Program
Leadership Academy
The Leadership Academy
Program Descriptions
Overview & Fees
Through interactive sessions, participants gain hands-on experience in government operations, campaign development, and strategic community engagement—equipping them to become the next generation of public service leaders in Georgia.
Classes for Georgia’s Next Leaders will run for approximately an hour and a half. The program will follow a hybrid model, utilizing Google Classroom and in-person sessions at Georgia State University In-person classes beginning on Date TBD, and will be held biweekly on Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.
REGISTRATION FEES
- Introductory Session: Free
- Single Session: $25
- Six Sessions $125 (receive one session free)
>>CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR ENTIRE SERIES
>> REGISTER FOR INDIVIDUAL SESSIONS BELOW
Format
Each session will consist of a one-hour discussion led by the course instructor, followed by a guest speaker who will share personal experiences related to the session’s topic. A Q&A segment will follow. After each session, students will complete extracurricular assignments, which will be submitted via the Georgia’s Next Leaders Google Classroom.
A core component of the program is the Community Engagement Lab, a hands-on learning experience. During the final two weeks, participants will engage in in-person canvassing—one session in a downtown Atlanta neighborhood and another near the Georgia Aquarium. The goal of this lab is to build skills in messaging, persuasion, and active listening while discussing non-partisan, values-based issues that impact local communities.
Participants will aim to engage with 50 residents, reporting back on what matters most to them and what was learned from those conversations. Georgia’s Next Leaders will provide all necessary literature. Grassroots canvassing is a powerful tool for building trust through face-to-face, meaningful dialogue. It not only raises awareness but also empowers both the messenger and the community to take action on issues that matter locally.
Upon successful completion of the full program, graduates will receive:
- A certificate of completion
- A letter of recommendation from Georgia’s Next Leaders
- An exclusive Georgia’s Next Leaders t-shirt
Introductory Session
Free overview of Georgia’s Next Leaders training program for young people interested in politics.
Date | Time | Location
This session focuses on the core principles of statesmanship, emphasizing ethical leadership, diplomacy, and effective governance. Participants learn how to build trust, navigate difficult decisions, and prioritize the public good over personal or partisan interests. Through case studies and role-playing exercises, participants develop skills in conflict resolution, unifying diverse groups, and fostering long-term vision. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to lead with integrity, make thoughtful decisions, and inspire confidence in their leadership.
Session 1: Community Advocacy
Comprehensive skills training to champion local causes
Date | Time | Location
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Maya Davis
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Austin Heller/Scotty
This foundational session introduces participants to the principles of civic engagement and public leadership. Participants will learn how to:
- Understand local government structures
- Assess and prioritize community needs
- Mobilize public support for policy initiatives
Key skills include grassroots organizing, strategic messaging, and public speaking. Through case studies, role-playing exercises, and group discussions, participants will develop confidence and clarity as community advocates ready to drive meaningful local change.
Session 3: Fundraising Strategies
Securing Financial Support
Date | Time | Location
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Dakota – Planned Parenthood
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Scotty Smart
Participants are introduced to the essential components of political and advocacy fundraising. This session covers:
- Donor identification and outreach
- Event planning for fundraising
- Compliance in financial reporting
Participants will craft a compelling fundraising pitch and design a sample campaign budget, building confidence in soliciting support and managing campaign finances ethically and efficiently.
Session 2: Board of Election 101
Understanding Electoral Processes
Date | Time | Location
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Jared Diagre
-
State Rep Bell
This session explores the legal and procedural landscape of Georgia’s election system. Participants will gain a practical understanding of:
- Candidate filing requirements
- Voter registration laws and deadlines
- Campaign ethics and compliance
Hands-on activities include a mock candidate filing exercise, Q&A with local election officials, and collaborative research on local election board practices. The goal is to demystify electoral processes and prepare participants to engage with or run in local elections effectively.
Session 4: Campaign Operations
Running a Winning Campaign
Date | Time | Location
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Jonathan Bonner
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Senator Wicks
This session delves into the tactical side of campaigning. Participants will explore:
- Campaign planning and team structure
- Voter outreach and Get-Out-The-Vote (GOTV) efforts
- Social media engagement and messaging strategy
Through simulations, mock debates, and team role-playing, participants will sharpen their campaign management and leadership skills—gaining hands-on experience in running a grassroots, voter-centered campaign.
Session 5: Mental Health
Leading Without Burnout
Date | Time | Location
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Dr. Chandra
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Councilman Alfred Dixion
Leadership requires resilience. This session offers practical tools to help participants manage the emotional and psychological challenges of campaigning and advocacy work. Topics include:
- Stress management and boundary-setting
- Mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques
- Work-life balance and sustainable leadership
Activities include guided wellness exercises, role-playing stress scenarios, and the creation of personal self-care plans. The session also emphasizes the value of delegation, community support, and professional help when needed.
Session 6: Statesmanship
Ethical Leadership and Governance
Date | Time | Location
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Rep. Flournoy
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Councilman Gutierrez
This culminating session explores what it means to lead with integrity. Participants will engage in deep reflection and practical exercises focused on:
- Ethical decision-making and public accountability
- Diplomacy, coalition-building, and conflict resolution
- Vision-setting and long-term leadership planning
Using case studies and real-life leadership dilemmas, participants will practice building trust, making thoughtful decisions, and maintaining a focus on the public good over personal or partisan interest.
Capstone Project
Optional Program Completion Project
Participants will apply what they’ve learned to develop a Capstone Project: either a political campaign roadmap or a community advocacy initiative. Final projects are presented to a panel of political mentors and program alumni for feedback and potential partnership opportunities.
If you have any questions or comments, regarding the Georgia’s Next Leaders curriculum, contact us below
