At Proteus, we’re committed to supporting farm workers and their families. The Farmworker Youth Leadership Development (FYLD) program is a special opportunity for young people aged 16 to 21 to grow as leaders and make a difference.
The FYLD program is a 10-week online course designed specifically for youth who have either done farm work themselves or are children of farmworkers. Our goal is to empower our participants with the skills, support, and mentorship they require to become future professionals and community leaders.
Why Join FYLD?
- Build Leadership Skills: Learn about mindfulness, emotional intelligence, ethics, networking, problem-solving, anti-racism, and advocacy. These skills are essential for any future leader!
- Personal Mentorship: Enjoy one-on-one advice and support from our experienced instructor.
- Free and Flexible: The course is online and completely free, including all materials. Plus, we offer financial incentives for those who complete it.
- Expert Insights: Hear from guest speakers who are experts in fields like education, management, advocacy, technology, and the arts.
- Practical Skills: Gain valuable experience in professional development, digital literacy, effective writing, and public speaking.
I gained leadership skills through the weekly classes that I will use in all aspects of my life.
FYLD Participant, Spring 2024 Cohort
Program Eligibility
- Must be between 16 and 21 years old.
- Must be a farmworker or a family member of a farmworker.
- Must have a desire to develop leadership skills and make a positive impact in your community.
- Must be able to commit to the entire course schedule (determined at the point of acceptance into the program).
How It Works
- Apply: Fill out a short application to get started.
- Eligibility Check: Our team will review your application to determine eligibility.
- Acceptance: If accepted, we will contact you with all the information and materials you need to get started. There’s no set academic calendar, so you can join in spring, summer, fall, or winter.
- Attend Classes: Participate in the classes, which will take place online over the course of 10 weeks
- Graduate: Upon completing the course, you will receive a graduation certificate and, if eligible, a financial incentive.
Meet Your Instructor, Carol Mendez
Carol Mendez is a passionate education professional with over a decade of experience in equitable education and youth empowerment. A first-generation college graduate, Carol grew up as a farmworker youth, with her parents working tirelessly in the fields. Her lived experiences have fueled her dedication to supporting young leaders from similar backgrounds.
Throughout her career, Carol has excelled in roles such as school leadership, academic coaching, and curriculum development with organizations like Avenue Scholars, Kairos Academies, and Butler Academy. As a former Dean of Academics and instructional leader, she has a proven track record of fostering student success, mentoring educators, and creating transformative learning experiences. Carol’s unique combination of personal and professional expertise allows her to deeply connect with youth, inspiring them to embrace their leadership potential and thrive.
To be eligible for participation in the FYLD program, and individual:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Classes are offered every season: spring, summer, fall, and winter. The exact schedule will be provided once you are accepted into the program.
Farmwork typically includes activities related to the planting, cultivating, harvesting, or processing of crops, or working with animals. There is a lot of work to do on a farm, and if you’ve ever worked in agriculture or horticulture, there’s a good chance you may qualify. If you’re unsure whether your experience qualifies, please contact us, and we’ll help determine your eligibility.
Yes, the program is designed to be flexible and accommodate your schedule. The coursework requires about 60 to 90 minutes of independent study each week, which can be managed alongside your other commitments.
No, the FYLD program is completely free, including all course materials and access to online resources.
Students who successfully complete the course may be eligible for a financial incentive. Specific details will be provided once you are enrolled in the program.
Completing the FYLD program will equip you with valuable leadership skills, enhance your professional development, and provide you with networking opportunities. Additionally, you will receive a graduation certificate and may be eligible for a financial incentive.
Upon successfully completing the course, you will be awarded a graduation certificate and any eligible financial incentives. Details on how these will be distributed will be provided by the FYLD team.
You will receive ongoing support from the instructor and the FYLD team. This includes one-on-one mentorship, access to guest speakers, and guidance throughout the course.
To apply, fill out a short application form. Our team will review your application and contact you with the next steps.
Yes, if you are not accepted initially, you are welcome to reapply for future sessions.
Classes are held online via Google Classroom. You will be invited to join the class once you are accepted into the program.
The classes are designed to be challenging but also accessible and respectful of your time. You can expect to spend about 60 to 90 minutes a week on independent study. Our experienced instructor is committed to supporting you through the learning process.
Proteus, Inc. is unable to provide electronic devices such as laptops or tablets for students. However, please contact us directly to discuss your needs. We strive to support our students and can explore options to ensure you have access to the necessary technology for the course.
No, all necessary reading materials and resources will be provided to you at no cost.
If you’re unable to complete the course, please let us know as soon as possible. We understand that circumstances can change, and we will work with you to explore your options.
The duration of the program varies depending on the schedule for each season. Typically, the class will last about 10 weeks. Specific timelines will be provided once you are accepted into the program.
Contact Us
If you have any other questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us directly. We’re here to help you on your journey to becoming a leader in your community!
Join us in the Farmworker Youth Leadership Development program and start shaping your future today!