeaways from the Conference
Mental Health as a Foundation
“Mental health is not just for personal well-being but is also foundational for balanced leadership,” shared Juan Carlos Montenegro. Practicing “militant self-care”—a conference theme—taught the young women that prioritizing wellness enables them to uplift others effectively.
Creating Safe Spaces
The importance of regular check-ins and asking colleagues, “How can I support you?” stood out as a key practice for building respectful, inclusive environments where everyone feels valued. “Safe spaces foster collaboration and respect,” noted board member Miriam Hernandez.
Women’s Health and Economic Stability
The connection between women’s health, particularly around menopause, and workforce productivity resonated strongly. The young women saw how supporting health at all life stages benefits workplace stability—a critical insight into how leaders can drive change in policies and practices.
Destigmatizing Therapy and Wellness
The conference promoted therapy as essential for personal growth. One young leader shared, “Therapy is vital for our development as leaders.” Destigmatizing mental wellness is fundamental in creating supportive, thriving communities.
Open Communication
Open, transparent communication was emphasized as a core leadership skill. The young women learned that honesty and vulnerability build trust, creating stronger, more supportive teams.
Building Resilience and Purpose
One of the most inspiring lessons was the power of resilience. As future leaders, they learned that facing challenges head-on while reconnecting with their purpose will drive them forward. “Resilience is our greatest asset,” reflected one attendee.
The Salesian Family Youth Center’s Impact
For those unfamiliar with the Salesian Family Youth Center, this organization is a beacon of youth empowerment in Los Angeles, helping young people from diverse backgrounds develop into confident, capable leaders. This conference is just one example of its dedication to fostering growth, skills, and resilience in youth, especially young women.
A Lasting Impact
Watching these young women confidently network and learn was a proud moment for the Salesian Family Youth Center, underscoring its commitment to shaping future leaders. This experience not only equipped them with essential leadership tools but also inspired them to create positive change, reflecting the broader impact of investing in young women worldwide.