Youth Leadership

Empowering Students to Live Leadership, Not Just Learn About It.

Founded in 2014 by Dr. Edward “Doc” Myers and Angela Davis, the Youth Leadership Summit was created to help students discover their full leadership potential. Today, under the direction of Jon Marc Branscum and Alexandra McClain, the program continues that vision by equipping youth with the tools, skills, and relationships they need to lead with character and courage. Our goal isn’t helping students figure out what they want to be when they grow up, but WHO they want to be when they grow up.

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Who We Serve

YLS is open to students in grades 4–12 who are ready to grow, step up, and make a difference. Whether nominated by a teacher, encouraged by a parent, or stepping forward on their own, participants join a supportive community where their voices matter.

What We Do

At YLS, leadership isn’t something you practice for a weekend; it’s a way of life. Through interactive summits and ongoing gatherings, students:

  • Build confidence in public speaking and communication
  • Develop character and resilience through real-world challenges
  • Understand social media and online identity
  • Learn teamwork, problem-solving, and goal-setting skills
  • Connect with mentors, community leaders, and peers who inspire growth
  • Explore how their leadership can make an impact in school, church, and community

Leadership Beyond the Summit

The Summit is just the beginning. Leadership doesn’t end when the event is over — it carries into the classroom, the lunch table, the ball field, and the future. That’s why YLS offers more than large-group sessions:

  • One-on-One Leadership Coaching: Personalized guidance designed to help students delve deeper, set clear goals, and grow through focused mentorship.
  • Small Group Trainings: Interactive, tailored workshops for classrooms, youth groups, or clubs that want a hands-on approach to leadership development.

These flexible options bring YLS principles into schools, churches, and communities year-round, ensuring every student has the chance to grow as a leader wherever they are.

How It Works

  • Monthly Sessions (Sept–May): Hands-on workshops, team activities, and classes that tie leadership skills to everyday life. Ideal for classrooms and clubs with regular meeting times.
  • Summit Experiences: Weekend and 5-day events that immerse students in leadership development, service projects, and community building. Our traditional 5-day summits are scheduled by the YLS team each summer. Businesses, churches, schools, etc., can schedule weekend or 2-day summits to invest in future leaders in their communities and organizations.
  • Ongoing Support: Weekly journaling, mentorship, and follow-up activities keep leadership alive between sessions.

The YLS Difference

At YLS, relationship is at the heart of everything we do. Students aren’t just taught leadership concepts — they live them out alongside mentors and peers who believe in their potential. Upon completion, participants understand that leadership isn’t a title or position. It is who you are in small moments each day.

Outcomes & Impact

Our students leave with:

  • Greater confidence in who they are
  • Stronger understanding of character and values
  • Practical leadership skills they can put into practice immediately
  • A sense of purpose and belonging in their schools and communities