Programs at HOBY
Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership provides lifelong leadership development opportunities that empower individuals to achieve their highest potential.
Community Leadership Workshops (CLeWs)
The Community Leadership Workshop (CLeW) is a one-day introductory HOBY leadership training for high school freshmen. CLeWs provide face-to-face interaction between freshmen students and distinguished leaders from all walks of life. Students participate in team-building activities, take part in community service projects, and listen to presentations given by motivational speakers and local community leaders. CLeWs are initiated and organized by HOBY’s own alumni and/or members of the community, and are sponsored by local service clubs or companies. High schools are invited directly by the planning committees to select freshmen students to attend. The number of schools and students invited to participate in a given CLeW is determined by the committee.
Plan a CLeW in your community »
U.S. State Leadership Seminars
Known as HOBY’s flagship program, the Leadership Seminar is designed for high school sophomores to recognize their leadership talents and apply them in becoming effective, ethical leaders in their home, schools, workplace and community. The high level of energy, encouragement and motivation as well as the interaction with peers, panelists and volunteers are important elements in nurturing the students’ future leadership roles.
In addition, students participate in hands-on leadership activities and meet state leaders in such as areas as business, government, education, media and the non-profit sector. There are approximately 70 Leadership Seminars held each spring throughout the United States. Local volunteer committees plan, organize and run these three-or four-day seminars, and also raise the funds to pay for program expenses. Each September, every accredited public, private and charter high school in the country is invited to select and register an outstanding sophomore as their representative to their local state seminar. Currently, nearly 9,000 sophomores, representing as many high schools nationwide, attend HOBY Leadership Seminars annually. Participants need not have attended a CLeW to attend a Leadership Seminar.
Learn more about this spring’s seminar schedule »
World Leadership Congress (WLC)
Upon completing a Leadership Seminar, U.S. high school sophomores have the opportunity to advance to HOBY’s next level of leadership programs known as the World Leadership Congress (WLC). The WLC is HOBY’s oldest program and the only one open to international students aged 15-17. The week-long intensive educational program is held every summer in Washington, D.C. and brings together youth with demonstrated leadership potential to interact with accomplished professionals and influential leaders. Each year, approximately 400 students representing 20 countries attend this unique international program comprised of speakers’ panels, interactive workshops, field trips, and more. HOBY’s student ambassadors emerge from the WLC more mature individuals, cognoscente of the world around them, and ready to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Learn more about the WLC »
Alumni Chapters & Clubs
Alumni of any of HOBY’s programs also have the opportunity to continue their leadership and volunteer experiences through a network of local HOBY Alumni Chapters. Through on-going community service, instructional workshops and fellowship activities, HOBY alumni are able to maintain their educational and leadership growth. Alumni programs are developed and executed by the alumni, with guidance from experienced HOBY volunteers. Many alumni also return to HOBY to volunteer as leaders in developing and planning the Leadership Seminars, WLC and CLeWs.
Learn more about alumni opportunities »