GeorgiaForward has announced the newest class of participants for its nationally recognized Young Gamechangers program, continuing a tradition of cultivating Georgia’s next generation of civic and community leaders.
For the upcoming program year, participants will focus their efforts on Hinesville-Liberty County, where they will spend several months studying local opportunities and challenges and developing practical, forward-thinking solutions designed to support long-term community growth.
Hinesville Mayor Karl Riles expressed excitement about the opportunity to host the program and collaborate with emerging leaders from across the state.
“Hosting the Young Gamechangers cohort is an exciting opportunity for Hinesville. The collaboration between community leaders, residents and these talented young professionals will help us evaluate challenges, identify solutions and strengthen our vision for the future.”
Local community partners also play a key role in shaping the program’s success by working closely with participants and sharing insights into the community’s goals and priorities.
“The Young Gamechangers program allows us to think creatively about our future while connecting with professionals who bring new energy and statewide perspective. We anticipate this cohort will help spark ideas and partnerships and deliver actionable solutions that support our workforce, economy and overall quality of life in ways that benefit us all long after the program,” said Brynn Bryant, chief executive officer of the Liberty County Development Authority.
GeorgiaForward’s Young Gamechangers program is widely recognized as a signature leadership initiative. The immersive experience blends leadership development with hands-on community and economic development work. Participants gain valuable skills in collaboration, strategic planning and civic engagement while working directly with local stakeholders.
Sadie Krawczyk, managing director of GeorgiaForward, highlighted the program’s continued impact on both participants and host communities across the state.
“Young Gamechangers is about developing leaders who are committed to making a meaningful impact in Georgia’s communities. By bringing together multiple perspectives and encouraging collaboration, we help participants build skills that benefit both their professional growth and the communities we serve.”
Throughout the program, host communities present participants with pressing challenges that impact economic development, quality of life and long-term sustainability. Participants work collaboratively to develop comprehensive recommendations, often referred to as “big ideas,” that include potential funding strategies, implementation timelines and partnership opportunities.
The program is intentionally structured to reflect Georgia’s geographic and professional diversity. Each cohort typically includes one-third of participants from the host community, one-third from metro Atlanta, and one-third from other regions of the state, ensuring a wide range of perspectives on community development strategies.
Since its inception, Young Gamechangers has supported numerous communities across Georgia by providing actionable strategies and fresh perspectives on complex local challenges. Many host communities have successfully implemented recommendations developed through the program, demonstrating its lasting impact on economic development and civic leadership.
As the newest cohort prepares to begin its journey, GeorgiaForward leaders and community partners are optimistic about the ideas, innovation, and collaborative energy participants will bring to the Hinesville-Liberty County area and communities throughout Georgia.
2026 Young Gamechangers Cohort
This year’s cohort includes the following emerging leaders from across Georgia:
- Jerrel Baker
- Sarah Balance
- Mollie Bogle
- Jesse Branch
- Tyler Brewton
- RenQuista Brooks
- Jared Brown
- Queenie Brown
- Curtis Coates
- Alfred Dixon
- Mikia Frazier
- Samantha Grant
- Hector Gutierrez
- Jared Guyer
- Kimberly Hardin
- Shauntay Harris
- Carissa Hendricks
- Tiffany Hill
- Rebekah Hollar
- Kendra Ivy
- Joanna Jackson
- Bruce James II
- Danielle Jefferson
- Arin Johnson
- Anijah Jones
- Eric Jones
- Kia Monique Jones
- Shirka Jordan
- Atiyah Kennedy
- Delaney Lann
- Jessica Lawrence
- Donovan McKelvey
- Amanda McManus
- Candice Millsap-Eaton
- Mercy Montgomery
- Chad Nash
- Markie Oge
- Airelle Peters
- Cameron Riles
- Desiree Riley
- Kendra Rolle
- Xandria Shields
- Henry Smith
- Moses Tanyi
- Xavier Walker
- Dana Watson-Green
- Elliott Wilson