Dozens of local eighth-graders sworn into Savannah Youth Council

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - A new class of young leaders is stepping up to represent their peers and learn the ropes of local government.

The City of Savannah officially welcomed 32 local eighth-grade students into the Savannah Youth Council (SYC) during an induction ceremony on September 3 at the Coastal Georgia Center. The annual event, run by the city’s Human Services Department, kicks off a year-long program focused on civic education, hands-on leadership training, community service, and personal growth.

Created by the Savannah City Council back in 2004, the SYC is designed to give middle schoolers a unique look at how municipal government works while helping them advocate for the city’s youth.

“Each student contributes a distinct perspective and significant potential to the Savannah Youth Council,” Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said. “We are pleased to welcome them and anticipate their growth as leaders, their commitment to serving the community, and their role in helping to shape Savannah’s future in a way that only they can.”

The program is currently guided by Lead Advisor and Human Services Program Coordinator Comia Flynn, who highlighted the courage it takes for young students to step into leadership roles.

“Induction represents a pivotal moment, initiating a transformative leadership experience,” Flynn said. “These students have chosen to embrace leadership through service, and we look forward to supporting their development as informed and engaged young leaders.”

Over the next year, the 32 new members will get a behind-the-scenes look at city departments, shadow local leaders, participate in service projects, and learn what it takes to be active civic participants.