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LaFayette Main Street’s second Youth Leadership Program is set to begin June 25. Leadership-minded students from around the city will meet at the LaFayette Main Street office at 5:30 p.m. CT. 

“LaFayette Main Street really wanted to take the time to empower our leaders and future leaders for our town and our community,” said DeAnna Hand, Director of LaFayette Main Street.

“It’s really an opportunity for the younger generation to make a difference, to teach them skills and career paths, and hopefully spark an interest in youth entrepreneurship,” she added. 

The quarterly program began in April, and 15 students participated. 

Hand gave thanks to Organization Committee Chair Ansley Emfinger and Ciara Hornsby, the Chambers Academy Ambassador, for their help in organizing the program. The students will be 9-12 graders from Chambers Academy and LaFayette High School.

Hand said that they had guest speakers from the community including many local entrepreneurs. 

“In April, we had some coaching and education on different careers that they might explore,” Hand said. 

They explored opportunities from joining the workforce to choosing a college pathway to starting their own business. 

“We’re excited about it,” Hand added. “It’s very encouraging to see their motivation and passion for the town of LaFayette and all the great things that they’re doing to make a difference.”

This month, Danielle Jordon from The Back Porch Salon is coming to talk to the new group about her business. Jordon will talk about her story of becoming an entrepreneur, share her advice on building leadership skills and and owning a business. 

Hand said she also plans to have the students attend local city council meetings and Chambers County Commission meetings to learn about local government, policies and advocating for their community. 

“We want them to have that professional development but also that sense of volunteerism — how to give back to the community and how to advocate to make a difference in their town of Lafayette,” Hand said.