David Barbier, a junior at Monsignor Edward Pace High School, was one of over 450 students from around the globe to attend the annual Hugh O’ Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) World Congress this summer.
The HOBY organization was founded in 1958 by American actor Hugh O’Brian in an effort to help in "training and nurturing the young leaders of tomorrow."
In the spring, David, a sophomore at the time, and an active member of Pace’s Student Ambassador Society, National Honors Society and Class of 2019 Student Government president, was one of two students chosen to represent the school at HOBY’s regional seminar at Lynn University in Boca Raton. Participation in the regional seminar made him an eligible candidate to attend the World Leadership Conference.
This year’s WLC took place from July 22-29 at Chicago’s Loyola University. Throughout the eight-day conference Barbier was able to engage with influential thought-leaders from across various fields such as volunteerism, media, education, philanthropy, and politics. In addition, he had the opportunity to work in smaller groups with other students and to participate in service oriented activities within the Chicago area.
It was an unforgettable experience for David and one that will have an impact on his personal leadership skills throughout his life.