Teen Leadership Training Program

Empowering Teens to build confidence as Leaders

Gaia Guides’ Teen Leadership Training in Alameda is designed for motivated teens ages 13–16 who are ready to step up, take initiative, and build real-world leadership skills. Over three inspiring days, participants learn teamwork, communication, risk management, and problem-solving through hands-on adventure activities both on and off the water. The program also includes CPR and First Aid certification

Registration Opens January 2026

Dates will be announced in January 2026. The program takes place over one weekend in April, giving teens a hands-on learning experience.

Days: Friday - Sunday

The program is on Friday 4:00pm - 7:30pm and Saturday–Sunday 9:00am – 4:00pm, combining skills building and CPR/First Aid Certification

Time: 5:30pm - 8pm

Designed for teens ready to step up as leaders. Once they complete the program, they can apply for our internship program.

Ages: Teens Age 13 - 16

Held at Ballena Bay Marina in Alameda, CA, perfect for paddling, learning, and leadership adventures on the San Francisco Bay.

Location: Alameda, CA

Includes all paddling equipment, professional instruction, and CPR & First Aid certification. Provides teens with valuable real-world skills.

Price: $499 Including Certification

Teens earn CPR and First Aid certification as part of the program, learning emergency response skills and confidence that prepare them for future situations.

Certification: CPR and First Aid

Registration Opens January 2026

What skills will my child learn during the Leadership Training Program?

The program covers a wide range of essential skills, including:

Coaching and Managing Groups: Trainees will learn how to coach and lead individuals or groups of all ages both on and off the water.
Risk Management and Emergency Response: Participants will understand the importance of risk management and how to handle emergency or medical situations effectively.
Customer Service: Your child will develop fundamental customer service skills, which are invaluable in any job setting.
CPR and First Aid Certification: Trainees will earn a Red Cross certification in CPR and First Aid, equipping them with the skills to handle medical emergencies.

Through scenario-based activities and hands-on practice, your child will grow their confidence and leadership abilities while having fun in a supportive environment.

Why is the Leadership Training Program valuable for my child’s future?

The program offers a unique blend of enjoyable activities and professional development opportunities. Here’s how it benefits your child:

Resume Building: The experience gained provides a noteworthy addition to their resumes.
Career Readiness: It prepares participants for real-world responsibilities and jobs in industries like outdoor adventure, summer camps, retail, and hospitality.
Self-Confidence: Engaging in leadership scenarios boosts their confidence to tackle future challenges, from job applications to workforce entry.

What happens after completing the Leadership Training Program?

Graduates of the Leadership Training Program become eligible to apply for our summer-long Internship Program. This extended opportunity allows participants to:

Gain additional hands-on experience.
Enhance their skills through real-life job scenarios.
Receive continuous support and open communication to help them grow.

The internship acts as a bridge between the training and actual job readiness, solidifying the skills they’ve learned and boosting their overall confidence.

Registration Opens January 2026

Quick Family Night FAQs

This 3-day weekend program in Alameda is designed for teens ages 13–16 who are ready to step into leadership roles, build confidence, and strengthen teamwork and communication skills. Through paddling adventures, group challenges, and hands-on projects, participants develop problem-solving abilities and real-world leadership experience in a fun, supportive environment.
While we recommend that teens complete at least one week of our Kids Camp first, it’s not required. Please contact us to discuss whether this program is the right fit for your teen.
Drive to Ballena Bay Marina, 1138 Ballena Blvd, Alameda. Drive past the flagpole and look for the tennis courts and parking lot on the left.
This picturesque paddling location offers:
Calm Lagoon for Practice: A protected area ideal for beginners to learn and play.
Access to San Francisco Bay: Just around the corner, participants can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline, adding an adventurous element to their experience.
Gaia Guides provides everything you need for a safe and enjoyable adventure:
- Paddleboards (with fin and leash).
- Paddles and personal flotation devices (PFDs),
- Skilled instructors dedicated to creating a memorable and safe experience.
Dress in layers Alameda can be sunny, breezy, or foggy. Avoid cotton; choose quick-dry fabrics. Bring extra warm layers or a dry change of clothes.
Each day includes a mix of leadership workshops, hands-on paddling lessons, and teamwork challenges. Teens learn how to communicate effectively, plan adventures, manage safety, and support others.
Teens develop confidence, leadership, and group management skills while learning paddling technique, adventure planning, and environmental awareness. The program also covers how to handle real-world situations calmly and responsibly.
To empower teens to become capable leaders both on and off the water. Many graduates go on to apply for Gaia Guides Camp Internships and continue developing their skills within our community.
The Gaia Guides Summer Internship is a 15-day program for teens ages 13+ who’ve completed our Leadership Training. Interns gain hands-on experience in coaching, teamwork, and customer service while assisting at our summer camps. Completion of Leadership Training is required to apply, but positions are limited and not guaranteed.

Read Our FAQs Page

Teen Internship Program

The Gaia Guides Teen Summer Internship is an exciting next step for teens ages 13+ who’ve completed our Leadership Training. Over 20 days, interns join our camp instructor team to gain real-world experience leading activities, mentoring younger campers, and supporting daily operations. It’s a unique chance for motivated teens to build confidence, leadership, and job-ready skills—all while spending the summer outdoors doing what they love. Completion of Leadership Training is required to apply; spots are limited and not guaranteed.

June 8- August 14