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We will not be hosting a Youth Leadership summer session in 2020. Stay tuned for updates ahead of 2021.

The Initiative’s Youth Leadership Program aims to develop the next generation of North Carolina leaders through an intensive, innovative three-week summer program.

Check out the video below of the 10th Anniversary of this unique program:

Through forums in Raleigh, the program challenges rising high school seniors to hone their leadership, teamwork, and professional development skills. Interns gather twice during over three weeks in Raleigh to participate in forums designed to hone their leadership skills, including:

  • Conflict resolution
  • Financial literacy
  • Servant leadership principles
  • Personal branding and marketing
  • Ethics and personal values

During their time in Raleigh, the interns also participate in field trips to area businesses and other key state landmarks to introduce them to potential future career paths and to give them the opportunity to meet with innovative leaders at work.  The Initiative also introduces the students to the world of community economic development and provides a stipend for each young leader.

When I see these young people, and when I see the transformation that happens in them in a short period of time, it encourages me that transformation is possible for all of us.
-  Initiative CEO Tara Kenchen

For more information on this program, email grants@ncinitiative.org.