Amelia Cook represents CA

By Courtney Warren

Recently, Canton Academy junior Amelia Rose Cook attended the 2023 HOBY Youth Leadership Conference at Mississippi College. 

“HOBY is something that I’ll never forget. I met so many people that I’ll keep as friends forever. We listened to multiple different speakers, getting to see from their perspective what being a community leader in different situations is like. We participated in many local service opportunities where my group was in charge of getting to paint a house!” said Cook. 

“We were challenged and played many games to encourage and build each other up. I was honored to represent my group in one of the challenges. HOBY challenged me to continue to pursue opportunities to serve my community. Community service not only betters my community but helps me grow as a community member that looks out for the needs of others. I’m so honored to have represented my school this year. HOBY impacted me so much, and I’ll cherish the many different ways I got to grow as a leader,” said Cook. 

Founded in 1958, Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) focuses on youth that live out a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation. HOBY’s leadership development programs “empower high school students to become dynamic leaders and lead lasting change in the world.” HOBY stresses volunteerism, integrity, excellence, diversity, and community partnership. Emphasizing these key organizational values, one student is selected to represent their school at this conference. Students selected demonstrate an interest in volunteering and community service, all of which are of interest to colleges.