2026 Youth Leadership Development Workshop

"Your network is your net worth"

The 2026 Youth Leadership Development Workshop (YLDW) brought together 172 participants, including 149 students and 23 non-students, for a powerful day of leadership development, skill-building, and community engagement. Students from across the region—including strong representation from Van Horn High School, Lee’s Summit North, Lee’s Summit High School, and Raytown High School—participated in an experience designed to empower the next generation of leaders.

Program Experience & Sessions

The workshop delivered a diverse and engaging lineup of sessions focused on practical leadership skills and real-world application. Participants engaged in:

  • Financial Literacy (“Money Talks”) led by Angelique Cheatem, focused on building financial awareness and decision-making skills 

  • Entrepreneurship led by Chris Madden, emphasizing innovation, business leadership, and economic empowerment 

  • Higher Education & College Pathways presented by Amber Buck, helping students explore academic and career opportunities 

  • Professional Networking facilitated by Terrence Frazier, teaching students how to build meaningful connections and career networks

The program also featured youth-led and peer-driven learning opportunities, reinforcing the importance of student voice and engagement throughout the day.

Keynote & Featured speakers

The workshop was highlighted by impactful speakers who inspired and connected with participants through real-life experiences:

  • Keynote Speaker: Elijah Dormeus, founder of the I AM Foundation, who shared a powerful message focused on purpose, mental wellness, and overcoming adversity

  • Speaker: Chamberlain Webster, student leader and Miss North Kansas City’s Teen 2026, who emphasized confidence, leadership, and self-expression 

These speakers played a critical role in motivating students to embrace leadership and pursue their goals with confidence.

Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Leadership

A key component of YLDW is the development of youth leaders through the Youth Advisory Council (YAC). The 2026 YAC leadership team played an active role in supporting the workshop and continuing leadership efforts beyond the event. This youth-led structure reinforces YLDW’s commitment to developing leadership not just in a single event, but through ongoing engagement and peer-driven initiatives.

YAC Executive Team

  • President: Briana Edwards – Prudence Academy

  • Vice President: Paiton Hughley – Lee’s Summit North

  • Secretary: Averie Neel – Staley High School

  • Assistant Secretary: Kalvary Riley – St. Teresa’s Academy

  • Timekeeper: Ariana Edwards – Prudence Academy

  • Sergeant of Arms: Garrett Webster – Park Hill

Social Media & Engagement Team

  • Tre’On Hamp – Allen Village

  • Leah Denson – Allen Village

  • Leeyah James – Central High School

  • Skylar Watson – Lee’s Summit

  • Jaylen Hughley – Lee’s Summit North

  • Carter Lewis – Staley High School

  • Eli Riley – Lafayette Academy

black achievers mentors

  • Arlana J. Coleman—A Joy Event Planning, LLC

  • Heather Rollins—Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska

  • C.J. Warrick—Honeywell FM&T (retired)

  • Terrance Frazier—Raytown South High School

  • Khara Hughley—Educator

Overall Impact

The 2026 YLDW delivered a highly engaging and impactful experience, with participants reporting increased confidence, improved leadership skills, and a stronger understanding of how to apply those skills in real-world settings.

Students consistently highlighted:

  • Interactive sessions and hands-on learning

  • Opportunities to build meaningful connections

  • Inspiration from relatable speakers and peers

Participants left with not only enhanced leadership capabilities, but also a renewed motivation to make a difference in their schools and communities.

looking ahead

The continued success of YLDW reflects its growing role as a cornerstone program for youth development in the region. Through ongoing initiatives like the Youth Advisory Council, the program will continue to expand opportunities for youth leadership, amplify student voices, and strengthen community impact.

special thanks

Special thanks to our program partners whose contributions helped make the 2026 Youth Leadership Development Workshop a success:

  • Tina Cozart, Founder and Owner of Beyond Compare Designs, for serving as our Program Printing Sponsor

  • T.D. Edwards for providing event photography, capturing key moments from the workshop

  • Custom Tees, our official t-shirt printing partner, for delivering high-quality apparel for participants