Students from Apalachee High School, Barrow Arts and Sciences Academy, and Winder-Barrow High School were recognized at the Barrow Chamber of Commerce for graduating the Youth Leadership Barrow program.

Through the Youth Leadership Barrow (YLB) program, the students interacted with local decision-makers to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to become confident, caring leaders in their community and schools. Participants completed community service projects, toured local government and industry organizations, and were mentored by local business and non-profit leaders.

Congratulations to our 2025-2026 YLB Graduates!

Apalachee High School

• Isabella Abreu
• Hazel Biondi
• JB Mancillas
• Sybil Padinor- Okyere
• Charly Rudell
• Ryan Rudell
• Gracie Sikes
• Kristina Solis

Barrow Arts & Sciences Academy

• Jayden Ducelus
• Carmen Jackson
• Alex Neupert

Winder-Barrow High School

• Tripp Britt
• Jake Burdziejko
• Chase Coleman
• Caitlyn Edwards
• Emily Garcia
• Guadalupe Jimenez-Hernandez
• Vanyatta Watson

More about Youth Leadership Barrow

YLB uses a leadership development curriculum from the University of Georgia Fanning Institute. Each month, students explore a different aspect of leadership. Students also focus on a specific soft skill each month, like handshakes, writing thank you notes, or making eye contact.

To apply for participation in YLB, students must:

• Demonstrate leadership potential (in school and/or the community).
• Be in good academic standing with clear attendance and behavior records.
• Willing to participate in all scheduled sessions.

The YLB program runs from August through April. Sessions are held once a month (except December) during the school day.

Thank you to our sponsors:

• Peachstate Federal Credit Union
• Jackson EMC
• Georgia Power
• Sullins Engineering, LLC
• Camp Twin Lakes
• Barrow Chamber of Commerce

If you are interested in participating in Youth Leadership Barrow next year, contact your school's Work-Based Learning Coordinator who serves as the YLB facilitator.