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Frequently Asked Questions:

To participate in the 2024 NextGen Leadership Program, you must:

  • Be either a current undergraduate, graduate, or law student (enrolled and actively attending classes) or a recent graduate (no earlier than 2022) of an accredited North American or South American college or university.
  • Self-identify as an individual with any type of disability.
  • Individuals that are not U.S. citizens are invited to participate in this program if you meet all 3 of the following criteria:
    • Located in North or South America.
    • Possess all proper and necessary work authorization documents for work in the United States and/or your desired country of employment.
    • Fluent in both verbal and written English for the purposes of general business correspondence and communication with your mentor.

  • What are the benefits in participating in the NextGen Leadership Program?
    • Throughout the program, you’ll gain access to recruiters and leaders from Disability:IN corporate partners as well as NextGen Leaders to expand your network. You’ll learn how to use your disability as an asset in the corporate world. Overall, our program is a great opportunity to enhance your professional development skills and to gain personalized guidance in your industry.
  • Will I get a job by participating in the NextGen Leadership Program?
    • Potentially! The primary purpose of our initiative is to strengthen students’ professional skills and expand their network into the private sector.  Some of the Disability:IN corporate partners host career mentoring days, job shadowing, and interviews just for NextGen Leaders. NextGen Leaders have had an average employment rate of 86%.
  • Will I be able to connect to other students with disabilities in this program?
    • Yes. We conduct virtual events and meetings so that all student participants can connect. You’ll also have opportunities to get to know each other through discussions led by NextGen Leadership staff.

  • Do I have to have a disability to participate in the NextGen Leadership program?
    • Yes.
  • How long is the NextGen Leadership Program?
    • The NextGen Leadership Program includes a six-month virtual mentorship with a Disability:IN corporate partner and will run from March 2024 – September 2024.
  • What is the expected time commitment for Leaders?
    • The expected time commitment is approximately 4 to 6 hours per month including mentorship, webinar participation, and group discussions.
  • What does it cost to participate?
    • NOTHING! Your time, attention, commitment, and enthusiasm are all that’s needed.
  • Where can I get an accessible PDF about the Initiatives?

  • Can I stay in contact with my mentor after the program ends?
    • Yes. Many of our NextGen Leaders have continued to stay in touch with their mentors after the program ends. We also encourage you to engage with the Disability:IN team as alumni.
  • If I already have a mentor, should I still participate in the NextGen Leadership Program?
    • Yes. It is beneficial to have multiple mentors throughout your career, and our program can connect you with a mentor who has knowledge about working in the private sector.
Alan S headshot

Alan S.

“Overall great program that changed my perspective on what is available for a person with a disability. Learning about how companies are becoming inclusive was important. Helped me with confidence and ability to advocate for myself in the future.”

Esau at the 2022 Disability:IN Conference

Esau L.

“I can’t say thank you enough to Disability:IN for creating an invaluable experience for people who are often overlooked by providing mentorship, employment training, and employment opportunities. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”