Youth Leadership Tallahassee
This ten-month program is an extension of the main Leadership Tallahassee program for adults, bringing together a diverse group of high school juniors from public & private schools across the Tallahassee region who have demonstrated leadership potential in formal & informal situations, and preparing them to become ethical leaders committed to active community involvement.
About the Program
Students attend a series of sessions offered between July & April, including an Opening Retreat, seven program days, graduation, the completion of a class project, and an opportunity to serve on a community organization’s Board of Directors.
The two-day Opening Retreat focuses on team-building & defining leadership. Students have an opportunity to explore a personal philosophy of leading and leadership. Interaction with classmates at the retreat & throughout the year helps to foster life-long bonds & build networking skills.
The seven program days focus on various topics, industries, and issues in the greater Tallahassee area. Held on school days from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, class members will meet at a central location in the community to begin the day’s experience.
For example, a typical day on business and finance might include:
- A panel discussion about entrepreneurship made up of young entrepreneurs & moderated by a top local business leader
- Site tours of businesses in our community with local & international impact including presentations by their CEOs
- A leadership skill-building exercise on interviewing techniques or goal setting
- A class team-building activity focusing on developing a business to present to a “shark tank” panel of local business people
How to Apply
We encourage interested student applicants and supportive parent/family members to learn more about YLT and the application process before submitting an application.
Current Class & Past Graduates
One of the best ways to learn about what to expect from YLT and what the program expects from you is to talk to YLT Alumni and current class members. Click here for a list of the current class (YLT 22; 2025-2026) and check out our impressive YLT Alumni.