A circular graphic with the words 'KIND LEADERSHIP' around the edges and an illustration of five people, with one in the center raising a fist, symbolizing leadership and unity.

Kind Leadership

Turn Your Passion Into Meaningful Community Impact!

Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 program

What is Kind Leadership?

Kind Leadership is a mission-driven experience for high school students who are ready to grow into thoughtful, capable changemakers.

With mentorship, practical leadership training, and a supportive community, each student builds an original Passion Project from the ground up—turning an idea they care about into meaningful action.

Each Year, 25 students are selected in these service regions:

  • Austin, Texas

  • Bay Area, California

  • Los Angeles, California

Don’t see your region?

Help us explore bringing Kind Leadership to your community. Click HERE to request Kind Leadership in your area!

From Passion Projects to Powerful Opportunities

Build Skills That Matter in College, Leadership, and Life

Kind Leaders have leveraged their Passion Projects and program experiences in powerful ways—from strengthening college applications and earning acceptance to leading universities to speaking on stages at TEDx and SXSW and collaborating with Fortune 500 companies.

Through Kind Leadership, students learn to:

  • Communicate ideas clearly and confidently

  • Think creatively and solve real-world problems

  • Take initiative and turn ideas into action

  • Collaborate effectively with peers and mentors

  • Apply an entrepreneurial mindset to causes they care about

  • Build meaningful relationships and professional networks

At the Kind Leadership Summit, students present their Passion Projects to a live audience and a panel of judges. Along the way, they build powerful stories of leadership, perseverance, initiative, and impact they can carry into college applications, interviews, internships, and future opportunities.

Are You Ready to Be a Kind Leader?

Students may begin Kind Leadership in any year of high school. Complete the application, and a member of the TKC team will reach out with the registration and payment link and next steps for program access. We’re excited to learn more about each student’s interests, goals, and desire to make a positive difference.

New to the Kind Leadership program?

Apply Here

Already a member of the Kind Leadership program?

Click Here to Sign Up for 2026-2027

2025-2026 Kind Leader Summit Winners