This past Saturday two teens stood up in front of 61 of their peers and led a committee meeting. They gave clear concise direction, they were bouncing back and forth between each other, they were calm and confident, and the passion for what they were doing was evident in every ounce of their being. When the meeting was over, both of them were beaming – so incredibly proud of the work they had done.
What’s interesting is that these two teens had met with me the night before for what turned into a 3 hour meeting to prepare for their 1 hour in front of the group. Step by step we went through and outlined the meeting logically, brainstormed & designed the individual exercises, discussed and practiced how to give clear directions using cues, and talked about how to balance the energy of the room through body language and vocal cues. Can you imagine having this kind of training as a 10th & 11th grader?
Each week two teens from the Teen Executive Committee have the opportunity to learn and practice how to effectively lead a group. It’s definitely a challenge, but an incredible learning opportunity in a safe, positive space. Then as we break in the middle of that meeting, twelve more teens step up and lead their smaller group of 8-10 peers in individual committee meetings while being supported and guided by their Adult Advisor.
PFO is training a new kind of teen. A teen who learns how to be an effective communicator, one who isn’t afraid to stand up in front a roomful of their peers and one who is learning that leading isn’t always as easy as it looks. So for next week’s committee meeting I’ll sit in the back of the room and get teary eyed once again. After all, I am watching the future leaders of America…and they are beautiful.