What a Leader (W.A.L.) is an exciting training curriculum and youth competition offered by Jacksonville Arts & Music School (JAMS). WAL officially launched in 2021 to promote early professional development. The program allows students to learn and participate in real-world activities enriched with challenges that cultivate essential leadership skills.

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The Aspen Leadership Development Index reports that fewer than 32% of U.S. youth receive impactful leadership training before the age of 25, and fewer than 16% of those with access to leadership development experiences will have a demonstrable impact by age 25. WAL aims to address this significant opportunity gap by facilitating intentional strategies through co-curricular involvement. Emphasis on public policy, urban development, entrepreneurship, media, arts, and technology allows for intersecting discussions of creative and critical thought. 

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We believe any student can maximize their talent, skill, and leadership potential with cultivation, collective accountability, and encouragement. A strategic focus on collaborating with the community, organizations, and businesses helps to develop sustainable relationships between youth and prominent leaders from both public and private sectors to establish this ecosystem.