45 Young Leaders Complete Groundbreaking Leadership Training
September 13, 2025 – The Grand Canyon Council celebrated a major milestone with the successful completion of the inaugural Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST) course. This innovative program which was identified as an absolute need through a volunteer leadership survey earlier this year, brought together 45 enthusiastic Scouts from across multiple councils, including participants from Las Vegas, demonstrating the program’s growing regional appeal.
A New Approach to Youth Leadership Development
Under the guidance of Course Director Stephanie Russell and her dynamic youth staff team, the ILST program reimagined traditional leadership training for today’s young leaders. The course featured a proven patrol-based structure with eight small groups, each mentored by experienced Troop Guides who are recent National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) graduates.
What set this program apart was its innovative curriculum design. Adhering to the latest curriculum from 2017, rather than lengthy lecture sessions, the training broke complex leadership concepts into engaging 10–20-minute interactive modules, keeping participants actively involved.
Outstanding Youth Leadership in Action
The program showcased exceptional youth leadership at every level. Senior Patrol Leader Vinni S. from Troop 3365 led the entire staff with remarkable skill and dedication.
“The enthusiasm and engagement we saw from participants was incredible,” noted one adult advisor. “These young people were truly learning from each other in a way that creates lasting impact.”
Looking Ahead
Based on this success, plans are already underway for the next ILST course in April 2026. The program will expand to accommodate even more young leaders eager to develop their skills and make a difference in their troops and communities.
The ILST Team extends appreciation to all participants, staff members, and supporting volunteers who made this inaugural program such a tremendous success. Special recognition goes to the dedicated youth staff who demonstrated that young people are indeed capable of leading transformational experiences for their peers.
For more information about upcoming ILST courses or other leadership development opportunities, contact the gcc.program@scoutingaz.org
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