Youth Leadership 2015 has concluded, and 21 Thomas County Central High School students have completed the program.

On Tuesday, Feb. 24, Youth Leadership graduation was held in the MacIntyre Park cafeteria. The dinner featured a southern cuisine meal, speeches by persons involved in the program, and the awarding of certificates.

“I spoke about the highlights of our journey through Youth Leadership,” TCCHS student spokesperson Katie Simmons said of her speech. “I concluded with giving a special thanks to all who made this experience possible.”

After the meal, graduates were presented their program completion certificate. In order to graduate, participants had to attend work sessions structured to help them become great leaders.

"The Leadership sessions taught me lessons that are not normally taught in classrooms," participant Jane Guo said. "It will prepare me to be a leader in the future."

Participant Ben Barwick, who said Leadership "was a great experience," recalled a lesson about money: when to use cash, when it's OK to take out a loan, and etc.

Students also took a trip to Atlanta to visit post-secondary institutions and meet state elected officials.

"It was a wonderful experience, and it taught me many valuable lessons to succeed in my future college and workplace," participant Justin Barfield said.

Simmons encouraged other students to consider being a part of the Youth Leadership program.

“I would tell others that this program is well worth their time, and that Leadership will develop their future leadership skills,” she said.

Youth Leadership is a program run through the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce. It educates area high school juniors about various aspects of civics and the professional world.

“Youth Leadership is a great opportunity for our juniors to receive some meaningful life skills and gain exposure to government and community affairs,” Dr. Jim Rehberg, TCCHS director of Honors, Gifted & Accelerated Instruction said. “It’s never too early for our future leaders to connect with decision makers while learning about finance, protocol, and conflict resolution.”