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On Friday, the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce kicked off its annual Youth Leadership Institute.
The six-week program gives students the opportunity to learn directly from business leaders in the city. They practiced making a 30-second pitch to an investor after touring several small businesses and listening to a panel of local entrepreneurs.
Karen Pelletier, executive vice president of the Worcester Chamber, said the institute aims to mentor Worcester’s next generation of leaders.
“We wanted to make those doors open for those people where maybe it wasn’t normal,” Pelletier said. “Maybe they’re from another country and just moved here and don’t know anything about the city. Most of the time it’s just exposing them to an entry point and opportunity, but it’s so critical to our mission as a community to make sure we have representation and equal opportunity for everyone.”
Students are aged 15 to 21 years. They all participate in the YouthWorks employment program and are nominated by their bosses.
“The goal is simple – introduce Worcester’s young people to the myriad of businesses, leaders, mentors and opportunities available in their own communities,” said Chamber President Timothy Murray. “These students are our future leaders. We want them to know and understand that their community can offer them a unique college experience and exciting job opportunities, as well as provide insight and perspective on the city’s history, leadership, business community and government structure.”
The institute works from July 8 to August 12.
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