Over the past year, I had the utmost privilege of representing Illinois on the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Leadership Council (YLC). Whenever I talk about my experience, I first start by saying it all began with a dream.
Since middle school, I had always wanted to travel to Washington, D.C., to learn about our nation’s history. When my local electric co-op, SouthEastern Illinois Electric Cooperative (SEIEC), selected me to go on Youth Tour, I was beyond thrilled to be granted the opportunity to fulfill my dream. Little did I know that this opportunity would expand into so much more than I had ever imagined.
On the trip, I made many new friends and created memories that will last a lifetime. I took a chance and was thankfully elected by my fellow Youth Tour delegates to serve on the prestigious Youth Leadership Council (YLC).
My time on the YLC has been one of personal growth and professional development. From the moment I stepped on the bus for Youth Tour until now, I completely changed. I have learned how to be a confident leader, purposeful speaker and faithful representative for my peers. One of the biggest takeaways is the knowledge of the purpose and commitment that electric cooperatives have in our communities. They are essential to the areas they serve and work tirelessly to improve the lives of their members. This mission is what allows programs such as Youth Tour to thrive. Because of the program, I made many memories and found a deeper sense of purpose.
In the months following being elected the Illinois representative, I was tasked with several duties. In August, I attended the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives annual meeting and addressed cooperative leaders across the state about the importance of youth programs.
In October, I wrote an article to bring awareness to the vital work of cooperatives in celebration of Cooperative Month. In December, I addressed the SEIEC Board of Trustees. Then, in March, my official duties as the YLC concluded with my attendance at the 2025 NRECA PowerXChange and TechAdvantage conference held in Atlanta, Ga.
Throughout my tenure, I formed friendships with individuals from all across the U.S. We were all brought together by a shared appreciation for the work that electric cooperatives do daily.
I am beyond thankful to have been a part of the Youth Leadership Council. My experiences would not have been possible without a dream and a blessing from my local cooperative. Thank you to those in my life who supported me along my cooperative journey, especially my mom and dad. I look forward to using this experience to serve others and one day help fight for the future of electric cooperatives.
