Nominations for the next cohort of Youth LEAD Georgia are now open. Teachers, counselors, youth group leaders, and employers are encouraged to nominate young people for the program. The nomination deadline is Sept. 1, 2024. Once a student is nominated, they will have until Sept. 30 to complete their application. You can nominate a student online here.
Once a student is nominated for Youth LEAD Georgia, the student and their parent/guardian will receive a link to fill out the application within 3 business days after the nomination is submitted.
Recruitment Criteria:
- Rising 10th and 11th grade students with leadership potential
- School attendance records indicate academic commitment
- Demonstrates motivation through personal behavior, desire and determination
- Interest or desire to learn about leadership
- Willingness to engage in new and different experiences
There is no cost for student participants. Meals, transportation for tours and program activities, and program materials are available through generous donations from Chick-fil-A. Students will be required to arrange transportation to the sessions.
Those selected for the 2025 Youth LEAD Georgia class will be expected to attend all sessions, which are scheduled for the following dates and locations:
- Jan. 25-27, 2025; Athens, Ga.
- Mar. 16-17, 2025; Cartersville, Ga.
- June 3-6, 2025; Bus Tour
- Sept. 14-15, 2025; Columbus, Ga.
- Nov. 9-10, 2025; Atlanta, Ga.
In addition, Youth LEAD Georgia participants will be invited to participate in the youth leadership summit at UGA on July 17-18, 2025.
Youth LEAD Georgia, facilitated by faculty from the UGA J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development in partnership with Chick-fil-A and The Same House, started its inaugural class in January 2024. Kailyn King, daughter of Kelcey and Akilah King of Statesboro and a student at Portal Middle High School, was part of the inaugural class.
The program is designed to equip youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to be the future leaders of our state. Youth LEAD Georgia graduates will put their skills and knowledge into action and work together to tackle the challenges that impact Georgia’s future vitality. Learn more here.
