The Virginia Allan Young Careerist Program (YC) was founded in 1964 by BPW National President Virginia Allan in order to recognize the professional, personal and political achievements of young professional women and men.
Participants, both BPW and prospective members, compete to represent BPW on the Local and State level by delivering a prepared 4-minute speech, interviewing with judges, and preparing a biographical statement and application.
BPW/FL has a long list of former Young Careerist participants and representatives who, by their participation, have developed a greater sense of self-esteem, and have gone on to more rewarding and fulfilling careers and have demonstrated themselves as outstanding leaders in their communities.
This program recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of young women between the ages of 21 and 35 for their endeavors at bettering themselves and others, professionally, personally and politically. The Young Careerist Program is about mentoring and building self-esteem and confidence. It is about giving recognition and acceptance and the celebration to all participants.
To be eligible, a person must:
Be between the ages of 21 and 35, inclusive, by July 31st following the first competition in which she/he participates;
Be or have been employed in business or the professions with at least one (1) year of full-time work experience;
Be living, working, training or continuing their education in the area served by the sponsoring LO conducting the program; and
Sign the state legislative platform agreement. A Young Careerist candidate must review the BPW/FL legislative platform and pledge that she/he will not speak against platform items in her/his capacity as Young Careerist Representative, if selected.