Youth delegates gathered in the Hostess City of the South to share successes, discuss challenges, and explore new strategies for community engagement. The weekend opened with a welcome from Mayor Van R. Johnson II and the Chatham County Youth Commission, followed by team-building activities and networking opportunities.  

“Savannah was proud to serve as the backdrop for this inspiring gathering of youth leaders,” Mayor Johnson said. “As Savannah-Chatham County serves as the epicenter of governmental youth engagement in the nation, our city is deeply committed to investing in young people, and it was truly uplifting to witness their passion, creativity, and energy. Because of them, our community shines brightly.”

Highlights included Youth Council presentations, recognition of Youth Placemaking Grant recipients, workshops led by UNICEF USA, a keynote address from Dr. Bertice Berry, and a riverboat cruise along Savannah’s historic waterfront. The symposium concluded with a tour of Savannah State University, Georgia’s first historically Black public university.

“GeorgiaForward was proud to support this gathering of bright, motivated young leaders,” Sadie Krawczyk, managing director of GeorgiaForward, said. “The Youth Symposium is all about empowering students to build the confidence, skills, and connections they need to return to their communities and make real change. Watching them collaborate and learn from one another gives us tremendous hope for Georgia’s future.”

The City of Savannah and GeorgiaForward thank all volunteers, speakers, and partners, including UNICEF USA and the Savannah Civic Center, whose contributions made the 2025 Youth Symposium a success