Earlier this summer, three promising youth from Indianola, Roosevelt Byrd, Jadavion Stanley and Demarcus Johnson, had the distinguished honor of attending the Mississippi Votes Summer Youth Policy Institute, held July 7-13 at Millsaps College in Jackson.
The trio was recommended through the GAP Leadership Program, under the leadership of Shequite Johnson, who has been a steadfast advocate for youth involvement in civic engagement.
During the week-long institute, Byrd, Stanley and Johnson joined other young leaders from across the state in a transformative experience that aimed to deepen their understanding of policy-making, advocacy, and leadership.
The program included visits to key historical sites such as the Two Mississippi Museums, the Emmett Till Interpretive Center, and the Medgar Evers Home, offering the participants a profound connection to the history of Civil Rights and the ongoing struggle for justice.
“The earlier we involve our youth in civic engagement, the better equipped they will be to lead and advocate for their communities in the future,” said Shequite Johnson. “Roosevelt, Jadavion, and Demarcus have shown incredible promise, and their experience at this institute is a critical step in nurturing their potential as change-makers.”
Maisie Brown, the camp director, shared her enthusiasm for the Indianola participants, stating, “This makes my heart smile! These are truly amazing kids with unique personalities and interests. It’s fascinating to see how they interact with others despite their differences. I’d love to stay connected and explore more mentorship opportunities with them.”
The Mississippi Votes Summer Youth Policy Institute provided Byrd, Stanley, and Johnson with a comprehensive look at the importance of civic engagement and offered them the tools and inspiration needed to make a lasting impact in their community. Their attendance not only marked a significant achievement for these young men but also highlighted the ongoing commitment of the Indianola community to foster leadership and advocacy among its youth.
As these three return home, they carry with them the knowledge and skills to advocate for positive change, embodying the next generation of leaders poised to make a difference in Mississippi.
