Washington Youth Tour

WASHINGTON YOUTH TOUR

Embark on a transformative journey with the Washington Youth Tour! Each year, high school students from Georgia are selected by EMCs to represent their state in an unparalleled exploration of our nation's capital. This prestigious tour offers much more than sightseeing; it's a gateway to leadership development, meaningful connections with state and national leaders, and unforgettable experiences at iconic landmarks. Join us as we delve into the heart of American history, ignite passions for leadership, and create memories that last a lifetime. Discover the Washington Youth Tour – where inspiration meets opportunity!

MEET THE 2026 ALTAMAHA EMC DELEGATES

Mekhia Bell

Matthew Peters

Jean Peterson

Mekhia Bell, is a senior at Robert Toombs Christian Academy and the daughter of Stephanie Nails and Muriel Bell. She plans to pursue a degree in neuroscience with the goal of becoming a doctor. During her time at RTCA, Mekhia has been actively involved in numerous school and community organizations, including track and field, soccer, archery, FCA, Chess Club, Student Government Association, and the National Honor Society. She has also competed in Literary events in extemporaneous speaking and impromptu speaking. Beyond school, Mekhia serves on the Meadows Youth Leadership Board, the People's Bank Youth Leadership Board, and is a participant in Greater Vidalia Youth Leadership, demonstrating her strong commitment to leadership and community involvement.

Matthew Peters is a senior at Vidalia High School and the son of Coertze and Helen Peters. He plans to study aviation science and management in hopes of becoming a corporate pilot. Matthew is an active member of the Sound Tribe band, where he has served as Low Brass Captain and Drum Major, and he has also participated in Honor Band. In addition, he is involved in BETA Club and One Act, where he was part of the 1A State Championship team in 2024. Outside of school, Matthew is heavily involved in Boy Scouts of America, where he has served as Patrol Leader and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in March of this year.

Jean Peterson is a senior at Toombs County High School and the daughter of Tom and Letty Peterson. She is actively involved in several student organizations, including FBLA, where she has served as Vice President and a Region Officer, and FCCLA, where she also serves as Vice President. Jean is a member of the Student Advisory Committee and Student Council, and she received the UGA Merit Award during her junior year. She has also gained valuable experience through an internship with the City of Lyons and has been involved with YMCA Camp High Harbour, where she served as a counselor. Jean plans to pursue a career in environmental science or political science.

Altamaha EMC’s Washington Youth Tour delegates are carefully selected through a rigorous application process. Any junior or senior who attends a high school in the cooperative’s seven-county territory is eligible. School counselors from our seven-county territory nominate students for the Washington Youth Tour. The nominated students are first brought in for a preliminary round of interviews with our Washington Youth Tour coordinator. Candidates will then move on to the final round of interviews in front of a panel of judges from three different electric membership cooperatives in the state. The top three students are then selected by our Washington Youth Tour director and judges to represent Altamaha EMC on the Youth Tour.

All high school juniors and seniors interested in the opportunity can obtain information by contacting our Washington Youth Tour Coordinator, Will NeSmith..

Will NeSmith
Altamaha EMC
PO Box 346 - Lyons, GA 30436
(912) 526-2173
will.nesmith@altamahaemc.com

Each year, Altamaha EMC selects three local students to represent our cooperative on the Washington Youth Tour.

All high school juniors and seniors interested in the opportunity can obtain information by contacting our Washington Youth Tour Coordinator, Will Nesmith. He can be reached at 912-526-2173 or by email at: will.nesmith@altamahaemc.com.

Washington National Cathedral WYT 2019