October is Co-op Month, making it the perfect time for our EMPOWER Youth Leadership students to dive into one of the key ways that sets Flint Energies—and other electric cooperatives—apart: the cooperative business model.
During this month’s session, students learned what makes co-ops unique and why the principles behind cooperatives continue to make such an impact in local communities. They explored how cooperatives are owned by their members, guided by shared values, and committed to serving their neighbors rather than maximizing profits.
The day began with an inspiring and heartfelt presentation from Blair Brown, who encouraged students to "defy gravity" in their own lives. Blair shared a message of resilience and courage, challenging students to push past fear and self-doubt to reach their fullest potential. Her words reminded everyone that leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it’s about having the bravery to rise above challenges and lead with authenticity.
After a day full of learning and collaboration, the session wrapped up with a hands-on activity where students worked in small groups to create their own cooperatives. Each team developed a business idea rooted in cooperative principles, then presented their concepts to the group. This creative exercise helped bring the co-op model to life, allowing students to see how teamwork, innovation, and shared ownership can make a real difference in their communities.
Flint Energies is proud to invest in the next generation of leaders through the EMPOWER Youth Leadership Program, which includes students from Crawford, Macon, Marion, Peach, Schley, Talbot, and Taylor Counties. Through experiences like these, students are learning not only about business and leadership—but also about the cooperative values that keep our communities strong.
As these young leaders continue to “defy gravity,” we can’t wait to see how they’ll use what they’ve learned to uplift and empower others across Middle and Southwest Georgia.
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