Regardless of which 21CL program you attend, you gain essential soft skills—teamwork, leadership, grit, and public speaking—that will support you in any field. My advice to students is to take the networking opportunities seriously. People are eager to support you at this stage, and you never know how one connection could help shape your future.
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21CL’s Alumni Board invites you to join them for a LEADERsip at New Realm Brewery in Atlanta to network, reconnect, or simply learn more about 21st Century Leaders during their Power of We giving campaign.
No RSVP required; cash bar only. Show up as you are!
Let’s inspire youth to lead.
looking back, the way I choose to lead likely has its roots in the 21CL program. I believe in servant leadership, advocating for owning our own career development, and investing in those around you, all tenets of the 21CL philosophy.
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I believe 21CL is one of the most important programs and institutions an aspiring young leader can attend/ be a part of. I’ve had the privilege of attending the program, as well as working as a Summer Leadership Team member, Institute Director for the Summer Institutes and serving on the Alumni Board. I know what it is like to be heavily involved in 21CL and watch countless students go through the program and grow from their experiences
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The Leadership Open is 21CL’s inaugural pickleball tournament, hosted by 21CL students and alumni. The family-friendly** tournament will take place on Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 1-4pm at Dill Dinkers Pickleball in Atlanta, Georgia. Player spots, spectator tickets, and sponsorships available. Registration and more information to be announced soon! **players must be high school aged OR older to participate.
21CL helped me learn to lead with confidence while also valuing collaboration and diverse perspectives, and I received practical opportunities to apply these skills. That’s my leadership style inspired by 21CL!
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I had dreamt of being a physician and pursuing a career in the medical field for as long as I could remember, however, that dream evolved with my participation in 21CL. When I became a 21st Century Leader, I was exposed to multiple different career paths that sparked new interests!
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Learning how to craft an elevator pitch and network effectively was incredibly valuable. Understanding how to network properly and efficiently is an essential skill, especially in Washington D.C. and on Capitol Hill. This skill has stayed with me throughout high school, college, and now in my professional career. I am truly grateful to 21CL for teaching me and other high school students these important skills at such a crucial stage in our lives
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Programs like 21CL are a gift of knowledge and experience like no other. One gets to meet new people both peers and professionals, exercise their public speaking and leadership skills, as well as be taken out of their comfort zone so they can improve. Programs like these are crucial as it’s difficult to gain the experience and knowledge by yourself or casually going about life. This focused program rapidly improves your skills and puts you ahead in life, socially and occupationally.
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21CL showed me that leading from a relatable perspective is the best way to bond with people. My counselors at the institute were like big siblings to me for the week I attended 21CL Summer Leadership Institute, and I used the lesson and energy from that bond to be a counselor for 21CL students during the last 2 years. It’s helped me truly make an impact on those younger than me.
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