This program honors Virginia Allan, a member of the Wyandotte BPW, who served as National President in 1963.  She recognized the need to recruit young members. Toward that goal, the Young Careerist Program honors young women and introduces them to mature workingwomen while providing them an opportunity for personal and career growth.
Women ages 21 to 35 who have been working for a minimum of one year are eligible to participate in local and state competitions. These include an interview and a judged, timed public speech on their choice of pre-selected topics. 
The Virginia Allan/Young Careerist Program includes the following:

• Introduction to BPW structure and history. 
• Mentoring opportunities with current members.
• Development of speech and presentation skills.
• Instruction about planning and conducting meetings.
• Development of negotiating and interviewing skills.
• Recognition of personal, educational and career goals and achievements.
• Development of organization and leadership qualities.

Applications must be submitted by the posted deadlines.  State contestants must be BPW members; many Clubs offer BPW membership to participants.  Members may participate until they reach age 35.

2009 YC Honorees