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Too often, the "influencers" young people find via social media are not the kinds of people who should be molding impressionable minds. In fact, some of them display behavior we hope our children will actively avoid.
But there is no doubt young people do crave guidance and examples from more than just immediate family or adults they run into every day at school. Marietta Community Foundation and Building Bridges to Careers partnered to help meet that need this week, with the InfluencHer Leadership Summit for girls ages 10-12 in Washington County. It was meant to bring "together enthusiastic young minds, passionate mentors and engaging activities" to equip these young ladies with essential leadership skills.
As the participants embarked "on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth and hands-on mentorship," they did so not in a social media echo chamber but with a group of other participants who will become some of the next generation of leaders in the Mid-Ohio Valley.
What a wonderful opportunity to build relationships with one another and the professionals serving as mentors while learning about community service, communication and leadership, mindfulness and self-confidence.
How exciting to think about what these young influencHers will build upon to be part of the next generation that helps propel forward not just our region, but perhaps the state and country.