Confidence can open doors, and knowing how to navigate new environments can help young people walk through them.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA) brought back its Youth Leadership Etiquette Dinner program for the first time in more than a decade, giving 24 Club teens an opportunity to develop practical skills, build confidence, and experience an evening of professional dining in a welcoming setting.
Made possible through the leadership of BGCAA Board Member Brian Jones and in partnership with Board Member Sean Kelly and Fortitude Advisors, the special evening took place at The Kimberly in downtown Austin. Etiquette expert Dr. Sharon Schweitzer guided teens through a four-course dining experience, offering hands-on instruction in dining etiquette, professional presentation and the social skills that can help them feel comfortable and prepared in formal settings.
For many young people, opportunities to attend professional dinners, business gatherings and other formal events may be unfamiliar. The Youth Leadership Etiquette Dinner created a welcoming space for teens to ask questions, practice new skills and learn by doing. From navigating a multi-course meal and understanding table manners to communicating with confidence and making a positive first impression, participants gained tools they can carry into a variety of future experiences.
Just as meaningful were the personal connections made throughout the evening. Brian Jones and Sean Kelly shared stories from their own journeys, from their humble beginnings to navigating business relationships and professional settings. Their openness helped create an atmosphere where teens felt welcomed, encouraged, and comfortable stepping outside their everyday routines. These conversations reinforced an important message: confidence in new environments comes with experience, and every young person deserves opportunities to develop the skills to navigate them.
Each participant received a certificate of completion in recognition of their participation and the skills they practiced throughout the evening.
For Club teen Nicole, a student at Navarro High School, the experience was both enjoyable and meaningful.
“I really enjoyed the etiquette dinner because it was a great learning experience. It taught me how to present myself, use proper table manners, and act professionally in formal settings. I think this experience was important because these are life skills that will help us in the future, whether we’re attending professional dinners, job interviews, or special events. It also helped us feel more confident and prepared for new opportunities.”
Nicole’s reflection captures why this evening mattered. Preparing young people for the future takes more than academic success. It means exposing them to new environments, strengthening their interpersonal skills, and giving them space to practice. Experiences like the Youth Leadership Etiquette Dinner give teens practical tools they can carry into every academic, professional, and personal setting.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area, that growth happens every day, and the numbers show it:
93% of Club members say they have opportunities to explore new things at the Club, and 94% say the adults at the Club encourage them to do their best.
Whether they are exploring a new interest, building a skill or learning from a trusted mentor, Club members grow in ways that reach far beyond the Club. We are committed to expanding these opportunities for teens: by 2030, our goal is for teens to represent 40% of our overall membership. Getting there means continuing to create relevant programming and leadership opportunities that prepare teens for life beyond high school.
Thank you to Brian Jones, Sean Kelly and Fortitude Advisors, and Dr. Sharon Schweitzer for investing their time, knowledge and encouragement in our teens. Because of them, Club members left with an experience they will carry well beyond the dinner table.
Because great futures start here, with opportunities that help young people discover their potential and step confidently into what’s next.
