Young people across Los Angeles have a chance to learn how local government works, meet City leaders, and connect with other youth who want to make a difference in their communities. The Los Angeles Department of Neighborhood Empowerment, also known as EmpowerLA, is hosting the 2026 EmpowerLA Youth Conference on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Los Angeles City Hall.
This free, one-day event is designed for youth ages 14 to 17 who have a stake in the City of Los Angeles. Attendees will learn about the Neighborhood Council system, take part in workshops and panel discussions, and explore ways to become more involved in civic life.
What Is the 2026 EmpowerLA Youth Conference?
The 2026 EmpowerLA Youth Conference is a one-day event focused on civic engagement, youth leadership, and grassroots democracy. EmpowerLA says the conference is meant to engage and inspire young people from across Los Angeles by giving them a closer look at how the Neighborhood Council system works and how they can make their voices heard.
Attendees will have the opportunity to:
Learn how the Neighborhood Council system works
Neighborhood Councils play an important role in connecting residents with City government. At the conference, youth will get an introduction to the system and learn how local voices can help shape decisions in their communities.
Hear from City leaders and community voices
The event will include speakers, workshops, and panel discussions focused on youth leadership and civic participation. Students will also have the chance to hear directly from local leaders about the value of getting involved early.
Meet other young people from across Los Angeles
This year’s conference will bring together 100 selected youth from different parts of the city. It is a chance to network with other young changemakers and build connections with peers who care about their neighborhoods and their future.
Explore resources and opportunities
In addition to workshops and discussions, the conference will feature a resource fair with more than a dozen City departments and trusted community partners. That gives attendees a chance to learn about programs, services, and ways to stay engaged after the event.
When and Where Is the Event?
The 2026 EmpowerLA Youth Conference will be held on:
Saturday, June 6, 2026
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Los Angeles City Hall
200 N. Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Breakfast and lunch will be provided at no cost to all attendees.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To be considered for the 2026 EmpowerLA Youth Conference, applicants must:
- Be between 14 and 17 years old
- Have stakeholder status within the City of Los Angeles
Examples of stakeholder status include youth who:
- Live in Los Angeles
- Go to school in Los Angeles
- Volunteer in Los Angeles
- Work in Los Angeles
- Belong to an institution or organization in Los Angeles
Only 100 applicants will be invited to attend, so space is limited.
How to Register
Youth who are interested in attending must complete the online registration form. The deadline to apply is:
Friday, April 24, 2026, by 11:59 p.m.
It is important to note that submitting a registration form does not guarantee entry to the conference. Selected attendees will receive an invitation by email and must confirm their attendance by the stated deadline in order to keep their spot. If they do not confirm in time, the spot may be offered to another registrant.
What Else Should Applicants Know?
Here are a few more details families and students should know before applying:
The event is free
There is no cost to attend the conference, and both breakfast and lunch will be provided.
Dress code is business casual
EmpowerLA recommends business casual attire for the event.
Parents and guardians may be accommodated
Parents or guardians can attend if arrangements are made in advance with the conference organizers.
ADA accommodations are available
Anyone who needs accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to complete the application should contact Henry Lo at Henry.Lo@lacity.org.
Selected youth and families will get more information in late May
EmpowerLA plans to host two virtual informational sessions in late May for selected youth applicants and their family members. These sessions will provide another chance to ask questions before the event.
Who to Contact With Questions
Questions about the 2026 EmpowerLA Youth Conference can be sent to the conference co-chairs:
Erica G. Doughty
Erica.Gatica@lacity.org
Ava Marinelli
Ava.Marinelli@lacity.org
More information is also available at:
https://empowerla.org/civicyouth/
Why This Event Matters
The 2026 EmpowerLA Youth Conference gives Los Angeles youth a real chance to see how civic engagement works at the local level. For students who care about their neighborhoods, public service, leadership, or community change, this event could be a strong first step.
With limited spots available, eligible youth should make sure to register before the April 24 deadline.
