I observed Student Venture using a subtle approach to youth leadership development. By this, I mean there were no heavy-handed lectures or mini institute type classes where you could expect to get the last word on leadership. Instead, Student Venture organized their conference around a rally gathering in the morning and an event meant to bring closure to the day's events in the evening. There was a mix of elective discussions and field trip activities, all guided toward specific goals or outcomes. Student Venture presents leadership to young people not as an act done by special people, but rather the opposite.
Leadership is ordinary everyday activity performed by ordinary people.
Leadership is recognizing what is the right thing to do and having the courage to do it. The focus of the conference was about helping youth to recognize the right thing to do, finding the courage within to act, and identify support from people around them. The kids gained valuable strategies that will help them to stand by their convictions. I liked the design of this conference, never any time for boredom or mischief. Each day ended on a high note with some activity that was pure fun, no veiled attempt to teach a lesson - just plain fun.