URGENT UPDATE: Twenty-eight high school students from across Georgia just graduated from the second cohort of Youth LEAD Georgia, a groundbreaking leadership program. The ceremony took place on November 10, 2025, at Trilith Studios in Fayetteville, marking a significant milestone in their journey of leadership and civic engagement.
This transformative program, facilitated by the University of Georgia’s J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development in partnership with Chick-fil-A, has empowered these young leaders to engage deeply with their communities. Over the past year, graduates participated in five major sessions, including four regional meetings and a weeklong bus tour that connected them with local business and community leaders.
Thanks to a generous $1.5 million pledge from Chick-fil-A, Youth LEAD Georgia is offered at no cost, making it accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. Among the standout graduates is Holden Walton from Valdosta, who showcased exceptional leadership throughout the program.
During the graduation, select students were awarded Bullard Community Champion grants, enabling them to implement service projects that address local needs. These grants, funded by Rodney Bullard, CEO of The Same House, and Regions Bank, support youth-led initiatives aimed at fostering community engagement and development.
The inspiring list of graduates includes:
– Mia Burnett (Sale City)
– Timothy Carter (Augusta)
– Victoria Alexis Clark (Smyrna)
– Ryan Clark (Albany)
– Brodie Combs (Grovetown)
– Paige Folette (Blackshear)
– Abigail Garland (Mansfield)
– Nathaniel Guidry (Athens)
– Kenwin Hayes (Lilburn)
– Zoe Hill (Between)
– and many more from across the state.
As these graduates step into their roles as community leaders, the impact of Youth LEAD Georgia continues to ripple throughout the state. Their projects promise to bring positive change and foster a spirit of service among Georgia’s youth.
Stay tuned for more updates on the initiatives and community projects launched by these inspiring young leaders. This is just the beginning of their journey!
