FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What are the requirements to attend the conference?
You must be a young woman between 14 to 19 years of age and complete the application by the deadline, which is usually one month prior the conference.

Why do I have to apply to attend?
Our exclusive guest list is about selecting deserving young women! Your GPA is not important to us; the application simply gives us insight to your student life, your community involvement and your future goals. We want to make sure you are interested in gaining knowledge from our dynamic speakers and have a genuine interest in attending the conference.

Is there any cost to me?
We do not charge teens to attend the conference. This is an event planned specifically to educate, entertain and empower YOU! Each conference is made possible thanks to our wonderful and generous sponsors. All we ask is that you share the information you receive with others, invite your friends to the conference and, of course, support our sponsors!

I have so much other stuff to do; can my mom (teacher, aunt, mentor, etc.) apply for me? 

No! While parents are asked to encourage their daughters to attend and to assist them with forming their thoughts for completing the application, having adults answer the application is highly frowned upon. As a teen, you are old enough to be responsible for your thoughts and actions. Plus, completing the YWEC application will be great practice for completing college applications and more. We reserve the right to disqualify any application that shows questionable adult influence.

Since we will learn about college and careers from adults, can my parent, (teacher, guardian, etc.) attend with me?
Adults who are not part of the program are only invited to the awards portion of the event at the end of the day. We understand a parent’s concern for allowing you to attend an event without them. However, this event is teen-focused and parents tend to be a distraction. We have found that teens ask questions and become truly engaged with their peers, versus being guarded and self-conscious when parents are around. We have received tremendous feedback from parents about how their daughters open up, gain more self-confidence and set better goals following the day-long conference. Trust us, your parent allowing you to experience this event on your own is worth it. In fact, they should get prepared for all the information you will share when it’s over! If parents insist on attending, however, there will be a $25 non-refundable, parent-sitting charge due upon arrival. Please note: Parents will remain in a designated area for the entire event, unless otherwise noted.

I don’t live in Birmingham. If I apply will I be considered for acceptance to the conference?
Yes. Since our first YWEC in 2009, we have had teens attend from Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, Pell City and other parts of Alabama, as well as other states! We even had one student apply from the continent of Africa! At this time, YWEC is based in Birmingham, AL. While we are growing, we have not yet started conferences in other cities, so we welcome students from other places to come to our great city. Of course, if you are accepted, the sole responsibility of transportation to and from the conference as well as lodging rests on you and your parents.

If I am accepted, what should I wear and what do I bring?
Dress professionally but comfortably - in a skirt and appropriate top, a dress, slacks, etc. Athletic shoes of any type are not allowed. Bring a pen and small writing pad to take notes as well as the names and contact information of the professionals and teens you meet. Take it a step further and impress the speakers and your peers with your own “business cards” to show that you came to win!

 
Are you providing transportation?
No, currently we do not have the means to provide transportation. Your parents or other adult is encouraged to provide transportation to the event. Or, if you know that a friend will attend, ask for a ride! Imagine the great conversations you will have together on the way to and from the conference!

Will I be able to speak one-on-one with the speakers? Can I ask for their information?

Yes and yes! The speakers are there to share their knowledge and experiences with you! They want to hear from you and provide guidance to you. They are approachable. Ask them lots of questions during the workshops! If you think a speaker would make a great mentor for your future career goals, ask about a shadow day or an internship! Get as much as you can out of this day! It is never too early to begin networking for your future.

Can I add the event to my resume?
You certainly can. Receiving an invitation to this conference is an honor. You should definitely add it to your resume! If you are one of our award recipients, it shows that you have exhibited outstanding leadership, and it should be listed on your resume and college applications. In fact, be super proud of yourself and announce it to your school, church and anywhere else that will allow.

What if I can't make it to the conference?
If you can’t attend, we ask that you not apply so that another deserving girl who can attend will have a spot. However, we do understand that things happen. If at the last minute you cannot make the conference, please email us at info@youngwomensempowermentconference.com or call the number on your invitation as soon as you know you will not attend. We appreciate the courtesy!

How can I suggest topics for future conferences?

We love to receive feedback from our attendees because we created the conference for you and we want you to get the most out of it! In fact, we have already incorporated some past requests. While we do our best to add new and different topics and careers each year, we want to know what you think! The best way to get your opinions heard is to complete the survey distributed to attendees at the end of the event. We really do read them and take your opinions into account for future events. If you forget to mention something, you can always email us at a later date.

It looks like the YWEC Ambassadors have so much fun as part of the conference. How can I become a member of the group?

The YWEC Ambassadors are chosen each July. Their eight-month term begins in August and ends in April. They are selected based on the following: their completed YWEC application, attendance at the conference, a completed survey at the end of the conference and an interview. While they are a big part of the conference, their positions are not all fun and games. Their monthly meetings might include a workshop, community service or a mingle event. The ambassadors are also required to promote the conference at different events and invite a certain number of teens to apply for the upcoming conference.