The tour began with an orientation and welcome dinner in Raleigh, where students met fellow delegates from across North Carolina, learned about the week ahead and heard inspiring speeches from Youth Leadership Council (YLC) candidates before celebrating the announcement of this year’s YLC representative.

From there, the group traveled to Washington, D.C., for an unforgettable week of leadership, learning and exploration. Students visited the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, toured the National Cathedral, explored several Smithsonian museums and cheered on the Washington Nationals during an evening at the ballpark.

Reflecting on the experience, Joanna Lee shared, “One of the things I was most excited about was meeting like-minded students from across the country and building meaningful connections that will last long after Youth Tour. I also hoped this experience would help me grow as a leader and prepare me for a future in public service by giving me opportunities to network and learn from others.”

The delegates also spent time on Capitol Hill, meeting with North Carolina legislators, touring the U.S. Capitol and taking in the significance of our nation’s government firsthand. Additional highlights included visiting Arlington National Cemetery, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, and many of Washington’s most iconic memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial and the Washington Monument. They also reflected on history during a visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

Beyond the educational experiences, students enjoyed memorable opportunities to connect with fellow delegates from across the country through a boat cruise on the Potomac River, cooperative networking events, an evening at Escapology and free time in National Harbor. The week provided lasting friendships, valuable leadership experiences and a deeper understanding of American history, government and the cooperative principles that brought them there.

Christopher Walters said the trip challenged him to grow both personally and professionally. “I was excited to step into a new environment, meet new people, and build connections with students from across the country. I hoped the experience would inspire me to achieve even more, open new opportunities, and help me grow as a leader.”

The Youth Tour is more than just a trip—it’s a celebration of civic engagement and the potential of young leaders. As they reflected on the experience, both delegates shared words of encouragement for future participants.

“Follow your dreams because they’re never too big,” Lee said. “Take risks, embrace every opportunity, and remember that life is truly what you make it.”

Walters echoed a similar message: “Believe in yourself, stay consistent, remain humble, and never stop chasing your dreams. And don’t forget to listen to your parents—they often see your potential before you do and want to help you succeed.”

Lumbee River EMC is proud to support opportunities like the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour that invest in the future of our communities by developing the next generation of leaders through education, service, and unforgettable experiences.