Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Celebrates Youth Leadership Inaugural Class
In light of the inaugural class of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Youth Leadership Institute (YLI), 18 young boys and girls were recognized for their dedication and achievements in the program. Upholding their motto, “By Culture and By Merit,” the women of AKA introduced the newest class of their Youth Leadership Institute, aiming to mentor young boys and girls into becoming productive citizens and future leaders. On the morning of June 2nd, amidst a gathering of family, supportive community members, and elected officials, the Seven Oaks Country Club at 2000 Grand Lakes Avenue was illuminated by the achievements of the Youth Leadership Institute’s inaugural class.
By Jason Land, Jr. | Contributing Writer
In light of the inaugural class of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Youth Leadership Institute (YLI), 18 young boys and girls were recognized for their dedication and achievements in the program. Upholding their motto, “By Culture and By Merit,” the women of AKA introduced the newest class of their Youth Leadership Institute, aiming to mentor young boys and girls into becoming productive citizens and future leaders. On the morning of June 2nd, amidst a gathering of family, supportive community members, and elected officials, the Seven Oaks Country Club at 2000 Grand Lakes Avenue was illuminated by the achievements of the Youth Leadership Institute’s inaugural class.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s commitment to improving the community of African Americans and people of color has remained steady and strong, driving their ongoing pledge to instill positive change. Their Youth Leadership program was designed to promote healthy independence and personal empowerment for students ages 11 to 13. The program supports participants by providing opportunities to lead, engage, and succeed through a learn-by-doing approach, with youth-led meetings, shared roles and responsibilities, decision-making, as well as participating in a community service project, environmental project, and final presentation.
The concept of the Youth Leadership Institute (YLI) is closely aligned with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s mission: to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, promote unity and friendship among college women, study and help alleviate problems concerning girls and women to improve their social stature, maintain a progressive interest in college life, and be of “Service to All Mankind.”
“[Youth Leadership Institute] passes on lifelong skills not just in the workplace or their academics, but also in their social-emotional learning–gaining the capacity to be able to tell people how they feel,” stated Kesha Owens, Youth Leadership Institute Advisor.
Within the academy, young girls and boys receive mentoring to prepare them for the future. They participate in workshops designed to develop leadership skills and reinforce self-worth. The training equips them with knowledge, confidence, and sound principles, empowering them to make good life choices and decisions. Over several months, the young leaders engaged in monthly workshops on etiquette, grooming, health, career preparation, leadership, and more. Additionally, they attended social and cultural events, broadening their horizons and enriching their experiences.
At the closing ceremony of YLI, students showcased their final projects in front of family and the community. These projects included an array of talents and displays such as poems, visual performances, and instrumental performances. These showcases demonstrated the culmination of the Youth Leadership Institute and the hard work and dedication the students exhibited to honor their accomplishments.
“They [Youth Leadership Institute graduates] are different students than when they first walked in the door. They are leaders now!” exclaimed Dr. Vivian Gayles, Youth Leadership Institute Advisor.
Amongst family and supportive community members were dignitaries who sought to show the YLI graduates that through hard work comes success. Some of the esteemed officials included Vice Mayor Andrae Gonzales, Kern High District Superintendent Dr. Michael Zulfa, Assistant Superintendent Leo Holland, and community philanthropist Attorney Curtis Floyd. The vice mayor presented the students with certificates of achievement for successfully completing the Youth Leadership Institute and excelling in the course. Attorney Curtis Floyd was recognized for his generosity and investment in the program.
“These are all shining stars, and to be able to have this experience before they show up in high school means that they are going to be the leaders on the campuses in the Kern High School District in the future,” said Dr. Michael Zulfa, Kern High School District Superintendent.
