Young Ladies Radio League (YLRL): Empowering Women in Amateur Radio

Young Ladies Radio League (YLRL): Empowering Women in Amateur Radio

The Young Ladies Radio League (YLRL) is a prominent organization dedicated to encouraging and supporting women in amateur radio. Since its inception in 1940, YLRL has been committed to providing a platform for women to thrive in the amateur radio community. The league offers a variety of programs, events, and resources that foster growth, learning, and community-building among its members.


Mission and Activities

YLRL's mission is to inspire women to get involved in amateur radio, offering opportunities to develop their skills, pursue certificates and awards, and engage in contests and operating events. Through these activities, members gain both technical knowledge and a sense of community.

The league is involved in various aspects of amateur radio:

  • Contests & Operating Events: YLRL members actively participate in radio contests and operating events, helping to build their expertise and connect with other radio operators worldwide.
  • Mentorship: The league has a strong focus on mentoring new amateurs and supporting those working on new operating modes. Mentorship helps to empower new members and ensures the sustainability of the hobby.
  • HF & VHF-UHF Nets: YLRL operates several HF nets and supports YL nets on VHF-UHF and Echolink, providing a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and communicate with each other.
  • Scholarships: Every year, YLRL offers three scholarships through the Foundation of Amateur Radio (FAR) to assist young women in college who are pursuing an education in amateur radio or related fields.
  • Conventions & Hamfests: The YLRL organizes conventions every 3-4 years, bringing members together for in-person meetings, and also attends hamfests and conventions to represent the league and connect with the broader amateur radio community.
  • Bimonthly Newsletter: The club publishes a newsletter called YL Harmonics, which is available online to members. The newsletter shares updates on member activities, league business, and other amateur radio-related topics. Past issues are available to non-members as well.

Club Details

  • Call Sign: K4LMB
  • Affiliation Date: June 1, 1940
  • Club Website: www.ylrl.net
  • Meeting Time: Board meetings held two times a year; regular interactions at conventions, hamfests, and via Zoom meetings.
  • Specialties: Contest, Digital Modes, DX, General Interest, Public Service/Emergency, School or Youth Group, VHF/UHF
  • Services Offered: Club Newsletter, Mentorship

Leadership Team

The Young Ladies Radio League is led by an experienced and dedicated group of officers:

  • President: Vicki M. Zumwalt (N6KLS)
  • Treasurer: Judy Cox (KC5BOO)
  • Secretary: Anne Manna (WB1ARU)
  • Vice President: Diane P. Ortiz (K2DO)
  • Editor: Deanna S. Lutz (K9DID)

These officers work together to ensure the continued success of YLRL, providing resources and leadership for the league’s members and initiatives.


Get Involved

The Young Ladies Radio League is open to all women interested in amateur radio. Whether you're a seasoned operator or a newcomer, YLRL provides a welcoming environment to develop your skills and connect with other women in the community.

To learn more about membership, scholarships, or upcoming events, visit their website:


Community Impact

The Young Ladies Radio League has played a significant role in breaking down barriers for women in amateur radio. By providing support, networking opportunities, and educational resources, YLRL continues to empower women to succeed in this technical and creative field. The league's focus on mentorship, scholarships, and community events ensures that young women and new amateurs are given the tools to excel, helping to shape the future of amateur radio.

With a strong commitment to supporting women and fostering growth in the amateur radio community, YLRL is a vital part of the amateur radio landscape and continues to inspire and connect women worldwide.

Reading next

Exploring the West Chester Amateur Radio Association (WCARA)
Fulton County Amateur Radio Club (FCARC): Bridging Communication in Ohio

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