Teen Leadership Waco
Shaping the Leaders of Tomorrow
Teen Leadership Waco equips today’s youth with the essential leadership skills they need to become tomorrow’s change-makers in the Greater Waco community. Research shows that young people who begin volunteering and engaging in their communities are more likely to continue these positive contributions into adulthood. Throughout the program, students gain valuable insights into how Waco’s diverse sectors—government, education, economy, and nonprofits—are interconnected and work together to strengthen our city.
A Unique Experience: The program brings together students from ten different high schools across the Greater Waco area, enriching their experience by fostering diverse perspectives, cross-school collaboration, and lasting relationships. This diversity amplifies the program’s impact, helping students develop a deeper sense of community and shared responsibility.
Program Objectives:
- Inspire Emerging Leaders: Identify and engage high-potential students eager to make a positive difference in their community.
- Build Community Awareness: Educate students on Waco’s local history, government, economy, and social issues that shape our community, equipping them to take an active role in its future.
- Empower Change-Makers: Motivate participants to embrace leadership opportunities, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowering them to contribute to a more vibrant Waco.
About the Program
What is Teen Leadership Waco?
Teen Leadership Waco (TLW) is an exciting program of the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce that offers students a chance to learn about leadership, explore careers, and connect with Waco’s community leaders. Modeled after the Chamber's Leadership Waco program, TLW provides a behind-the-scenes look at the history, government, and social and economic issues that keep our community running.
Through the program, you’ll meet with leaders from various sectors in Waco, learn leadership skills, gain career insights, and explore the real challenges they face in their roles. You’ll also participate in team building and leadership development sessions designed to help you grow alongside your classmates.
Why Join Teen Leadership Waco?
- Meet and befriend students from across the county.
- Learn skills to help you grow as a leader.
- Develop as a community leader and problem-solver.
- Discover how different sectors of our city work together.
- Become an engaged citizen who works with others for the good of our community.
- It looks great on your resume!
Who Can Apply?
TLW is open to high school sophomores and juniors from McLennan County, including homeschooled students. The selection process is competitive, with only 25 students chosen each year by a team of Chamber volunteers who review each application closely. Make sure to put time and thought into your application to show your commitment to leadership and community!
What’s the Time Commitment?
Classes meet one Monday per month from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with an additional service day (likely on a weekend) during the program. You will only be permitted to miss one class day, so please look at your calendar to make sure you can be present each day.
Please note: TLW runs the calendar year (February 2025-December 2025).
Applying for Teen Leadership Waco
Applications for the 2026 Class will be open in October 2025.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
