Youth Leadership Broward (YLB), a nine-month program that develops the leadership skills of Broward County high school juniors, recently graduated a class of 59 who participated in seven themed days to learn more about health and human services, government, business, culture, arts, recreation, media, education, criminal justice, history and environment in Broward County.
In addition each student was assigned to a small group that developed and taught six sessions of leadership curriculum to elementary school students at eight YMCA after-school sites.
“Our Youth Leadership Broward graduates are the future leaders in our community and beyond,” said Laurie Sallarulo, CEO of Leadership Broward Foundation Inc. “We are so proud of their passion and enthusiasm for our program and for what they learn through the program.”
Among the award winners recognized at graduation were Samantha Rosenberg of Weston, a student at American Heritage, as Leader of the Year; Jamie Ramos of Coral Springs, a student at JP Taravella, for Most Leadership Growth; and Isabel Coto of Deerfield Beach, a student at Atlantic Technical High School, who was awarded the Marsicano Scholarship of $500 for demonstrating outstanding leadership qualities.
This award was started by Lauren Marsicano (YLB Class XVIII) and her parents to recognize the achievements and hard work of YLB participants. The recipient is chosen based on his or her leadership skills, dedication to service before self, and unwavering faith and dedication towards making a difference within the community.
“Youth Leadership Broward gave our class a clear understanding of some of Broward County’s biggest challenges and what young leaders can do to help solve them,” said Rosenberg. “Just as importantly, the program opened students’ minds to exciting career opportunities here in Broward County that will shape and better our community.”
YLB offers participants the opportunity to gain real-life experiences through monthly program days, where they interact with leaders from businesses, government agencies, and civic organizations; they examine critical issues in the community; and they become educated and empowered to create solutions.
Additional youth program opportunities are available through YLB by calling Laura McRell, Program and Marketing Manager at 954.767.8866 or emailing her at laura@leadershipbroward.org.