Leading with Purpose, Serving with Heart: 24-25 JA Year in Review

As another remarkable year draws to a close, the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation proudly recognizes the accomplishments of the 2024–2025 Junior Ambassadors. This outstanding group of Elberta and Foley high school students fully embraced each opportunity presented to them, growing as leaders, engaging with their community, and exploring meaningful career pathways.

The year began with an Opening Retreat at The Factory in Gulf Shores, where the students participated in team-building activities and completed leadership style surveys. This kickoff set the tone for a year filled with growth, collaboration, and discovery.

Throughout the program, the Junior Ambassadors took part in five impactful enrichment workshops.

During the Financial Literacy Workshop, SouthState Bank and Coastal Alabama Community College’s Adult Education & Workforce Development Team guided the students through smart budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. A highlight of the session was the “Game of Life,” a hands-on simulation that allowed students to navigate real-world financial scenarios.

On Healthcare Day, students toured Baldwin Health and Camellia Dermatology. They explored various hospital departments and learned about the wide array of healthcare roles, from nurses and radiology technicians to administrators and surgical teams. At Camellia Dermatology, a behind-the-scenes tour introduced them to the importance of skincare and the various professionals who support a dermatology practice.

During Media Day, the group traveled to Mobile for tours of WKRG News 5 and the iHeartRadio studios. At WKRG, students met with staff from the journalism and communications departments, explored marketing strategies, learned about internship opportunities, and even participated in a live broadcast. The tour of iHeartRadio, hosted by Mary Booth of Lite Mix 99.9 and Uncle Henry of 95KSJ, offered valuable insights into radio production, programming, and the creative energy that powers the local airwaves.

A powerful trip to Montgomery further enriched the program. The students visited the Alabama State House of Representatives, where they observed the passage of legislation and met with Representatives Frances Holk-Jones, Donna Givens, Jenifer Fidler, and Alan Baker to discuss civic involvement. Their visit continued with a behind-the-scenes look at the Heflin-Torbert Judicial Building. It concluded with a moving experience at the Legacy Museum, where they explored Alabama’s complex civil rights history.

Beyond these workshops, the Junior Ambassadors served their community by volunteering at seven signature events, including the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, Christmas in the Park, the Magnolia Run, and more. These experiences deepened their connection to the local community and instilled a strong sense of civic responsibility.

As the 2024–2025 Junior Ambassador Program concludes, the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation extends heartfelt congratulations to each participant. These young leaders have made a lasting impact and leave the program more informed, engaged, and inspired.

We encourage our graduates, as they move on to college and eventually enter the workforce, to consider returning to our community—or wherever they choose to plant themselves—and seek out their local Chamber of Commerce. Programs like the Chamber Diplomats and Young Professionals groups offer incredible opportunities to connect with the business community, grow professionally, and continue giving back through meaningful volunteer engagement. Staying involved locally ensures that leadership, service, and community connection remain lifelong priorities.

Looking to the future, the Foundation is excited to begin reviewing applications and interviewing candidates this summer for the next class of Junior Ambassadors.

A sincere thank you goes out to the local businesses and professionals who graciously opened their doors, hosted tours, and served as guest speakers throughout the year. Your willingness to share your time, expertise, and work environments made a lasting impact on these future leaders.

2024-2025 Program Sponsors include: City of Foley, Ascend Performance Materials, Riviera Utilities, Columbia Southern University, Dennis Aluminum Products, Baldwin EMC, and The Factory in Gulf Shores. Your support made this year’s experiences possible and continues to help shape the next generation of community-minded leaders.