Description:
Students across Montgomery County are organizing something different, and we want you to be part of it. "My Future" Candidate Forum is a youth-led civic event where students will run the entire program: moderating the discussion, introducing questions, and leading a conversation about the future they will inherit.
Samir Ahmed, candidate for The Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee and the youngest person to ever run for elected office, will emcee the event.
And the response has been incredible.
Over 60 elected officials and candidates have already RSVP’d to attend, from the federal to local offices.
This level of engagement is truly unprecedented for a local forum, and it’s happening because students are leading.
The concept is simple: Students ask the questions. Leaders respond. The community sees where they stand in real time.
This is your opportunity to make sure student voices are part of the conversation.
Please invite friends and family–There will be a 30 minute period before and after the candidate portion for attendees to mingle with all elected officials and candidates present.
Dinner will be provided.
Student Service Learning (SSL) Opportunities & Hours: Students may earn SSL hours through the following activities:
- Event Attendance & Participation (Forum & Discussion): 2 hours
- Event Setup Support: 1 hour
- Event Breakdown Support: 1 hour
- Planning Committee Participation: up to 3 hours
- Post-Event Debrief Participation: 1 hour
- Creation of a Reflection or Student Video: 1 hour
- Total SSL hours awarded will be based on verified participation and completion of activities.
How You Can Get Involved
1. Attend the Event - Gaithersburg High School Wednesday, May 6 7:00 PM
RSVP: Register Here Indicate on your form if you want to join the planning or volunteer committee.
RSVP deadline: Friday, April 26
2. Follow & Amplify Follow us on Instagram: @futurevoicesmoco
This is more than an event, it’s a movement, and we want you to be part of this powerful, student-led conversation.
Supervision & Safety: This event will take place in a supervised school setting with adult oversight. All student participation will occur in a structured and safe environment.
Privacy & Confidentiality: Students must not share personal identifying information (such as home address, phone number, or email) in any reflections or submissions. Students should include only their first name, grade, and school when submitting materials.
Parent/Guardian Consent: A parent or guardian must provide written consent prior to student participation.
Purpose: This activity qualifies for SSL hours as it promotes civic engagement, youth leadership, and community involvement. Students actively contribute to meaningful dialogue with public officials and participate in a student-led effort to elevate youth perspectives in local decision-making.
Facilitation & Coordination: The event is organized by a student planning committee with support from adult facilitators and community volunteers to ensure a productive and impactful experience.
Student participation in this service project is at the discretion of the student’s parent/guardian and must be completed outside of school hours in a public space under direct supervision of the nonprofit organization. The nonprofit organization is responsible for maintaining student safety. Parents/guardians should contact the nonprofit directly with any questions and/or concerns.
