Annual Events
Through a series of well-orchestrated events, ILF Colorado Youth Leadership Association (ICYLA) brings Colorado youth together to create unique opportunities and values for the communities.
National Annual Awards and Scholarship Gala
Each year, the ILF holds a global awards ceremony in Washington D.C. to recognize outstanding members in the APA community who have provided outstanding services to their communities. Awards are given to winners of different categories through rigorous judging processes.
Youth Leadership Retreat
Cultivate youth servant leadership. Promote civic awareness, public engagement, and entrepreneurial spirit. ICYLA hosts workshops, organizes field trips, and collaborate with corporate and political leaders for professional immersive experiences for motivated youth leaders.
AANHPI Heritage Celebration
Celebrate the AANHPI heritage. Enrich the multi-cultural community. ICYLA observes the Asian Heritage Month of May by commemorating Asian merits and contributing to the vibrant American society.
Youth Leadership Award Ceremony
Envision new prospects and opportunities by celebrating past accomplishments. ICYLA devotes a special occasion to recognize youth leaders’ efforts and impacts and to draft more services for more positive impacts.
Dragon Boat Festival
The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival returns to Denver’s Sloan’s Lake Park for its 26th year, celebrating Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) heritage, culture, and community.
ILF Colorado Youth Leadership Association (ICYLA) will have an active presence at the festival, hosting youth-focused activities and an outreach booth. Dedicated to empowering emerging AANHPI leaders through civic engagement and service, these student leaders will highlight local youth projects and foster community connection.
Aug 29th and 30th 2026
Sloans lake Park, Denver Colorado
2026 Annual Awards and Scholarship Gala
This year marks the 26th anniversary of the ILF’s Leadership Awards. Over the years, various heads of government have presented these honors at the ILF’s annual gala. These distinguished awardees serve as role models for the next generation, demonstrating how Asian Pacific American (APA) leaders thrive in mainstream society.
July 22nd – 24th, 2026
Capital Hilton, DC
Path to D1 Technique
Opportunity to be coached by former Olympian Michael Zhan. Coach Zhan competed in the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea in the event Men’s 200m Butterfly, and has extensive teaching experience. As the coach of the Brazil National Team from 2011-2017, he has instructed swimmers at the 2017 FINA World Cup. Coach Zhan’s focus is on honing technique for young athletes and fostering a love for swimming to be carried to the D1 level.
10:00～11:00 AM, 5/16/2026
8085 S Chester St, Centennial, CO 80112.
Past Events
Explore highlights from our previous programs and activities. Click each title to learn more.
Outstanding Youth Leadership Award Ceremony
Join us for the annual Outstanding Youth Leadership Award Ceremony on November 16, 2025! Exceptional youth leaders will be awarded for their dedications and contributions to the community.
This workshop is incredibly immersive — it guides AANHPI young people to explore themselves, reflect inwardly, find clarity in their direction, build confidence, and learn how to become more empowered.
2:00～3:00PM, 10/26/2025
RM 9450， Rock Canyon High School, 5810 McArthur Ranch Rd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80124