On November 3rd, we held our second Youth Committee meeting, where we focused on developing our leadership skills and strengthening our teamwork. This session was all about understanding what makes a good leader and how each of us can bring those qualities into our work on the committee.

Key Takeaways on Leadership

During the leadership training, we explored what it means to be a true leader. We learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers or giving commands. Instead, it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute. Good leaders encourage open communication, build trust, and allow team members to take responsibility. We talked about how true leaders don’t work alone—they support others and make space for everyone to shine.

We identified three main skills that are essential for strong leadership:

1. Communication - Effective leaders are clear and open, ensuring that everyone on the team is informed and heard.

2. Responsibility - Great leaders take ownership of their tasks and encourage accountability across the team.

3. Decision-Making - Leaders involve their teams in decision-making, respecting different perspectives and making thoughtful choices together.

By focusing on these skills, we can create a more supportive, productive, and engaged committee.

Updates from Our Committees

After the leadership training, each committee shared updates on their current projects and goals. Here’s a look at what everyone’s been working on:

• Public Art Committee: The team is coordinating weekly meetings to brainstorm ideas, plan projects, and apply for grants. They’re building a process where all members can suggest ideas, while co-chairs help finalize decisions after group discussions.

• Environmental Justice Committee: This committee is leading community projects like screenings, clean-up events, and gathering data on environmental issues. Each member has specific tasks, ensuring the group stays on track and operates smoothly.

• Wellness Committee: Focused on promoting wellness, this team is organizing activities like community hikes and gardening projects. They’re also working to connect with local schools to support wellness programs.

• Water Conservation Committee: This group is focused on water conservation initiatives, such as building aquaponic systems and tracking progress on tasks. They meet regularly to discuss ideas and make decisions as a team, with co-chairs leading the final steps.

Moving Forward

Our meeting reinforced the importance of working together with strong leadership and teamwork. Each of us has an important role, and we’re excited to apply these skills as we tackle our projects. By building trust, supporting one another, and communicating effectively, we’re setting the stage for a successful year.