DEMCO has announced the selection of ten students to participate in its Youth Cooperative Ambassador Program (YCAP), an all-expenses-paid leadership and educational program for 9th and 10th-grade students.
The Class of 2026 YCAP student ambassadors are Jada Brown of Baker High School; Kylee Juarez of Central Private; Dedric Wallace of Glen Oaks Magnet High School; Rishawn Sanders of Liberty Magnet High School; Braylon Washington, Cirrus Guerrero, Danielle Welborn, and Tyson Burns of Walker High School; and Benjamin Klein Jr. and Leah Hugg of West Feliciana High School.
“As a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, one way we serve our communities is by developing future leaders who understand the value of service, responsibility, and local engagement,” said Randy Pierce, DEMCO chief executive officer and general manager.
The program introduces students to the cooperative business model and the seven cooperative principles that guide electric cooperatives, with an emphasis on leadership, democratic participation, informed decision-making, and concern for community.
“Through YCAP, students gain practical, hands-on leadership experience while learning how a cooperative works and why community involvement matters,” said Chanon Martin, DEMCO Community and Member Engagement Manager. “The program helps them build confidence, strengthen communication and problem-solving skills, and understand how they can use those skills to serve their schools and communities.”
Throughout the program, student ambassadors participate in workshops, seminars, and peer group activities and complete a community service project designed to reinforce leadership development and practical, real-world skills.
YCAP is one of several educational initiatives offered by DEMCO. The cooperative also sponsors an annual essay contest for 11th-grade students and a scholarship program for graduating seniors. To learn more about DEMCO Youth Programs visit DEMCO.org/Community.
Photo Caption: YCAP Class of 2026 Pictured with DEMCO CEO Randy Pierce and program coordinator, Rhowanda Vessel
Back Row L to R: Randy Pierce, Braylon Washington, Cirrus Guerrero, Dedric Wallace; Front Row L to R: Rishawn Sanders, Kylee Juarez, Jada Brown, Benjamin Klein Jr., Leah Hugg, Rhowanda Vessel; Not Pictured: Danielle Welborn, Tyson Burns
DEMCO is a locally owned electric cooperative with 120,000 meters and 9,234 miles of power line, serving members in seven parishes: Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Livingston, St. Helena, Tangipahoa, and West Feliciana.
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