What happens — to a democracy, to a workforce, to a culture — when young people don’t see themselves as leaders early on? Where are we underinvesting in the next generation right now — not just financially, but in trust, responsibility, and voice? What gives you hope when you look at young people today?
These were just some of the questions addressed when PeerForward recently convened thought leaders across the public and private sectors in Washington D.C. for an insightful discussion about the importance of youth leadership, particularly in today’s divisive political and social climate.
Some were College Summit/PeerForward Alumni and were already familiar with our unique method of youth activation. Others were hearing about it for the first time. All agreed on the need to support and inspire the next generation into becoming strong, inclusive leaders.
Hosted in the beautiful home of Kinney Zalesne, former College Summit President and General Counsel, the evening centered on a fireside chat between Jaime Harrison, former Chair of the DNC and College Summit COO, and PeerForward CEO Gary Linnen – both the first in their families to attend college. They each shared how their lives were changed by key people seeing something in them early on and investing in their journeys.
They discussed PeerForward’s unique method of nurturing and challenging young people to build the knowledge and skills necessary to lead (e.g., advocacy, communication, ability to influence without authority). Jaime noted how young people bring a level of fearlessness, energy, and creativity that allows them to push on the status quo. In fact, he noted, “When you think about every major change that has happened in this country, from the formation of the county to the civil rights movement, it’s happened because of young people!” They want to roll up their sleeves and build some thing, and that’s exactly what PeerForward provides – the opportunity to take responsibility and lead their peers to successful futures.
Alum Kevin KAYR Robinson shared how being a Peer Leader and empowering his peers built his confidence and set the foundation for his success. Mentors and leaders like Jaime Harrison helped expand his vision early and showed him what strong leadership looks like in real time. He said, “PeerForward didn’t just prepare me for college — it sharpened my leadership, discipline, and long-term thinking. Programs like this don’t just impact students in the moment. They build leaders who multiply impact for decades.”
Gary wrapped the evening with a simple yet powerful statement: “PeerForward believes in young people. Let’s be sure we continue this important work – in D.C. and across our nation!”
