The Youth Leadership Movement is a year-long program designed to empower high school students with the tools, guidance, and opportunities they need to succeed. More than just an academic initiative, this program takes a holistic approach to growth—supporting students academically, personally, and professionally as they prepare for life after graduation.
Email application to Alexandria.Andrade@CDCofTampa.org
Participants in the program will:
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Stay on track academically with resources and support to earn their high school diplomas.
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Plan for the future through college preparation, career exploration, and occupational training opportunities.
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Build workforce readiness with hands-on training, mentorship, and career development workshops.
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Gain life skills that encourage leadership, responsibility, and self-confidence.
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Connect with mentors and community leaders who provide encouragement and real-world insight.
Our goal is to help each student discover their strengths, define their goals, and achieve a path to long-term self-sufficiency. By the end of the program, students will be better prepared to pursue higher education, begin a career, or step into leadership roles within their communities.
This movement is more than a program—it’s a commitment to shaping tomorrow’s leaders and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Malachi Brown is a dedicated and ambitious senior at Middleton High School in boasting an impressive 7.0 GPA. He holds the dual roles of President for both the Thurgood Marshall History Club and the Senior Class, while also representing his fellow students on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council. As an enrolled student in the cybersecurity magnet program, Malachi merges his enthusiasm for technology with leadership, community service, and academic excellence.
He has accrued multiple certifications in cybersecurity and sales and has successfully led his Future Business Leaders of America Digital Animation team to secure four consecutive first-place victories in Hillsborough County. Additionally, Malachi captains Middleton’s Black History Brain Bowl team, which has qualified for the finals for two consecutive years. He is also an active participant in CDC of Tampa’s Youth Leadership Movement, serving as an ambassador.
Malachi harbors a fervent interest in pursuing a career at the crossroads of business, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. He is set to attend the esteemed North Carolina Agricultural & Technological State University, where he will be part of the Deese College of Business & Economics as a Lewis and Elizabeth Dowdy Scholar. His aspiration is to establish his own company dedicated to safeguarding the digital lives of underserved communities, particularly in East Tampa. Malachi aims to leverage his voice and skills to ignite change, empower others, and foster a more secure and equitable digital future.
Malachi has also been accepted to several other prestigious institutions, including Hampton University, Howard University, Florida A&M University, and Morehouse College. His scholarships include those from the MLK Parade Foundation, Middleton High School Alumni, Bailey Family Foundation, Artist Pa’jon Foundation, Omega Pi Iota, Joshua Way of Hope, Ivy Enrichment, and the Kevin Knox Foundation.
“To me, community service holds great significance because if we do not support each other, who will? It is our responsibility to protect and provide for our communities, ensuring their growth and well-being.”
When Austin Pierre initially became a part of CDC of Tampa’s Youth Leadership Movement, he was not the kind of person who would seek the limelight. Reserved and introverted, he preferred to stay within a tight-knit group of friends and seldom ventured beyond his familiar boundaries. However, everything began to transform the day he attended his first CDC session.
In his sophomore year, Austin made a bold choice to join his school’s marching band program—a decision that would mark a significant milestone in his high school journey. Through CDC of Tampa YLM’s engaging workshops, collaborative team challenges, community service projects, and the guidance of inspiring mentors, Austin began to evolve. With each session, his confidence grew. He discovered that leadership wasn't merely about being the loudest voice; it involved listening, offering support, stepping forward, and taking decisive action when it truly mattered.
By the time he reached his junior year, Austin had been appointed the baritone section leader. The once-quiet sophomore had now taken on the responsibility of leading sectional rehearsals, mentoring younger members, and ensuring his team's cohesion and strength during performances and competitions. Austin's unwavering commitment to leadership and his community did not go unnoticed. He was honored with the 2025 Community Impact Award from the CDC of Tampa and received a scholarship of $500.
From marching in unison to mentoring his peers, Austin's journey demonstrates that with the right support and encouragement, young people can unlock their potential in extraordinary ways.
"Without CDC I wouldn't have felt prepared to lead. That program provided me with the confidence to grow—not only as a leader but also as an individual. This fall, I will begin a new chapter as a freshman at Valencia College, where I will pursue a degree in Cyber Security."
Fore more information contact
Alexandria Andrade
