The Current

Transportation news from around the region. 

Youth Leadership Academy Graduates Largest Class of Future Leaders

Post Date:07/08/2026

In its eighth year, SACOG’s Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) celebrated a new record, with 43 students completing the 2026 program. The graduation ceremony took place at Aggie Square in Sacramento, where students heard from young leaders and met with several local organizations to learn how they can be further involved and apply their skills.

“It is incredible to see how students take on topics like what shapes where we live, how we get around efficiently and safely, or how to create equitable communities, and lean-in to understand how they can have a big impact on the shape of their communities,” said Rosie Ramos, program manager for YLA. “I’m inspired by growth of the program, and I can’t wait to see how these young leaders apply their new knowledge.”

Learning, Leadership, and Exploration

Students in classroom, one student presenting to the others in front of the class.

Each year, students get hands-on coaching as they explore their top five strengths by Gallup StrengthsFinder. It’s an opportunity for students to understand more about their leadership styles, and how to collaborate with others with different strengths.

Students gathered in group around water display at MOSAC museum.

This year, the program also included a visit to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District’s Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC). Students learned more about critical infrastructure like water and power needs, and how cities and counties get services to residents.

Group of students posing for photo under a tree outside

In addition, students got hands-on exploration of the economic role agriculture plays in our region and how planning takes into consideration urban and rural needs.

Congratulations to these passionate young leaders on completing YLA! Special thanks to SMUD, the program’s sponsor.

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