Leadership Oklahoma City (LOKC) is opening applications for its prestigious high school leadership training program, Youth Leadership Exchange (YLX), entering its 30th year.
Founded in 1995, YLX continues to empower and inspire high school students in the Oklahoma City area to become effective leaders in their communities. Applications for 2024-2025 programs are now open through Monday, April 15, at midnight.
With three distinct program tracks – Leadership Skills, Youth in Action and Youth Council of OKC – YLX is designed to guide OKC Metro high school students to develop essential leadership qualities, foster civic engagement and cultivate a sense of responsibility towards community service. Programs run alongside school calendars, beginning in August and wrapping up in May.
“The Youth Leadership Exchange program has a long-standing tradition of nurturing the next generation of leaders in Oklahoma City,” said Lesley Jones, program director of YLX. “As we prepare to celebrate our thirtieth year, we remain committed to providing high school students with the tools, resources, and experiences they need to make a positive impact in their schools and communities.”
Working directly with Mayor David Holt and the City Council of The City of OKC, the Youth Council of OKC program track provides students with a unique opportunity to serve as representatives of their peers. Participants travel to each City Ward, and learn how municipalities function in communities and how to be leaders among fellow Oklahoma City citizens. Each month, students report the latest news and initiatives of the City of OKC from the City Hall Council Chambers “horseshoe” aired on local television and hosted on YouTube.
The Leadership Skills track focuses on honing essential leadership skills such as communication, self-awareness and problem-solving, as well as meeting key leaders in the OKC Metro. They get to explore various industries, careers and opportunities to have influence right here in OKC. Students engage in workshops, discussions, and hands-on activities led by industry professionals and community leaders. This program mirrors Leadership OKC’s Signature and LOYAL leadership programming for adult professionals.
Youth in Action empowers students to address a social issue they choose to advocate for as a class through the perspective of non-profit organizations (NPOs). Youth in Action students simulate a funding foundation and are taken through the grant application and fundraising process. The class then selects a local NPO to grant the funds for a project that aligns with their foundation’s mission. Students learn to meet with business leaders and community donors to present their mission and gain funding for their grant. This is the most hands-on training program for teenagers looking to effect positive change in their communities.
High school students interested in joining the Youth Leadership Exchange program are encouraged to apply online at lokc.org/ylx. The application deadline is Monday, April 15 at midnight. Selection criteria includes demonstrated leadership potential or experience, commitment to community service, academic achievement and overall character.
For more information about Youth Leadership Exchange and the application process, please visit lokc.org/ylx or contact Lesley Jones at 405-549-0261 or ylx@lokc.org.
