High school students from the Youth Leadership Somerset Class of 2023 pose in front of the Human Services building with Commissioner Paul Drake (far left), after receiving their graduation certificates.

Youth Leadership Somerset, a community leadership program for Somerset County youth entering grades 10-12, is accepting applications for the 2023-2024 program year, which runs from September through May. Classes are held one Saturday per month from roughly 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. All sessions are held in Somerset County, and most take place in Somerville. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, June 11.

Youth Leadership Somerset gives participants an opportunity to develop their leadership skills and form connections with peers from across the county. Through presentations by community leaders, small group challenges, and interactive programming, participants explore a wide variety of subjects including the environment, mental health, law enforcement, emergency response, housing, economic development, recycling, local government, justice, healthcare, culture, and leadership.

The application is available on the county website here - Youth Leadership Somerset Application 2023/2024.

Candidates will be selected by mid-August. Those accepted to the program will receive a full scholarship to ensure that financial status is not a barrier.

Feedback from past participants: 

“Youth Leadership Somerset gave me a broader perspective of the world and how I can impact the community around me now and in the future. For anyone interested in this program, it is a one in a lifetime opportunity and I'm so grateful for the experience.”

“Youth Leadership Somerset has been a wonderful place to ponder important economic and social questions. The sessions have been filled with discovery and growth.”

Developed by the Leadership Somerset Class of 2000, Youth Leadership Somerset is sponsored by the Somerset County Board of Commissioners. To learn about the adult leadership program, contact us at leadershipsomerset@co.somerset.nj.us or visit the website at Leadership Somerset.

For more information about applying to Youth Leadership Somerset, contact Melania Tchir at (732) 469-3363 or youthleadership@co.somerset.nj.us.