A new effort to develop the next generation of leaders in Shawano County is gaining momentum.
In March, Leadership Shawano County, a program under the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce, hosted informational meetings to introduce the proposed Youth Leadership Shawano County program.
Attendees included representatives from local organizations, businesses and community groups, all expressing interest in supporting the development of leadership opportunities for area youths.
“This is an exciting opportunity to invest in our youths and the future of Shawano County,” said Nancy Schultz, coordinator of the Leadership Shawano County program. “Together, we can build strong leaders for tomorrow.”
The program is designed to equip high school students with the skills, confidence and real-world experiences needed to become informed, engaged and impactful leaders in their communities.
It will focus on interactive learning and hands-on experiences, helping students build communication and leadership skills while gaining a deeper understanding of local government, business and community systems, Schultz said.
A key focus of the program is helping students understand their role as active citizens.
Participants will have opportunities to engage directly with local leaders and organizations, combining classroom-style learning with experiential activities.
The program will also emphasize personal growth. Students will be encouraged to reflect on their values, identify their strengths and set goals for their future. A key component of the initiative is fostering active citizenship, helping participants understand how local decisions are made and how they can contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Organizers are currently collaborating with community partners to finalize program details, with plans to launch in the upcoming school year.
Next steps include securing funding to support the program and building partnerships with local school districts. Community members and organizations interested in supporting or learning more about the initiative are encouraged to connect with Leadership Shawano County.
To learn more about this program, visit https://www.leadershipshawanocounty.com.
