2026 Summit · Let's do it again 2027
We did it.
Fearless 1X 2026
was a success.
Students took the stage, scholarships were awarded, and a room full of families, mentors, and partners witnessed it. Watch the recap, go behind the scenes with the Official LEAD U short doc — and get ready for Fearless 1X Summit 2027.
2026 Recap Film
Relive the Fearless 1X 2026 Summit.
Scholarship presentations, live performances, the career fair, and the moment students stepped into their voices — all in one film.
Official Short Doc
Behind LEAD U.
The official short documentary behind the LEAD U Institute — the mentors, the campuses, and the students whose lives changed on the way to the Fearless 1X stage.
Watch on YouTubeAbout the Event
Two days of media, leadership, arts, and scholarship.
The Fearless 1X Summit is a first-of-its-kind fusion of art, music, and leadership — a full day of scholarship presentations, career readiness, networking, and live performances where student scholars, filmmakers, dancers, speakers, and musicians share one stage with industry mentors.
The summit commissions future-ready leaders prepared to impact their communities and careers with courage and purpose — in front of a live audience of peers, families, and community.
Scholarship Presentations
Student scholars present their vision and receive commissioning awards.
Career Fair & Interviews
On-site interviews and networking with industry mentors and partners.
Live Performances
Student filmmakers, dancers, and musicians showcase their craft.
Fearless Talx
Keynotes and lightning talks from working creatives and leaders.
Fearless 1X Summit 2027
2027 registration opens March 1.
Fearless 1X Summit 2027 takes place July 29–30 in Virginia Beach. Student registration and showcase tickets go live on March 1, 2027. Join the interest list now and you'll be first in line.
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July 29–30, 2027
Two-day Summit & Showcase
Registration opens March 1, 2027
Free for students · showcase tickets available
March 1 waiting list
Get notified the minute registration opens.
Add your details below and we'll reach out first with student registration and showcase ticket links.
Become a Sponsor
Invest in the next generation.
Sponsorships fuel scholarships, leadership training, career development, and the live showcase. Choose the tier that fits — every dollar sends a student to the stage.
LEAD U Legacy Sponsor
$500+
Premier partnership: brand placement across the summit, showcase recognition, and legacy naming.
Become a Legacy SponsorLaunch Sponsor
$250
Support the summit at the Launch tier — program placement and showcase recognition.
Become a Launch SponsorStudent Sponsor
$50 – $250
Sponsor a student's seat, lunch, and family tickets to the showcase. Every $50 sends one student.
Sponsor a Student
Together, we build leaders. Together, we build the future.