Every young person has heard some version of the same message: work hard, stay focused, and one day you’ll be ready to lead. One day.

But what if that framing is a bit backwards?

That’s the question at the heart of the 2026 Youth Symposium: Lead Where You Are — a free event for students ages 12–18 happening this Saturday, March 14, at Lead the Way Learning Academy in Columbus, Ohio.

The symposium is a partnership between Elevate Northland and the Delta Omicron Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, two organizations that share a commitment to developing the next generation of community leaders.

Built Around a Simple Idea

Alicia C.J. Henry, Basileus of the Delta Omicron Sigma Alumnae Chapter, describes the event’s premise directly: “This symposium is about helping young people recognize that leadership doesn’t start later in life, it starts right where they are.”

For Henry and her chapter, that belief shapes the way the day is designed, with interactive workshops and dynamic speakers who engage students, not just address them.

“You don’t have to wait to become a leader,” Henry says. “The moment you choose to influence the world around you, you already are one.”

This event is free to attend. Lunch is provided. Students who participate will receive a certificate of hours applicable toward high school graduation requirements — meaningful recognition of a morning invested in their own growth.

“We’re grateful to support the Youth Symposium by opening our doors and providing a space for this important work as it aligns with everything we do at Lead The Way. Elevate Northland brings tremendous value through its commitment to strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for young people. We’re proud to help create an environment where students can learn, connect, and gain practical tools to begin leading right where they are,” commented Lead The Way (LTW).

Registration opens at 9:30 AM. The program runs 10 AM to 1 PM.

Building Businesses and Strengthening Partnerships

Elevate Northland exists to build businesses and strengthen communities — and that work starts with people. Partnerships like this one, with organizations already doing the work of investing in young people, are what that mission looks like in practice.

If you know a student in Columbus who is ready to lead where they are, there is still time to register.

REGISTER HERE

📅 Saturday, March 14 | 10 AM–1 PM 📍 Lead the Way Learning Academy | 215 N Front St, Columbus, OH 🎟 Free to attend | Lunch provided