The Leadership Shelby County Opening Retreat, held on September 10-11 at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana, provided the perfect platform for the class of 2025 to get acquainted and build lasting relationships. Through a series of team-building exercises and informative sessions, the participants were able to forge a strong bond, setting the foundation for a year of collaborative learning and community impact."This class came in already having this bond and connection I haven't seen in years past," remarked Kendall Williams, the executive director of Leadership Shelby County. "It was really interesting to watch them already be connected in some way, right out of the gate."The retreat's activities, which ranged from guest speaker presentations to small-group exercises and on-site challenges, were designed to encourage participants to engage with one another, share their experiences, and develop a deeper understanding of the program's core concepts.
The Leadership Shelby County class of 2025 represents a diverse tapestry of individuals, each bringing their unique perspectives, skills, and backgrounds to the table. This diversity is seen as a strength, as it fosters a rich exchange of ideas and a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of the local community."Every year brings a new excitement of new personalities, new stories, new backgrounds," Williams said. "We're just excited to see what the class of 2025 brings, not just to this year but going beyond and how they might actually become the best class ever."
The Leadership Shelby County program is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to become effective leaders in their respective communities. Through a series of lessons and workshops, the class of 2025 will delve into various aspects of the county, including local government, education, law enforcement, and health and community services."(The ultimate goal is) to equip all of these leaders with information and to inspire them and empower them to go into their own communities and make change if change is needed," Williams explained.As the program celebrates its 30th anniversary, the class of 2025 marks a significant milestone, representing the continued commitment to developing the next generation of community leaders.
The Leadership Shelby County class of 2025 has already demonstrated a remarkable level of camaraderie and dedication, setting the stage for a year of transformative growth and impactful initiatives. With their newfound connections and the knowledge they will gain throughout the program, these emerging leaders are poised to make a lasting difference in their communities."We're just excited to see what the class of 2025 brings, not just to this year but going beyond and how they might actually become the best class ever," Williams said, reflecting the high expectations and optimism surrounding this exceptional group of individuals.As the Leadership Shelby County class of 2025 embarks on their journey, the community eagerly awaits the positive ripples they will create, inspiring others and paving the way for a brighter future.