Step into the boardroom before you even graduate! Fresno County high schoolers who want to learn about business and leadership while serving their community can apply now for the Fresno Chamber of Commerce Junior Board.

The Junior Board, presented by Me-n-Ed’s, empowers students to sharpen leadership skills, promote local economic growth, and create positive change in their community.

Members dive into hands-on leadership experiences like running meetings, practicing public speaking, and making group decisions.

Each monthly meeting focuses on a different topic including agriculture, politics, and medicine. Professionals from each industry speak to the group, sharing insider knowledge and real-world perspectives. Some lessons include field trips, like touring Chukchansi Park to learn about sports business operations.

Students also give back through volunteer work. Last year’s board spruced up Storyland, Fresno’s fairytale park.

Arleen Samra, a recent University High School graduate and incoming UC Irvine freshman, joined the Junior Board in 2022-23 as a member. She later became secretary, then president.

“You learn to be in a professional setting, which I feel like in school you aren’t really able to learn,” she said.

The program also opens doors, Samra said. “You’re able to get a lot of those leadership connections and then also volunteer service. Taking advantage of those connections and networking with people will take you far in life.”

The program is open to Fresno County high school students ages 14–19. It runs from September through May, with meetings on the fourth Monday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Chamber office.

New applicants and returning members can apply here through Sept. 5.

For more updates on Fresno County development and business initiatives, stay connected with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce.