GeorgiaForward, in partnership with the Georgia Municipal Association, is pleased to announce the 2026 Youth Forum, a transformative leadership and civic engagement event designed for youth councils and young leaders from across the state. The forum will be held March 20-22, 2026 at the Georgia Municipal Association’s headquarters in downtown Atlanta.
The 2026 Youth Forum provides an exciting opportunity for high school students and youth council members to connect, learn, and develop the leadership skills necessary to make a positive impact in their communities. Participants will engage in workshops, interactive leadership simulations, team-building activities, and collaborative discussions that highlight the importance of civic engagement and local governance.
“We are excited to welcome youth councils from across Georgia who are stepping up to lead and serve in their communities at this year’s Youth Forum,” said Sadie Krawczyk, Managing Director of GeorgiaForward. “This event equips young people with practical skills, encourages thoughtful civic participation, and fosters meaningful connections that will strengthen communities statewide.”
What to Expect:
- Interactive Workshops: Hands-on activities focused on leadership development, policy understanding, and community engagement.
- Networking & Peer Collaboration: A chance for youth councils to share accomplishments and build relationships with peers from other communities.
- Team-Building Events: Guided exercises and social events to build teamwork and confidence.
- Optional Capitol Visit: On Monday, March 23, pre-registered participants will have the opportunity to visit the Georgia State Capitol for a civic learning experience.
About GeorgiaForward: GeorgiaForward is a convener, connector, and unifier. We exist to unite our state, strengthen communities, and create a talent pipeline within Georgia. GeorgiaForward engages young professionals with leaders in civics, industry, government, academia, and the media to find a common vision for Georgia. The nonprofit organization, which is administered by the Georgia Municipal Association, accomplishes this by creating an environment in which vision and pragmatism can overcome political deadlock, fostering communication and goodwill among Georgia’s stakeholders, and seeking innovative solutions to Georgia’s biggest challenges. To learn more about GeorgiaForward visit georgiaforward.org.
About the Georgia Municipal Association: Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to all of Georgia’s 536 cities. GMA anticipates and influences the forces shaping Georgia’s cities and to provide leadership, tools and services that assist municipal governments in becoming more innovative, effective and responsive. Created in 1933, the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) is the only state organization that represents municipal governments in Georgia. For more information, visit www.gacities.com
