EMERGING LEADERS
EMERGING LEADERS (AGES 15-18)
The Chamber’s Emerging Leaders Program is designed provide high school students the opportunity to learn about and develop leadership skills before they enter the workforce. This program focuses on leadership qualities, styles, and theories. Students will learn about public speaking, problem solving, team collaboration, decision-making, community service, and more. The program runs on year long tracks from September – June and educated students on the private sector (year 1) and public sector (year 2). Any high school students from districts 91, 93, 60, and 251 are eligible to apply.
What participants can expect:
- Twice-monthly meeting scheduled as after-school educational programs or full-day excursions/service projects on weekends or school breaks
- Working together with peers to create and execute a fundraiser and service project
- Interacting with local business leaders, government officials, and other community members
- Qualification toward school credit
- Completing activities that include workshops, guest speaker events, group projects, community service initiatives, and field trips to local businesses and government offices
- A week-long excursion to Florida (year 1) or Washington D.C. (year 2)
- Upon completion, students receive a certificate in leadership and a personal letter of recommendation from the Chamber CEO
WHY JOIN EMERGING LEADERS?
- Civic Engagement: Teaching students leadership skills early encourages them to take an active role in their community, leading to a more engage and responsible community
- Critical Thinking: Leadership programs help student develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing them to tackle complex challenges both locally and globally
- Creating Role Models: Identifying and nurturing young leaders creates individuals that embody a culture of responsibility that spread through their peers
- Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: We aim to include students from various backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged
- Build Future Leaders: Investing in leadership development in students ensures that the next generation will be well-prepared to take on leadership roles in the future
- Enhance Academic Achievement: Time management, communication, teamwork, and other subject taught in this program translate into better academic performance, helping students excel in school and beyond
- Address Community Issues: Emerging leaders are empowered to identify and address pressing issues in their communities, driving positive change and creating innovative solutions
- Strengthen Social Skills: Through leadership programs, students develop strong interpersonal skills, such as empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution, all of which are essential for effective teamwork and collaboration
- Prepare for Career Success: We teach Emerging Leaders to take initiative, be resilient, and adaptable, giving students a competitive edge in their future careers
- Cultivate a Sense of Purpose: Students can discover their passions and strengths through leadership activities, helping them find a sense of purpose and direction
