The Southern Region Teen Leadership Conference (SRTLC) brings together youth from across the southern U.S., providing them with a chance to develop leadership skills, give back to their communities, and connect with peers from different states. This year, Franklin County was proud to send two delegates to join the 400 participants at the 2024 conference.

For many teens, this was their first time attending a regional leadership event, and the experience left a lasting impression. In fact, 85% of participants said the conference helped them feel more confident in their leadership abilities, while 90% shared that they were inspired to take part in community service projects after returning home. Franklin County’s delegates were no exception, walking away with new skills and a fresh sense of purpose.

One highlight of the event was a service project focused on creating STEM kits for back-to-school events. The teens worked together to assemble more than 100 kits, which were distributed to students in need. This effort aimed to spark interest in science, technology, engineering, and math among younger students, providing them with hands-on materials to explore these fields.

Another favorite for Franklin County’s delegates was the “Southern Showdown,” a lively competition designed to encourage teamwork and problem-solving. The friendly rivalry among teams led to valuable lessons in leadership and collaboration, with participants working together under pressure to win the coveted golden horse trophy.

Survey results from SRTLC show just how impactful the experience was, with 87% of attendees feeling supported by their peers and 91% motivated to take on leadership roles in their communities. For Franklin County’s 4-H program, the success of SRTLC highlights the importance of providing youth with these kinds of opportunities to grow, lead, and make a difference.