Hispanic Youth Leadership Academy announces summer leadership development programs for Latinx youth in partnership with The United Methodist Church and The Episcopal Church
BOSTON, MA—The Hispanic Youth Leadership Academy (HYLA) today announced its summer leadership development programs for Latinx high school and college students across the United States and abroad. For over 20 years, HYLA through these programs has supported high school youth and college young adults as they explore their vocation, deepen their faith, and serve within their churches and communities. This initiative, organized by The United Methodist Church in 2003 and supported by The Episcopal Church since 2021, empowers young Latinx leaders by supporting their journeys of faith, enhancing educational pursuits, and strengthening their leadership skills.
This year’s programs are especially significant following the historic decision at The United Methodist Church General Conference to further seek full communion with The Episcopal Church. HYLA strongly supports this decision and looks forward to further partnership in ministry and service between these two denominations.
This summer, HYLA will host three pivotal leadership training programs:
1. July 12-14 in Washington, D.C.: In collaboration with our Episcopal siblings, this training will unite students in exploring vocational development and leadership in the church. Though HYLA has been in partnership with The Episcopal Church for several years, we look forward to celebrating our newly affirmed ecumenical partnership. This session will be held at the Maritime Conference Center.
2. July 24-27 in Nashville, TN: Focused on high school and college students, this event will be held in the heart of United Methodism at the Scarritt Bennett Center. Participants will engage in sessions that foster spiritual growth and leadership skills, essential for their roles in the church and society.
3. August 6-16 in Austin, TX: Our final session, for upper level college and seminary students, will be held at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, our newest partner institution. This gathering will serve as a transformative experience for participants, nurturing a pipeline of a new generation of United Methodist and Episcopal Latinx leaders. To do this, this program will strengthen leadership capabilities, foster growth and continuity, and enhance HYLA’s capacity to achieve its mission effectively across various levels and areas of work. At this session too will be representatives from HYLA Colombia, HYLA Peru, and The Episocpal Church.
All HYLA programs follow a comprehensive three-year curriculum focused on Christian discipleship, leadership in the church, and access to higher education. Additionally, HYLA is committed to further supporting Latinx youth by facilitating engagement with experienced mentors including pastors, seminary faculty, and Latinx leaders from the United Methodist and Episcopal traditions.
“HYLA continues to be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change among Latinx youth,” said Dr. Emma Escobar, president of HYLA’s Board of Directors. “We are excited about our ecumenical partnerships because we believe they enrich our mission, allowing us to embrace a broader community and deepen our collective impact.”
Media and community stakeholders are invited to join HYLA in supporting these young Latinx leaders. Through your own vocations, prayers, and generous giving, all which support HYLA’s long term sustainability, you can help the next generations of leaders participate in our programs. As our emerging leaders embark on their vocational, educational, and leadership journeys, we look forward to partnering with you.
About the Hispanic Youth Leadership Academy
The Hispanic Youth Leadership Academy (HYLA) aims to identify, recruit, and develop the leadership capabilities of Latinx youth in the United States for the church and their communities. Through its robust programs and ecumenical partnerships, HYLA nurtures the spiritual and leadership potential of young people, encouraging them to lead with faith and integrity.
Media Contact
Juan Josue “J.J.” Martinez
Hispanic Youth Leadership Academy
juanjm@bu.edu