UPDATE: In an inspiring celebration, 28 high school students from across Georgia graduated from the second cohort of Youth LEAD Georgia today, marking a significant milestone in leadership development. The graduation ceremony, held on November 10 at Trilith Studios in Fayetteville, showcased a year of hard work and dedication in civic engagement and experiential learning.
Among the graduates is Holden Walton from Valdosta, who, alongside his peers, participated in a rigorous program that included five sessions, a weeklong bus tour, and a summer summit uniting over 150 youth from around the state. This program, facilitated by the University of Georgia’s J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development in partnership with Chick-fil-A, emphasizes accessibility for all students, thanks to a generous $1.5 million pledge from Chick-fil-A.
The Youth LEAD Georgia program has proven transformative, engaging students in leadership sessions while fostering connections with local business and community leaders. The graduates hail from 28 counties across the state, including notable names like Mia Burnett from Sale City, Timothy Carter from Augusta, and Victoria Alexis Clark from Smyrna.
At the conclusion of this impactful program, select students were awarded the Bullard Community Champion grants, which empower them to implement local service projects. Funded by Rodney Bullard, CEO of The Same House, and Regions Bank, these grants support youth-led initiatives that address specific community needs. Holden Walton was among the nine recipients, reflecting the program’s commitment to fostering real-world impact.
This graduation not only celebrates the achievements of these young leaders but also underscores the importance of accessible leadership training for youth in Georgia. As they embark on their next steps, the community anticipates the positive changes these graduates will bring to their respective areas.
The Youth LEAD Georgia program continues to represent a bright future for leadership in the state, and the impact of these young leaders will resonate for years to come. Stay tuned for more updates on their initiatives and future endeavors.
