From Camp to Confidence: Hear From Student Leaders

What does leadership really look like? According to students who attended Cooperative Leadership Camp, it starts with collaboration, listening, and community.

Recently, Four County EMC sat down with high school students Lily Powell and Dalene Maldonado after their return from Cooperative Leadership Camp in Raleigh. In the video interview, the students share what they learned, what surprised them, and why the experience made a lasting impact.

At camp, Lily and Dalene worked alongside students from across the state, learning how different leadership styles—both extroverted and introverted—can come together to achieve shared goals. Small-group activities encouraged teamwork, communication, and confidence, reinforcing that leadership isn’t about taking charge alone, but working together.

They also reflected on the inspiration they gained from cooperative leaders who helped lead the camp. Meeting professionals from cooperatives across North Carolina gave them powerful role models and a deeper understanding of how cooperatives invest in people and communities.

Thanks to scholarships from Four County EMC, Lily and Dalene were able to attend the camp and gain valuable leadership and life skills—an example of how cooperatives continue to support the next generation.

Watch the video below to hear Lily and Dalene share their experience in their own words—and learn why they recommend Cooperative Leadership Camp to other students looking to grow as leaders!