Zanyya Gibbs, a Woodland High School student, was recently among 29 high school students from across the region who graduated from the Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC) youth leadership program.

“I commend the work and collaboration these young leaders put into the MARC program,” said Kerry Armstrong, ARC board chair. “The insights they bring to the challenges facing our region are refreshing, and make me feel optimistic about our future.”

MARC students explored real-world issues such as housing affordability, responsible water usage, and the impact of limited transportation options as part of the six-month program. They spoke with local changemakers about equity and resilience and offered their own reflections on ways we as a region can better serve our diverse population.

While the 2020-2021 program was moved online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students were also invited to participate in self-guided activities such as a walkability audit of their neighborhoods.

“MARC really opened my eyes to the complexity of regional planning and how it can be used to improve people’s lives in myriad ways,” said Nicolas Miranda, a student at Harvester Christian Academy. “It’s very worthwhile if you want to learn why metro Atlanta has the problems it does and consider what we can do to alleviate them.”

The MARC program is accepting applications for the 2021-22 class through June 4.

Learn more at www.atlantaregional.org/marc.