2026 Lorenzo de Zavala Youth Legislative Session

The LDZ is an eight‑day leadership program that simulates a high‑stakes legislative session. You work alongside motivated students from across the U.S. and Latin America, living on a college campus and learning how to create and manage large organizations. You practice public speaking, policy writing, constituency development and time management as you debate ideas and build consensus from morning to night. This immersive experience prepares you to lead in classrooms, clubs and communities.

Why LDZ stands out

You gain a network of friends and mentors who share your aspirations and push you to excel
You learn to build systems, mobilize people and influence decisions that shape entire communities
You develop self‑awareness and confidence through real‑world challenges that encourage personal growth
You enjoy the perks of campus life: dorm rooms, meals, college fairs, excursions and a staff‑to‑student ratio of 1:15
Completing LDZ grants you full NHI membership with access to future leadership programs, volunteer roles and faculty development opportunities

Why Join a 2026 LDZ Class
At its core, the LDZ game is not a civics lesson or designed to prepare future politicians. The LDZ is a leadership game for anyone who aspires to make a future impact in their community. The real reward comes from how LDZ changes you. By working with like‑minded peers from over 20 states and several Latin American nations, you redefine what leadership means. You learn to build systems, mobilize people and influence decisions that shape entire communities. The true benefit is in the mindset shift: you see yourself not just as a delegate, but as a change‑maker who takes ownership of your future. After eight days of focused teamwork, close collaboration, and hard‑earned breakthroughs, you come away with confidence, self‑awareness and a lifelong network of leaders who support your growth. That is why LDZ matters.

Take the Next Step and Apply Today
If you’re a college‑bound 10th or 11th grader ready to test your ideas and become a force for change, LDZ is made for you. Applications require a transcript/report card, a short list of your activities and a small fee; recommendations from an educator or community leader strengthen your candidacy. Share this link with a counselor or parent who wants to see you lead. Step forward. Apply today. Your LDZ story starts now.

Who should apply:

When you apply:

Submit the name of the NHIer, educator, or community member who nominated you to participate on the team.

Submit the $25 (U.S. currency) Application Fee

LDZ Tuition & Information

What Does Tuition Cover?

Eight days on a college campus in dorms
A full meal plan
Private access to training areas
An excursion in the city that the program is in
College Day exclusively for program participants
Staff-student ratio of 1:15
Supplies and materials
Commemorative program T-shirt
Certificate of participation
Highly motivating curriculum

NHI Membership

Students who complete the LDZ are granted full NHI membership — including access to future leadership programs, volunteer opportunities, and faculty development — as long as they remain in good standing.

2025 Tuition & Fees

Application Fee: $25 (non-refundable)
LDZ Deposit: $150 (non-refundable)
LDZ Tuition: $1150 (balance after deposit)

Payment & Support

Upon official acceptance, a $150 deposit secures your student’s spot. Families manage tuition in a variety of ways:

Payment plans
Sponsorships
Online fundraising
Offline fundraising
Community grants

NHI makes it a point to work with each family on their specific plans for tuition and can be reached at +1 (512) 357-6137 during normal office hours or admissions@nhimail.com. Resources for fundraising and requesting sponsorship can be found at https://www.nationalhispanicinstitute.org/fundraise

“Amazing people. Unforgettable. Life-changing. Nothing like it. My world of opportunities just expanded."

A Journey That Resonates.

The memories created during this journey will reverberate for a lifetime. The week concludes not only with the recognition of personal growth, but also with the discovery of a new family.

Discover New Horizons. Form Lifelong Bonds.

Students from all over the Americas come together to meet, work, and make strong friendships. Here, you'll meet new friends and together, you'll create something special that lasts. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity.

True Leadership.
Beyond Titles.

At the National Hispanic Institute, we think real leadership is more than just a title. It's about helping others, having great ideas, and celebrating everyone's success. The LDZ program helps you become this kind of leader.

Transform. Evolve.

Revolutionize

Step into the LDZ Experience and you'll step out redefined, with a potent blend of insight, confidence, and purpose. This is where you transition from hesitant potential to a powerful, heroic leader. This is where you reshape your destiny. We are NHI! Step Forward and Join Us!