Photo: members of the 2025-2026 Youth Leadership Alliance
SEPTEMBER 16, 2026
CADDO PARISH YOUTH LEADERSHIP ALLIANCE ENTERS SECOND YEAR; APPLICATIONS REMAIN OPEN
Caddo Parish, LA – The Caddo Parish Commission is entering its second year of the Caddo Parish Youth Leadership Alliance (CPYLA), a youth-led council designed to empower high school students through leadership development, civic engagement, and a deeper understanding of local government.
The second year of the program will officially begin with its first session on Thursday, September 24, at 4:45pm in Government Plaza Chambers. Applications are still being accepted from eligible high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors attending public or private schools in Caddo Parish.
The CPYLA was established in 2024 following a recommendation from the Caddo Parish Commission’s Juvenile Justice Committee and approval by the Caddo Parish Commission. The initiative was championed by District 7 Commissioner Stormy Gage-Watts to create a meaningful opportunity for young people to learn about local government and have a voice in issues affecting their communities.
During the program’s inaugural year, students participated in leadership development activities, learned about the work of local government and worked directly with parish officials. As part of their experience, students also collaborated on a cohort project focused on engaging area youth. The group developed a plan for an event designed to bring young people together, create opportunities for connection and encourage greater youth involvement in their community.
“We saw firsthand during the first year of the Youth Leadership Alliance just how much young people have to contribute when they are given the opportunity to be involved,” said Caddo Commission President Stormy Gage-Watts. “This program gives students a chance to learn, ask questions, share their perspectives and develop the leadership skills they will carry with them long after they graduate. We are excited to welcome another group of students and continue building on the foundation established during our first year,” said Gage-Watts.
During the upcoming program year, students will interact directly with Caddo Parish Commissioners, Parish Administration and department heads to gain hands-on insight into how local government works. Members will also attend Commission meetings, participate in leadership development activities and community initiatives, and provide input on youth-related issues. The CPYLA convenes from September through May, with opportunities for additional planning and community engagement throughout the year. Each year, members elect a chairperson, vice-chairperson and secretary to help lead the council.
Students interested in participating in the second year of the Caddo Parish Youth Leadership Alliance are encouraged to apply. Applications remain open, and students are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible ahead of the September 24 session by emailing Valarie Jamison, Government Liaison Officer at vjamison@caddo.gov .
