Registration Now Open for 25th Annual Leaders in Life Youth Conference, March 13

More than 25 years ago, Kern County businessman Morgan Clayton sat among industry leaders at the Bakersfield Business Conference, an event known for bringing together some of the most influential minds in business and politics. As he listened to discussions about leadership and innovation, an idea sparked — why wasn’t there a similar space for young people? A space where students, not adults, could take the lead in discussing the issues that shaped their daily lives?

With that vision in mind, Clayton partnered with the Kern County Network for Children and the Kern County Superintendent of Schools office (KCSOS) to create something new: a youth-led conference designed by students, for students. What started as an ambitious concept became reality in February 2000, when the first-ever Leaders in Life Youth Conference welcomed 500 students. Since then, the event has grown into one of the largest youth-led conferences in the nation, drawing hundreds of young leaders together each year.

Fast forward more than two decades and the event is gearing up for its 25^th installment of inspiration, education, and empowerment. Set for Thursday, March 13, at the Mechanics Bank Convention Center, this year’s conference will continue to provide students with a platform to tackle the issues that matter most to them — whether it’s mental health, substance abuse, leadership, or planning for their future.

What makes Leaders in Life unique is its commitment to student-driven discussions. Under the leadership of KCSOS, and advising from adult mentors, the conference gives youth a seat at the table, allowing them to take charge of their own learning and leadership journeys. This year’s event will feature two powerhouse keynote speakers: Dr. Laymon Hicks, a nationally recognized motivational speaker known for his high-energy talks on resilience, and Ashley Bendiksen, a personal development expert whose message of empowerment has resonated with students nationwide.

Beyond the keynote addresses, students will engage in breakout sessions covering a range of real-world topics, including personal finance, public speaking, career readiness, and time management. They’ll also have the opportunity to explore a resource fair where local organizations will showcase programs that support youth success in education, career planning, and well-being.

With registration now open, schools and agencies are encouraged to select a diverse group of students to attend, especially those who may not typically have access to leadership-building opportunities. The $25 registration fee includes lunch, conference materials, and an official Leaders in Life t-shirt, which all participants are required to wear for security purposes. Additionally, thanks to support from KCSOS’s Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program, foster and homeless youth can attend at no cost. The deadline to register is March 1.

For more information or to register, visit www.leadersinlife.org or contact Anna Espinoza at anespinoza@kern.org.