World Changers Organization empowers youth voices in community decision-making

The Hampton City Council held a ceremonial session on February 26, 2025, focusing on community engagement and youth empowerment. The meeting began with a presentation from the youth-led organization, World Changers, which advocates for change in homes, schools, and communities.

The representatives from World Changers outlined their mission to uplift student voices and bridge the gap between young people and decision-makers. They emphasized the importance of creating spaces where students can express their needs directly to those in charge, asserting that students are the experts in their own experiences. By prioritizing student input, the organization aims to ensure that decisions affecting their future are informed and effective.

The presentation highlighted various initiatives aimed at empowering young leaders. Programs such as an annual winter retreat, officer positions, and committee responsibilities were discussed as opportunities for personal leadership development. The organization also stressed the importance of mindfulness, ensuring that students develop not only as effective leaders but also as balanced individuals.

Following the presentation, the council members expressed their support for the initiatives presented by World Changers. They acknowledged the significance of youth involvement in community decision-making and discussed potential partnerships to further amplify student voices.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to explore collaborative efforts with World Changers, aiming to foster a community where student voices are not only heard but acted upon. The next steps will involve further discussions on how to integrate youth perspectives into local governance and community planning.