Leadership often does not have a precise definition.  We all have known and have seen the power of leaders that have “stepped up” in our communities and organizations.  One definition I really like states: “Leadership is a set of skills and attitudes that can be learned and developed that will help the leader influence the actions of others.”  Everyone has the potential to be a leader.  Youth can learn leadership skills in school, home, and clubs.

There are two models of leadership; transactional leadership and transformational leadership.   Transactional leadership is “product” oriented meaning the leader sets up the rules and procedures to make a product, and those led comply with the rules to produce the product.  This type of leader will “do” such things as lead meetings, make decisions, tell people what to do, and speak to groups.

Transformational leadership involves helping people transcend their own self-interests for the good of the group, organization, or society.  The developing leader considers their long term need to develop themselves, rather than their immediate needs.  This type of leadership focuses on “process” and “the meaning” of being a leader. 

You can help foster leadership development by making sure you include the following skills and experiences in all your programs and organizations.

• Collaborative experiences-Provide opportunities for youth to work with others to create a project, program, or event.
• Personal Character development-Help youth understand what it means to be a person of character, foster youth’s ability to learn to understand self. 
• Mentoring/Role Modeling/Nurturing-Encourage older youth to work with younger children and/or have meaningful relationships with a caring adult.
• Cultural and citizenship experiences-Make time for community service, service-learning, and travel experiences.
• Communication experiences-Give youth a chance to serve as an officer, give a presentation, and participate in an interview.
• Management experiences-Select an event and have youth plan, organize and carry out the event.
• Group Leadership experiences-Never underestimates the value of youth leading games, working with small groups, serving as project leaders. 
• Formal education-Look for and support opportunities for youth to participate in leadership workshops at the county, regional, state and national levels.  
• Spiritual and other significant life experiences-Make sure that each learning opportunity provides time for reflecting on meaningful experiences. 

I want to leave you with a favorite leadership quote of mine.  “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.  Indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead