Growing tomorrow’s leaders: A look at the Amarillo & Canyon Youth Leadership Conference

For more than two decades, the United Way of Amarillo & Canyon has invested in a simple but powerful idea: young people can shape the future of their communities when they’re given the tools, encouragement, and space to lead. Each year, the organization brings together students from area high schools for a one-day Youth Leadership Conference—an entry point for those who wish to join the Youth Cabinet and begin engaging more deeply in community issues.

The purpose of the conference has always been straightforward. Many students have the desire to become leaders, but finding the confidence, skills, and opportunities to put that desire into action can be challenging. By dedicating a full day to leadership development, community awareness, and peer collaboration, the event helps bridge the gap between wanting to lead and knowing how to lead effectively.

Stepping Beyond the Comfort Zone

A recurring message from students is the value of being pushed beyond the familiar. Amarillo High School senior Hayden Brillhart noted that Youth Cabinet activities encourage participants “to go out of our comfort zones,” adding that the experience has boosted both motivation and essential skills such as communication and networking. For many students, these are areas that don’t always get enough attention in the traditional school day, and the conference provides a concentrated chance to practice them.

Similarly, students emphasized that leadership isn’t just about taking initiative—it’s about learning how to collaborate, listen, and build connections. As Brillhart explained, working with peers from other schools helps students develop leadership qualities that their own campus environment might not always provide.

Empowering Younger Voices

The conference also highlights a broader goal: ensuring young people know that their contributions matter. Haley Stoddard, senior director of community impact at United Way of Amarillo & Canyon, explained that the program helps students understand “that their voice matters and giving back to the community even when they’re young.” She added that youth aren’t always given real decision-making opportunities, but the Youth Cabinet has the potential “to change lives.”

This emphasis on empowerment resonates with many participants, who often leave the event with a deeper understanding of how they can influence their community today—not just in the future.

Discovering Community Resources

Another benefit of the conference is exposure to the many resources and organizations that support the Amarillo area. Palo Duro High School student Vanessa De Avila reflected on how much she learned about local services, saying she discovered “so many things out there that are able to help our community and become more united in a way.” For many students, this awareness is a first step toward identifying where they can make meaningful contributions.

Looking Ahead

This year’s conference brought together 287 students—a strong turnout that reflects the community’s growing interest in youth leadership development. United Way has already set its sights on expanding participation, with a goal of more than 300 students for the 2026 event.

As long as young people continue to show interest in developing their leadership potential, programs like this will remain an important part of building strong, connected communities. The conference may last just one day, but for many students, it’s a starting point for years of growth, service, and engagement.