Engaging Youth in Leadership

We can’t wait for IN THE GAME, April 1-4 in Grand Junction. And we know you’re excited too. This is not only a chance to network, but to learn best practices and the tools being utilized by communities around Colorado to increase their economic vitality. 

 

We asked the folks leading the IN THE GAME sessions to tell us a little bit about their session. Today, we are highlighting Engaging Youth in Leadership.

 

Thursday, April 2, 8:30 to 10: 30, Plenary Presentation given by Edgar Quiroz, director of LFMG Music Academy.

 

We know that young people are the future, but how do we engage them in an authentic way that will inspire them to be the leaders of tomorrow? 

 

Quiroz’s vision is to create communities where young people aren’t just participants, but leaders and co-creators of the future. That is done by engaging youth in leadership early through mentorship programs, creative opportunities and giving young people real decision-making roles. Not only does this develop confidence as well as practical skills, it allows them to see themselves as valuable contributors to their community, because they are.

 

“This session explores how communities can intentionally create leadership pathways that empower young people to shape local culture, economies, and downtown spaces while building the next generation of engaged leaders,” says Quiroz.

 

Nonprofits, schools, local business and community leaders must collaborate because authentic youth leadership doesn’t happen in a vacuum. There must exist meaningful ways for young people to contribute to real projects that have an impact across their communities. 

 

“Innovation happens when youth voices are included in the process,” says Quiroz. “When young people are invited to help shape programs, events, and community initiatives, they bring creativity, new perspectives, and energy that can lead to more vibrant and inclusive downtown spaces.”

 

It’s not just about creating the leaders of tomorrow, but it’s about gaining the input of youth right now. When young people are given real responsibilities, and not just symbolic roles, that can change the game. Real confidence comes from actively contributing to their communities, not to mention the development of critical skills. Quiroz states that one of the most important lessons he’s learned is that our jobs as adults is to create the environment, mentorship, and pathways that allow that potential to grow.

 

Quiroz wants participants in this session to leave with the understanding that youth engagement does not only mean programming for young people. It’s about creating real pathways to leadership, and creating young people who are partners in shaping the conversation. 

 

“Even small steps, like inviting youth into conversations, decision-making, and community projects have a lasting impact,” states Quiroz. His presentation will contain real life examples that have happened at LFMG Music Academy. 

 

Thank you to Edgar Quiroz for providing this information on this session. 

Written by Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer, HeidiTown Consulting, LLC