Staff participation helped connect 16 area students with disability history, advocacy resources and mentors from across Kansas
HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Beyond Barriers recently supported the participation of 16 local high school students with disabilities at the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum, a statewide program of the Kansas Youth Empowerment Academy.
The 2026 forum was held July 13–18 at Washburn University in Topeka. Beyond Barriers sent Employment Specialist Anthony Frischenmeyer to help chaperone the students and support them throughout the weeklong leadership experience.
The Kansas Youth Empowerment Academy, commonly known as KYEA, provides education, mentoring and leadership opportunities for young Kansans with disabilities. Through programs such as the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum, the organization helps youth strengthen their self-advocacy skills, learn about available resources and build relationships with peers and adult role models.
For Beyond Barriers, participating in the forum was an opportunity to support local students while contributing to a larger statewide network committed to disability leadership, inclusion and independence.
“I just witnessed 16 youths learn disability history and heritage,” Frischenmeyer said. “Most did not know they are a part of this amazing, diverse and accepting community called the disability community. By the end, you could see the disability pride grow in them — all during Disability Pride Month. It truly is amazing to see the transformations.”
During the forum, students lived on a college campus and participated in sessions focused on leadership, disability history, advocacy, assertiveness, goal setting and career planning. They also learned about organizations, services and technologies that can help them pursue their education, employment and independent living goals.
The program connects delegates with successful adults with disabilities who can share their personal and professional experiences. During a mentor luncheon, students are paired with adult mentors, often based on shared career interests or connections to the student’s home community.
Additional activities include a legislative experience in the Kansas State Capitol Senate Chamber, adaptive recreation, a resource fair, a “Real Life Affair” focused on navigating adult responsibilities, a talent show, a dance and a graduation ceremony.
“Supporting Anthony’s participation allowed Beyond Barriers to help local students connect with opportunities and relationships that extend well beyond the week of the forum,” said Erica Rivera, Executive Director of Beyond Barriers. “These young people returned home with new skills, new friendships and a stronger understanding of the disability community they are part of.”
Kansas held its first Youth Leadership Forum in 2001 after representatives from several agencies spent approximately three years developing the program. KYEA has continued to produce the forum as an annual opportunity for students with disabilities to learn from one another and from adults who are active in their careers and communities.
The Kansas Youth Leadership Forum is open to Kansas high school juniors and seniors with disabilities, as well as students participating in 18–21 transition programs. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential or an interest in becoming more involved in their schools and communities.
Delegates are selected through an application and interview process designed to create a group representing different regions, experiences and types of disabilities. Former delegates may also return as volunteers after graduation, giving alumni an opportunity to mentor and encourage future participants.
There is no cost for delegates or volunteers to attend the forum. KYEA covers lodging, meals and necessary accommodations, including interpreters and personal care assistance when needed. Transportation support may also be arranged so that a student’s financial circumstances do not prevent participation.
By supporting staff and local youth participation in the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum, Beyond Barriers is helping young people with disabilities recognize their strengths, develop their voices and become more connected to a statewide community of advocates and leaders.
About Beyond Barriers
Beyond Barriers promotes independence, inclusion and opportunity for individuals with disabilities across 60 Kansas counties. The organization provides employment, independent living and other support services that help individuals pursue their personal, professional and community goals.
